San Giovanni in Laterano

San Giovanni in Laterano, also known as the Basilica of St. John Lateran, is one of the four major basilicas in Rome and holds a significant place in the Catholic Church. It is officially known as the Archbasilica of the Most Holy Savior and Saints John the Baptist and John the Evangelist at the Lateran.

Key points about San Giovanni in Laterano:

Status: As the cathedral of the Diocese of Rome, San Giovanni in Laterano is considered the official ecclesiastical seat of the Pope, who is also the Bishop of Rome. It is often regarded as the “mother of all churches.”

History: The basilica has a long history, dating back to the early Christian era. It was originally built by the Roman Emperor Constantine the Great in the 4th century. Over the centuries, it underwent several reconstructions and renovations.

Architectural Significance: San Giovanni in Laterano features impressive architecture, including a grand façade and a massive bronze door. The interior is adorned with numerous chapels, statues, and intricate decorations.

Obelisk: In the square in front of the basilica stands an ancient Egyptian obelisk, which was originally located at the Temple of Amun in Karnak, Egypt. It was brought to Rome by Emperor Constantius II in the 4th century.

Lateran Treaty: The Lateran Treaty, signed in 1929 between the Holy See and the Kingdom of Italy, recognized the Vatican City as an independent sovereign state and granted San Giovanni in Laterano extraterritorial status.

Feast Day: The dedication of the Lateran Basilica is celebrated on November 9 each year.

San Giovanni in Laterano holds great spiritual and historical significance for the Catholic Church, and it remains a symbol of the early Christian heritage in Rome.