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Catholic Tour of St. John Lateran, Baptistery and
Holy Stairs
Join an intense spiritual pilgrimage through three of Rome's most significant places of worship, accompanied by an experienced Catholic guide who will take you on a journey through faith, art and history. The guide will help you gain an in-depth understanding of the history of the Basilica of St. John Lateran, the Lateran Baptistery and the Holy Stairs, revealing details and symbolism of these places that have unique importance in Christian tradition.
- 3 Hours
- Accessible
- Photos Allowed
- Transportation Optional
- Walking Tour
- Official Tour guide
Tour Description
The tour begins with the Basilica of St. John Lateran, also known as the "Mother of all Churches". This is the oldest of the four papal basilicas in Rome as well as the city's cathedral. Guided by our knowledgeable Catholic guide, we will admire the imposing facade, with statues of saints and popes inviting entry. Entering the nave, we will be guided by the guide's narration to discover every artistic and spiritual detail , such as the precious mosaics and sculptures. The guide will also explain the symbolic significance of the Chapel of the Blessed Sacrament and Arnolfo di Cambio's magnificent medieval tabernacle.
We will continue to the Lateran Baptistery, the site of the ancient baptismal font of the early Roman Christians. The guide will explain the significance of the octagonal architecture, a symbol of resurrection and rebirth, and the historical importance of this site, the oldest Christian baptistery in the city. Inside we will admire the porphyry columns and early Christian mosaics, discovering the deep meaning of this place of purification and rebirth in faith.
The last stop on the tour is the Holy Staircase, a place of deep devotion that, according to tradition, houses the 28 steps that Jesus allegedly walked to Pontius Pilate on the day of his condemnation. Pilgrims from all over the world come here to climb these steps on their knees as an act of penance and prayer. During the visit, we will also admire the Chapel of the Sancta Sanctorum, an ancient private chapel of the popes, which holds precious relics. The Holy Staircase offers a moment of recollection and faith, a symbolic path that recalls the passion and sacrifice of Christ.
To book this original and unique catholic tour, please contact us for information and reservations at info@catholicexperiences.com.
What's included
- Basilica of St. John Lateran
- Lateran Baptistery
- Holy Staircase
- Chapel of the Sancta Sanctorum
- Chapel of the Blessed Sacrament
- Medieval Tabernacle
- Experienced Catholic guide
- Much more...
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT OUR tour
These are the most common questions asked by our past guests about our this tour. You few have more do not hesitate to contact us.
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1
DO YOU PROVIDE TRANSFER FROM THE HOTEL OR THE AIRPORT?
Yes, over the years we have arranged private transfers in comfortable air-conditioned minivans fully equipped with what a family needs with pick up from the hotel in and outside Rome. We also pick up from the airports or the port of Civitavecchia if you disembark with a cruise ship.
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2
HOW MUCH IN ADVANCE IS PREFERABLE TO BOOK?
The licensed guides that are good in touring with kids are not many and in high season they might not be available last minute. It is always preferable to book well in advance at least 4 weeks.
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3
CAN WE PAY BY BANK TRANSFER OR CREDIT CARD?
Yes, we accept both. If you travel from oustide the European Union credita card fees might be cheaper than banck transfer.
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4
CAN THE TOUR BE CUSTOMIZED?
Yes, most of our tours in Rome are private tours so we can customize the starting time, the lenght and the attraction visited on your desires and needs. We will suggest you our best options and we decide together.
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5
CAN WE BRING BACKPACKS ON TOUR?
Vatican authorities are very strict with the use of backpacks. Sometimes some distracted visitors hit the artworks with them. Thus, they require you to check them in at the entrance locker rooms of the museums. This is not convenient because you have to walk all the way back after the tour ends to collect them. We suggest not to bring them. Bring a small purse or simple bag. Also do not carry umbrellas on tour.
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6
WHAT IS THE DRESSING CODE FOR THE VATICAN?
In some areas of the Vatican a special dressing code is required: shoulderd and knees must be covered or you will not be able to access.
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7
WILL THE TOUR TAKE PLACE WITH RAIN?
The tour takes place with rain or shine. Much of the tour is also indoor, inside the Vatican Museums or the Basilica of Saint Peter.
Reviews
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- Tour taken in May -
Rita P. from UK with our tour Guide Simona
"Thank you for organising the tour with Simona. She was a great guide and catered the tour well for the children. She delivered the tour well and explained points simply and through visual aids which was really useful for us and the children. Please pass on our thanks to Simona and also to you for organising the tour and all other aspects at such short notice.", Rita P.
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