St. John Lateran Ticket with Audio Guide
- Immerse yourself in the religious history and papal culture of St. John Lateran, the oldest church in the western world, and the entire complex.
- This consists of the Cloister, the Baptistery, the Holy Stairs (Scala Santa), and its Sancta Sanctorum chapel.
- Explore this sacred location at your own pace with an informative audio guide available in English, French, Spanish, German, and Italian.
- The St. John Lateran Basilica has a history dating back to early Christianity and was also where the Pope lived up to the XIV century.
- Take note of the extraordinary details and Gothic architecture of the church, especially the 7-meter tall statue of Jesus – with the saints by his side – at the entrance, and the interior symbolic paintings of the Paleo-Christian tradition.
- The Cloister is the widest in the city at 36-meters on each side. The gilded marble columns were carved by the most talented stonemasons of Rome – the Vassallettos.
- Originally a place for monks to rest, pray, and meditate – feel the calm energy of this 800-year-old structure as you continue your self-guided tour.
- The Baptistery is next with its iconic dome and two-tier colonnade. Look out for faded mosaic decorations and frescoes, and art left by artists such as Carlo Rainaldi (the altar), and Luigi Valadier (the statue of St. John Baptiste).
- The Scala Santa or ‘Holy Stairs’ are extremely revered by worshippers who only climb up the stairs strictly on their knees.
- Legend has it that these 28 marble steps were the stairs that Jesus climbed upon to Pontius Pilate’s office during his trial.
- The Sancta Sanctorum chapel is considered to be one of the holiest Christian spaces and holds ancient relics including an ancient image of Jesus the Saviour holding the New Testament.
- Face masks are mandatory.
- Both male and female visitors must follow an appropriate dress code wearing clothes that cover both shoulders and knees and no hats/caps.
- To make the best of this 2-hour experience, start with the Basilica and the Cloister, and the Treasure Museum. Then proceed to the Baptistery located in the square behind.
- Complete your tour by visiting the Holy Stairs and admiring the Chapel of the Sancta Sanctorum.
- If you only have 1 hour, visit just the Basilica and its Cloister first, followed by the Holy Stairs and Sancta Sanctorum.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Visiting Archbasilica of St. John Lateran, Rome’s Oldest Basilica
Known as the ‘Mother Church of the Whole World’ among Catholics, the Archbasilica of St. John Lateran is the oldest of Rome’s four major Papal Basilicas and functioned as the official seat of the Pope until 1870. Its rich historicity, magnificent architecture, and sacrilegious importance attract hundreds of thousands of visitors each year. The present-day neo-classical structure of the cathedral is a mark of the splendid craftsmanship of the architect Alessandro Galilei in the 18th century.
The spectacular front doors taken from the Senate Hall are older than the Basilica itself and reminiscent of its Roman heritage. Basilica di San Giovanni in Laterano, as it is commonly referred to, houses the biggest Egyptian obelisk in the world, 12 baroque statues of the apostles, richly decorated marble walls, mosaics, and Cosmatesque floors. Read on to find out more about the Archbasilica of St. John Lateran, the Archbasilica of St. John Lateran Tickets, how to reach there, its opening hours, and other details that will help you plan your visit.
Why Visit Archbasilica of St. John Lateran?
- Slice of History: The Archbasilica of St. John Lateran has witnessed the ravages of time and two large fires. Initially, the Archbasilica of St. John Lateran was a Lateran family mansion.
- Architectural Marvel: The Archbasilica of St. John Lateran contains impeccable Renaissance architecture, marble columns, tapestries, paintings, and frescoes. The entrance facade dating from the Roman times, St. John's five naves, and the biggest Egyptian Obelisk are the highlights of the Lateran Archbasilica tour.
- Papal Relics: The Cloister and Baptistery buildings beside the main residence are some important highlights of the Basilica. It is also an important reliquary that houses the skulls of Saint Peter and Paul and other papal tombs.
- Grand Interiors: Back in the days of Constantine, the Archbasilica of St. John Lateran boasted seven silver altars, a gold-coated apse vault, and about 100 chandeliers. The Cosmatesque interiors are also fantastic historical remnants not to be missed out on.
- Religious Importance: Although its importance as the Papal residence waned, the Archbasilica of St. John Lateran ranks above all other churches in Rome. The Latin inscription at the entrance declares Christ to be the real savior.
Your Archbasilica of St. John Lateran Tickets Explained
St. John Lateran Ticket with Audio Guide
- Book the St. John Lateran Ticket with Audio Guide for a deeper understanding of the historicity of the most sacrilegious cathedral in Rome.
- The informative audio guide included in the St. John Lateran Ticket comes in English, French, Spanish, German, and Italian for a more personalized experience.
