ROME · ITALY
Archbasilica of Saint John Lateran
Stop 07 of 18 on Travelhour's Rome walking day
About Archbasilica of Saint John Lateran
The Archbasilica of Saint John Lateran, commonly known as the Lateran Basilica or Saint John Lateran, is the Catholic cathedral of the Diocese of Rome in the city of Rome, Italy. It serves as the seat of the bishop of Rome and head of the worldwide Catholic Church: the pope. The only "archbasilica" in the world, it lies outside of Vatican City proper, which is located approximately four kilometres northwest. Nevertheless, as properties of the Holy See, the archbasilica and its adjoining edifices enjoy an extraterritorial status from Italy, pursuant to the terms of the Lateran Treaty of 1929. Dedicated to Christ the Saviour, in honor of John the Baptist and John the Evangelist, the place name – Laterano (Lateran) – comes from an ancient Roman family (gens), whose palace (domus) grounds occupied the site. The adjacent Lateran Palace was the primary residence of the pope until the Middle Ages.
Frequently asked
Archbasilica of Saint John Lateran — questions travellers ask
- How much are Archbasilica of Saint John Lateran tickets?
- Archbasilica of Saint John Lateran ticket prices vary by season and age group; check the official site or use the booking partners linked on this page for current live pricing.
- What are Archbasilica of Saint John Lateran opening hours?
- Opening hours vary by season — check the official Archbasilica of Saint John Lateran website before your visit for the current schedule.
- How do you get to Archbasilica of Saint John Lateran?
- Archbasilica of Saint John Lateran is centrally located in Rome, Italy. Reach it by metro, tram or a short taxi ride from the city centre — see the Google Maps link on this page for exact walking directions.
- Is Archbasilica of Saint John Lateran worth visiting?
- Yes — The Archbasilica of Saint John Lateran, commonly known as the Lateran Basilica or Saint John Lateran, is the Catholic cathedral of the Diocese of Rome in the city of Rome, Italy.
- How long do you need at Archbasilica of Saint John Lateran?
- Most visitors spend 1–2 hours at Archbasilica of Saint John Lateran, though tour groups often move through in under an hour.
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ROME
Archbasilica of Saint John Lateran