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 Santa Giovanni In
Laterano
Santa Giovanni In Laterano is the Cathedral
of Rome. Founded by Constantine in 313 AD it is perhaps,
the most ancient among the Christian churches. The cathedral was
rebuilt several times, notably in 1646 when Borromini
restyled the interior, retaining its original Basilica
form.
The exterior of
the church is a masterpiece by Alessandro Galilei who
rebuilt the facade in 1732 with strong influences of
the Baroque and Neo-classical styles. Fifteen colossal
statues crown the façade, the most conspicuous
being that of Christ.
 The
Gothic Baldacchino, which rises over the Papal
Altar, is decorated with 14th. century frescoes.
One
of the major distinctions is that only the Pope can
celebrate Mass at this altar.
 The Holy Staircase It is
said to be the steps that Christ walked down after being
condemned by Pontius Pilate.
Constantine's
mother, St. Helena, retrieved the staircase from Jerusalem.
The faithful ascend the staircase by walking on their
knees.
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