Lateran Basilica in Rome

The Lateran Basilica in Rome is the main cathedral of Italy, which houses the see of the Bishop of Rome. It is important to note that this church in the Catholic hierarchy stands at the highest places among all the churches in the world. This is evidenced by the inscription on the facade "The Most Holy Lateran Church, mother and head of all the churches of the city and the world."

History of origin

In 318, Pope Sylvester the First founded a church in honor of Christ the Savior. Gradually, the basilica underwent changes - columns, altars, mosaics and many other elements were added, some of which have been preserved to this day. The Lateran Basilica in Rome has long been considered the main residence of the Pope, but everything changed in 1377, when St. Paul's Cathedral was built in the Vatican. The basilica acquired the status of the Cathedral of Rome. In 1929, the famous Lutheran Agreements were signed in the cathedral, which allowed the basilica to receive the status of a diplomatic inviolable place. Every year on November 9, the Catholic Church celebrates the feast of the "Consecration of the Lateran Basilica." There are 6 popes buried in the temple itself.

Architectural features

The exterior of the Lateran Basilica in Rome has changed many times, resulting in a unique mix of different styles, but the main style of the basilica is early Christian architecture. The Lateran Basilica in Rome really impresses with its interior and exterior. It has preserved old mosaics depicting the face of Jesus, martyrs and other holy figures.  In the 13th century, all the mosaics in the temple were restored by master Toritti, who added the insignia of the Franciscan Order to them. Under the arch of the apse is the Pope's pulpit, which is flanked by majestic columns and old Roman mosaics. The great relics of the Catholic Church, the heads of the Apostles Peter and Paul, are kept inside the temple. A huge role was played by Master Borromini, who restored the ceiling in the temple, and various ornaments were added. Inside the Lateran Basilica in Rome there are chapels and chapels, each of which has its own unique dedication.

• The Chapel of St. Mary was built in the 18th century. It contains the tomb of Magister Quan.
• Chapel of the Martyr John. This chapel differs from others by its amazing interior design - inside there is an altar made of precious stones, as well as various sculptures and icons.
• The Massimo Chapel, which was designed by the famous Italian architect of the Port. This chapel is known for its relic, the painting "The Crucifixion of Christ."

There is also a museum attached to the church, which also houses sacred relics of the Catholic Church. It was founded in the 20th century by order of Pope Paul II. The Basilica of San Giovanni in Laterano is a sacred place for the entire Catholic Church. Great relics and significant objects of that period are collected here. Italians are sure that every tourist of Rome should definitely visit the Lateran Basilica in Rome.