Lateran Basilica in Rome

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

History

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 survived to this day. The Lateran Basilica in Rome was long 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. 6 popes are buried in the temple itself.

Architectural features

The appearance of the Lateran Basilica in Rome has changed many times, resulting in a unique mixture of different styles, but the main style of the basilica is early Christian architecture. The Lateran Basilica in Rome is truly impressive with its interior and exterior. It preserves old mosaics depicting the face of Jesus, martyrs and other holy faces.  In the 13th century, all the mosaics in the temple were restored by master Toritti, who added to them the signs of the Franciscan Order. Under the arch of the apse is the cathedra of the Pope, flanked by majestic columns and old Roman mosaics. Inside the temple are kept the great relics of the Catholic Church - the heads of the apostles Peter and Paul. Master Borromini played a huge role, 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.

• St. Mary's Chapel was built in the 18th centuries. It contains the tomb of Master Qwania.
• Chapel of the Martyr John. This chapel differs from others in its amazing internal structure - 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 Porta. This chapel is famous for its relic - the painting "The Crucifixion of Christ".

Also next to the temple there is a museum, 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 from that period are collected here. The Italians are absolutely sure that every tourist in Rome should visit the Lateran Basilica in Rome.