San Giovanni in Laterano is the Bishop of Rome's cathedral and therefore the mother church of all Christianity. San Giovanni is magnificent in its beauty and importance, and it is much less overrun than St. Peter's. A good time for silence and prayer. Don't forget to visit the Scala Santa (Holy Steps) across the street.

It is THE PLACE to get a feel for how christianity got adopted by the romans thanks to the audioguide which free, but donations accepted and passport etc to be left as security.

The Basilica of St. John Lateran is the oldest Christian church in the world and was commissioned by Constantine the Great. The cathedral was dedicated to the Savior on November 9, 318. Pope Sergius III added John the Baptist to the basilica’s dedication in the 10th century. Pope Lucius II added John the Evangelist in the 12th century. Pope Innocent... More

beautiful space; interesting area to walk around. much less touristy than St. peters. free audio guide useful

For Christians this a must-see pilgrim church with relics that include the heads of Saints Peter and Paul; the Holy Umbilical Cord; and wood from the table used during the Last Supper and in an adjacant building, the Holy Stairs (Scala Santa) which were taken from the palace of Pontius Pilate where Jesus walked on the way to be crucified... More

One of many great basilicas in Rome, this one is the city's cathedral and great both inside and out. Unfortunately, whilst Rome is fairly litter-free, the grounds of San Giovanni were unloved and litter-strewn.

A truly amazing basilica with an outstanding ceiling. Huge in size, even if it is dwarfed by st Peter's.

to the kind person who found my red purse in the church thank you thank you , there r some honest people in this world. rose

Our second visit, had to return to show our daughter what a fantastic place this is!!! The cathedral for Rome , the Pope's church and truly magnificent!!!