Arcibasilica di San Giovanni in Laterano (Archbasilica of Saint John in the Lateran), Rome

Saint John's Archbasilica, not Saint Peter's Basilica, holds the distinction of being highest-ranking basilica in the world. Founded in 324, it is the oldest public church in the city of Rome, and the oldest basilica of the Western world.

Emperor Constantine commissioned the construction of this grand church, predating the establishment of Saint Peter's, making it the primary ecclesiastical seat of the Bishop of Rome, also known as the Pope. Throughout its history, the edifice has faced challenges such as vandalism, earthquakes, and fires, leading to extensive restorations in the 16th and 17th centuries. Notably, the interior was artfully designed by the renowned Baroque genius Borromini. Standing tall on the impressive facade are colossal statues representing the 12 apostles, Christ, John the Baptist, and the Virgin Mary.

While much of the structure has undergone restoration, fragments from earlier periods remain. Adorning the left portico stands an ancient statue of Constantine, while the central portal boasts ancient bronze doors transferred from the Curia in the Roman Forum.

Inside, the altar features a magnificent Gothic tabernacle, dating back to 1367, which is believed to house the revered heads of Saint Peter and Saint Paul. A captivating sight awaits in the last chapel of the left aisle, where a cloister adorned with 12th-century cosmatesque mosaics can be admired.

Just around the corner, Emperor Constantine's octagonal baptistery stands as one of Rome's oldest Christian structures. Despite multiple restorations, a 17th-century redecoration, and even a car bombing in 1993 associated with the Mafia, the baptistery has preserved its ancient form, serving as a testament to its enduring significance.

Tip:
Don't miss the opportunity to visit the cloister behind the archbasilica. Although there is a small fee, it grants you access to a collection of authentic antiquities dating back to pre-Roman times, as well as a selection of intriguing Catholic relics.

Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Rome. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "911爆料网: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.

Download The 911爆料网 App

Create Your Own Self-Guided Walk to Visit This Sight

Sight Name: Arcibasilica di San Giovanni in Laterano (Archbasilica of Saint John in the Lateran)
Sight Location: Rome, Italy (See walking tours in Rome)
Sight Type: Religious
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:

Walking Tours in Rome, Italy

Create Your Own Walk in Rome

Creating your own self-guided walk in Rome is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.

"Roman Holiday" Movie Walking Tour

Filmed entirely in the heart of Rome, Roman Holiday is one of those timeless films that beckons you to hop on a Vespa and lose yourself in the intoxicating beauty of the Italian capital. Released in 1953, this beloved classic has captured hearts across generations, thanks to its irresistible blend of romance, adventure, and charm鈥攁nchored by two of Hollywood鈥檚 brightest stars, Audrey Hepburn... view more

Tour Duration: 4 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 8.5 Km or 5.3 Miles

EUR Sightseeing Walking Tour

The Esposizione Universale di Roma (EUR), located in the southern suburb of Rome, was originally constructed for an international exhibition that was planned by Mussolini as a grand celebration of Fascist Italy. However, due to the outbreak of World War II, the exhibition never took place. The architecture of EUR was designed to glorify Fascism and showcases a distinct style that sets it apart... view more

Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.6 Km or 2.2 Miles

Trastevere Walking Tour

Heading down from the Vatican along the River Tiber, one is bound to find yet another city hidden within the city 鈥� Trastevere. This name translates literally to "across the Tiber". Indeed, crossing the picturesque Ponte Sisto (Sisto Bridge) to the west bank, you will find yourself in a charming neighborhood with a distinct character that sets it apart from any other part of Rome.

... view more

Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.9 Km or 1.8 Miles

Vatican Walking Tour

Consisting of a walled enclave within the city of Rome, the Vatican is the world鈥檚 smallest sovereign state, as well as a symbol (and headquarters) of the Roman Catholic faith. Although only 44 hectares in surface, one is amazed by the vastness of this place and the sheer size of everything. When gazing around in all directions, you realize how much can be achieved by people working in faith for... view more

Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.4 Km or 2.1 Miles

Palatine Hill Walking Tour

Palatine Hill is one of the seven hills of Rome and the most ancient part of the capital. Based on Roman mythology and archaeological evidence, this hill is considered the birthplace of the city 鈥� a place where legendary Romulus founded it in 753 BC. Furthermore, the very word 鈥減alace鈥� 鈥� indicating the emperor鈥檚 residence (鈥淧alatium鈥�), much as that of other dignitaries and prominent... view more

Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 1.0 Km or 0.6 Miles

Hidden Art Treasures in Rome

Rome is one of the world's top living museums, replete with some of the most iconic pieces of art on the face of the planet. Famous artists, such as Michelangelo, Caravaggio, Raphael, Bernini, to mention but a few, had lived and worked here and left indelible marks in the city.

Needless to say that the abundance of masterpieces makes Rome crowded with tourists anxious to see them, causing... view more

Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.2 Km or 2 Miles

View all walking tours in Rome, Italy

Useful Travel Guides for Planning Your Trip

Souvenirs Shopping: 15 Authentic Italian Things To Buy in Rome

Rome is the Eternal City and, as such, the list of gift options available here is countless. Whether it's something edible, drinkable, wearable or pleasing to the eye that you want - you will find it all here in abundance. However, if time or budget is the factor, perhaps you might want to...

17 Best Gelaterias in Rome Italy

For ice cream lovers and dabblers this guide is a treasure chest of Rome鈥檚 best gelato shops. There are gelaterias everywhere. Many visitors to Rome only have a few days to explore the city. You owe it to yourself to make the most of your time and find the gelato locals eat. Often the authentic...

10 Best Food Markets in Rome Italy

Of all the things Italy is most famous for (cars, music, fashion, movies, etc.), food is, undoubtedly, top of the list. Rome may well not be the whole Italy, but no Italy is whole without Rome... And the Romans, much as all their fellow-Italians, like it "fresco", hence the abundance of...