The Archbasilica of Saint John Lateran serves as the Catholic cathedral of the Diocese of Rome and the pope’s seat. It is the only "archbasilica" in the world, ranking highest among papal basilicas. Although it lies outside Vatican City, it is located about 4 kilometers (2.5 miles) from the Vatican. Thanks to the Lateran Treaty of 1929, the Lateran Basilica enjoys extraterritorial status, granting it autonomy from Italy.
Founded in 324 AD, the archbasilica is the oldest public church in Rome and the Western world’s oldest basilica. The site once hosted the palace of the ancient Roman Laterani family. Eventually, it became the pope’s primary residence until the Middle Ages. The church honors Christ the Savior, John the Baptist, and John the Evangelist.
Over the centuries, the archbasilica has faced many challenges. For instance, it deteriorated during the Middle Ages and suffered from two fires in the 14th century. In response, Pope Sixtus V led its reconstruction in the late 16th century. Furthermore, the interior underwent renovations in the 17th century. Later, Pope Clement XII completed the grand façade in 1735.
Initially, the archbasilica was dedicated to Christ the Savior. Its feast day, therefore, occurs on the Transfiguration of Christ, August 6. Today, it holds a special place as the pope’s cathedral, ranking above all other churches, including Saint Peter’s Basilica.
Here’s how you can reach the Archbasilica of Saint John Lateran by air, rail, and bus:
By Air:
Arrive at Rome’s Fiumicino Airport (Leonardo da Vinci International Airport) – This is the main international airport in Rome. Travel to the City Center:
By Train: Take the Leonardo Express train from the airport to Roma Termini Station. The train takes about 30 minutes.
By Taxi or Ride-Sharing: A taxi ride from the airport to the Archbasilica of Saint John Lateran takes around 40 minutes, depending on traffic.
By Shuttle: Airport shuttle services also run from Fiumicino to central Rome, though they may take longer.
By Rail:
From Roma Termini Station:The Archbasilica of Saint John Lateran is about a 15-minute walk from Roma Termini Station.
Alternatively, you can take Metro Line A (Red Line) from Termini station towards Anagnina and get off at the San Giovanni station. From there, it’s a short walk to the basilica.
By Bus:
From Termini Station:Several buses leave from Termini Station and pass near the Archbasilica of Saint John Lateran. You can take bus lines 85, 87, or 117, which stop at the San Giovanni area, a short walk from the basilica.
From Fiumicino Airport:You can also take a direct shuttle bus from Fiumicino Airport to central Rome. These buses typically stop at Roma Termini or other central locations, from which you can transfer to a metro or bus heading toward the basilica.
Once you arrive at San Giovanni station, it's only a few minutes' walk to the archbasilica.
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7:30 am (Massimo Chapel) July and August suspended
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