Description of the attraction
The basilica, erected by Constantine, survived the raids and robberies of the vandals of Genmerik, was badly damaged by the 896 earthquake and numerous fires. Over the centuries, it has been rebuilt and restored several times with the participation of architects such as Giovanni di Stefano, Francesco Borromini and Alessandro Galilei, who completely rebuilt the façade in 1735.
The Basilica of San Giovanni in Laterano is a powerful architectural structure of the monumental Corinthian order. The central building slightly protruding forward is decorated with a balustrade, which enlivens the entire cathedral, giving it a pronounced baroque color. Colossal statues of Christ, John the Baptist, John the Evangelist and the Teachers of the Church rise above the balustrade. There are five entrances to the church with loggias above them. The last entrance on the right is known as Porta Santa (Holy Gate) and is only used on church holidays.
The main part of the cathedral dates back to 1589, but some structures have survived from more ancient times, for example, the Rock of Santa (Sacred Staircase), along which Christ climbed to the court of Pilate.
The majestic interior features a Latin cross with five naves. The opulent ceiling was supposedly painted by Pirro Ligorio. Along the walls there are statues of Prophets, Saints and Apostles, made according to sketches by Borromini by his disciples in the 18th century. Where the central nave meets the transept is the heart of the Gothic cathedral, the tabernacle by Giovanni di Stefano. A precious relic is kept in the papal altar - a rough wooden board that was used by St. Peter to perform the rite of worship in the catacombs.
