The Holy Stairs – Scala Sancta

The Holy Stairs (Scala Sancta) in Rome: A Sacred Pilgrimage

The Scala Sancta, or Holy Stairs, is one of the most revered Christian sites in Rome, attracting pilgrims and visitors from around the world. Located near the Basilica of St. John Lateran, these 28 marble steps hold deep religious and historical significance.

A Sacred Journey from Jerusalem to Rome

According to tradition, the Holy Stairs are the very steps that Jesus ascended during his trial before Pontius Pilate in Jerusalem. It is believed that Saint Helena, the mother of Emperor Constantine the Great, brought the staircase to Rome in 326 AD as part of her efforts to preserve Christian relics.

The Pilgrim Experience

For centuries, devotees have climbed the Holy Stairs on their knees, reflecting on Christ’s Passion and offering prayers at each step. To protect the original marble, the stairs are now covered with wooden panels, though small windows allow visitors to glimpse the ancient stone beneath.

The steps lead to the Sancta Sanctorum, the former private chapel of the Popes, which houses a highly venerated image of Christ the Redeemer, believed to be of divine origin.

Visiting the Holy Stairs

• Location: Piazza di San Giovanni in Laterano, Rome
• Opening Hours: Typically open daily, but check local schedules for variations
• Entry Fee: Free (donations welcome)
• Tips for Visitors:
  • Many choose to ascend on their knees, but side staircases allow walking access.
  • The site is easily combined with a visit to St. John Lateran, Rome’s oldest basilica.
  • Expect a solemn atmosphere as pilgrims engage in prayer and reflection.

Whether you visit as a pilgrim or a history enthusiast, the Scala Sancta offers a moving and unforgettable experience, connecting visitors with centuries of faith and devotion.