- The St. John Lateran tickets include the Cloister, Baptistery, Scala Santa Stairs, and Scala Sanctorum Chapel. These attractions are among some of the holiest places among Catholics.
Super Flexible Cancellation Policy
Enjoy a Super Flexible Cancellation Policy with your St. John Lateran Tickets by booking them online. You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund. For more information, make sure to check your details before purchasing.
What is the Best Way to Book Archbasilica of St. John Lateran Tickets? Book them Online
The oldest Church in the West, St. John Lateran Archbasilica boasts unforgettable Renaissance architecture that also shows influences from the ancient Roman and Gothic eras. Many renowned painters and sculptors have left their mark on this Cathedral. Though its importance as the Papal residence has waned, the numerous holy relics housed in the Archbasilica make it one of the Holiest Catholic sites. Make sure to book your tickets well in advance to avoid missing out on witnessing such a spectacular structure. Booking your tickets online will reserve your spot and make for a hassle-free and delightful experience.
- Convenience: With online booking systems in place, you can book a ticket easily and enjoy your tour without queuing up in long lines outside the tunnels.
- Secure Bookings: Since online reservations are taken early, you do not have to worry about missing your experience. Your spot will be secured.
- Great Deals: Online bookings offer great discounts on a variety of experiences. You will also find added features like audio guides in different languages to make your experience personal and memorable.
- Cancellation Policy: If you book tickets online and are unable to attend, you can cancel them up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Archbasilica of St. John Lateran Highlights
Ancient Roman Facade
The giant bronze doors guarding the Basilica have been taken from the Roman Senate Forum and are older than the Church itself. The entrance has a 7-meter-tall statue of Jesus, surrounded by his saints and disciples. The Latin inscription declares, “Christo Salvatori.”
Biggest Egyptian Obelisk
One of the most noteworthy highlights of the Lateran Basilica is the towering Egyptian obelisk in front of the northern facade. It originally belonged to the Karnak Temple in Egypt. Much later, it was sent to Constantinople and then erected at Circus Maximus.
St John’s Five Naves
As you step through the entrance, you will be enchanted by the sight of St John’s long five naves, separated by towering marble columns. The golden painting above symbolizes Pagan traditions like doves holding an olive branch, laurel, and crossed palms.
Altar of the Sacrament
The Altar of the Sacrament could either have been shipped from Jerusalem or could be an adaptation of the Pagan Altar in the Capitoline Jupiter Temple. One of the most poignant relics in the Basilica is the wood fragment contained in the tympanum. It is said to have been a part of the Last Supper table, where Jesus dined with his 12 Apostles.
Mosaic Cloister Building
The cloister adjacent to the Lateran Archbasilica is almost 36 meters wide on both sides. They were carved by the Vassalletti, the most talented stonemasons of Rome. The most striking feature of the Lateran cloister is not the statues or Roman gilded columns, but the intimacy and pinching silence of the 800-year-old establishment.
San Giovanni in Fonte
Originally established in the 4th century, the Baptistery connects to a church called St John in Fonte. A two-tier colonnade at the center of the structure gives it an octagonal shape and forms a dome. Throughout centuries, the mosaics have worn off and many artists like Borromini, Rainaldi, and Sacchi have left their frescoes on these walls.
Scala Sancta Stairs
Scala Sancta Stairs, also known as the Holy Stairs, are a series of 28 steps on the right side of the St. John entrance. They are believed to be the ones Jesus climbed on his way to Pontius Pilate’s Office during his trial. The walnut plates and rich layering of frescoes are the main highlights of these stairs.
Sancta Sanctorum Chapel
Pilgrims undertake the evocative Sancta Stairs journey on their knees to this day. Upon reaching a thick glass wall at the top, pilgrims can see the most sacred place of Christianity, the chapel of St. Lawrence. It functioned as the personal chapel of the early Popes of the Lateran Palace.
The Achiropita Painting
The Achiropita, literally meaning ‘not created by mankind’ is a painting located inside the chapel that shows Jesus holding the New Testament. Its origin is unknown, however this ancient relic has been around since the 8th century. The silver and gold wrappings over this fresco is awe-inspiring.
Plan Your Visit to the Archbasilica of St. John Lateran
Basilica Timings
Monday to Sunday: 9 AM to 5 PM
Sancta Stairs and Sancta Sanctorum Timings:
Monday to Saturday: 9 AM to 1 PM, 3 PM to 5 PM
Sunday: 3 PM to 5 PM
- Duration of Visit: The Archbasilica of St. John Lateran Tickets with Audio Guide last for about 1 hour and 30 minutes.
- Best Time to Visit: The pleasant weather and peak tourist season during the months of April to May and September to October make it the best time to visit the Archbasilica of St. John Lateran.
Address: Piazza di San Giovanni in Laterano, 4, 00184 Roma RM, Italy
Find on Maps
- By Bus: Get on any bus on the 714, 792, 81, or 85, 87, F02 route.
Nearest Stop: Piazza di San Giovanni in Laterano - By Car: The distance from the Rome Airport to the Lateran Complex is 28.9km.
Nearest Stop: INPS Roma Parcheggio Auto or Super Rimessa Metronio - By Train: Board on trains along the FL1, FL3, FL4, and RV lines.
Nearest Stop: Piazza di Porta Maggiore - By Metro: Take the Line A metro and stop at San Giovanni.
Nearest Stop: Vittorio Emanuele (3 mins) or San Giovanni (5 mins)
- Toilets: There are modern washroom facilities inside the St. John Lateran Archbasilica.
- Accessibility: There are ramps inside and outside the Archbasilica of St. John Lateran.
- Audio Guides: The St. John Lateran Tickets with Audio Guide comes in 5 languages- English, French, Spanish, German, and Italian.
- Photography: You are permitted to click photographs without flash inside the cathedral.
- Roman Colosseum: The Colosseum is a standing testament to the ancient Roman tradition of letting gladiators fight to the death to entertain the Emperor and a rowdy crowd. Make sure to visit the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill.
- St. Peter’s Basilica: Known for having the tallest dome in the world, St Peter’s Basilica boasts the intricacies of Renaissance-era architecture and offers breathtaking views of the city. The Vatican Necropolis, an ancient burial ground, offers a deeper insight into the mausoleums and tombs of the 1st and 4th centuries.
- Vatican Museum: A dream for art lovers, the Vatican Museum showcases the Sistine Chapel, Raphael’s Transfiguration, and the Pinecone Courtyard in all its glory. The Maps Room, Tapestries Hall, and Rotunda Room are some of its other marvels.
- Baths of Caracalla: The Caracalla Baths are the second-largest bathing complexes and could accommodate almost 1600 Roman bathers back in the day. Like every Roman architecture, the Baths are dotted with frescoes, mosaics, and sculptures.
- Wear Comfortable Shoes: The Archbasilica of St. John Lateran tour will involve a lot of walking. Wear the most comfortable shoes you can find, like sneakers or flip-flops, as there is a lot to cover.
- Wear A Hat: Wear a hat and sunscreen for added protection.
- Book a Guided Tour: To appreciate the rich historicity and legacy of the cathedral, it is recommended that you book a guided tour of the Archbasilica of St. John Lateran.
- Maintain Dress Code: Please note that Catholic churches have a strict dress code. Wear clothes that cover your knees and shoulders.
- Photography: You are permitted to click pictures without flash inside the Archbasilica of St. John Lateran.
- Wheelchair Accessible: There are ramps inside and outside the Archbasilica of St. John Lateran for wheelchair visitors.
All Your Questions About Archbasilica of St. John Lateran Answered
A. Yes, you can buy the St. John Lateran tickets online.
A. The best way to buy the St. John Lateran tickets is to purchase them online.
A. Get great deals and attractive discounts on booking the St. John Lateran tickets online.
A. The St. John Lateran Tour with Audio Guide lasts for approximately an hour and 30 minutes.
A. There is no entrance fee for the Archbasilica of St. John Lateran.
A. The open space outside the Archbasilica of St. John Lateran is used for a concert on the 1st of May (Labor Day). It might be difficult to walk around the area on that day.
A. The Archbasilica of St. John Lateran was originally built by an influential house in Rome called the Lateran family. Suspected of treason, Emperor Nero seized the Lateran Complex and the first Catholic Roman Emperor gave it to the Church.
A. The Archbasilica of St. John Lateran is the oldest church in the West. It houses several Holy relics. Its rich historicity is marked by renowned painters and sculptors from the ancient Roman to the Neoclassical era.
A. The Archbasilica of St. John Lateran is located on Piazza di San Giovanni in Laterano, 4, 00184 Roma RM, Italy.
A. The best way to reach the Archbasilica of St. John Lateran is to grab a metro from Line A and get down at Vittorio Emanuele or San Giovanni.
A. The Archbasilica of St. John Lateran is open for public viewing from 9 AM to 5 PM.
A. The Sancta Stairs and Sancta Sanctorum, St John’s five naves, the Cloister and Baptistery buildings, and numerous other frescoes, paintings, and sculptures attract plenty of visitors to the Archbasilica of St. John Lateran year after year.
A. There are ramps inside and outside the Archbasilica of St. John Lateran for wheelchair visitors.
A. Photography without flash is permitted inside the cathedral.
A. The pleasant weather and peak tourist season during the months of April to May and September to October make it the best time to visit the Archbasilica of St. John Lateran.
A. The Roman Colosseum, St. Peter’s Basilica, Baths of Caracalla, and the Vatican Museum are some of the attractions near the Lateran Archbasilica.