The Scala Sancta (English: Holy Stairs, Italian: Scala Santa) are a set of 28 white marble steps that are Roman Catholic relics located in an edifice on extraterritorial property of the Holy See in Rome, Italy proximate to the Archbasilica of Saint John in Laterano. Officially, the edifice is titled the Pontifical Sanctuary of the Holy Stairs (Pontificio Santuario della Scala Santa), and incorporates part of the old Papal Lateran Palace. Replica stairs flank the original staircase, which may only be climbed on one's knees. The Holy Stairs lead to the Church of Saint Lawrence in Palatio ad Sancta Sanctorum (Chiesa di San Lorenzo in Palatio ad Sancta Sanctorum) or simply the "Sancta Sanctorum" (English: Holy of Holies), which was the personal chapel of the early Popes. According to Roman Catholic tradition, the Holy Stairs were the steps leading up to the praetorium of Pontius Pilate in Jerusalem on which Jesus Christ stepped on his way to trial during his Passion. The Stairs reputedly were brought to Rome by Saint Helena in the fourth century. For centuries, the Scala Sancta has attracted Christian pilgrims who wish to honour the Passion of Jesus Christ. Since the early 1700s, the Holy Stairs have been encased in wood for protection, but were briefly exposed in 2019 following restoration work. According to Roman Catholic tradition, the Holy Stairs were the steps leading up to the praetorium of Pontius Pilate in Jerusalem on which Jesus Christ stepped on his way to trial during his Passion. Medieval legends claim that Saint Helena, mother of Emperor Constantine the Great, brought the Holy Stairs from Jerusalem to Rome circa AD 326. In the Middle Ages, they were known as "Scala Pilati" ("Stairs of Pilate"). From old plans it appears that they led to a corridor of the Lateran Palace, near the Chapel of Saint Sylvester, and were covered with a special roof. In 1589, Pope Sixtus V had the Papal Lateran Palace, then in ruins, demolished to make way for the construction of a new one. He ordered the Holy Stairs be reconstructed in their present location, before the Sancta Sanctorum (Holy of Holies), named for the many precious relics preserved there. The chapel also houses an icon of Christ Pantocrator, known as the "Uronica", that was supposedly begun by Saint Luke and finished by an angel. This celebrated icon of Santissimi Salvatore Acheiropoieton ("not made by human hands"), on certain occasions, used to be carried through Rome in procession. The Scala Sancta may only be ascended on the knees. For common use, the staircase is flanked by four additional staircases, two on each side, constructed circa 1589. In 1724, Pope Benedict XIII covered the marble stairs in wood for their protection, since the marble had been significantly worn away by the many pilgrims ascending the stairs over time. The stairs remained covered until 2019, when the protective wood covering was removed and the marble exposed following restoration work. When the stairs were reopened on 11 April 2019, pilgrims were permitted to ascend the exposed marble stairs on their knees for the first time in almost 300 years. The stairs remained exposed and open to the public between April 2019 and July 2019, and then were again covered in wood.
Holy Stairs (Scala Sancta) Tours and Tickets
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The Scala Sancta (English: Holy Stairs, Italian: Scala Santa) are a set of 28 white marble steps that are Roman Catholic relics located in an edifice on extraterritorial property of the Holy See in Rome, Italy proximate to the Archbasilica of Saint John in Laterano. Officially, the edifice is titled the Pontifical Sanctuary of the Holy Stairs (Pontificio Santuario della Scala Santa), and incorporates part of the old Papal Lateran Palace. Replica stairs flank the original staircase, which may only be climbed on one's knees. The Holy Stairs lead to the Church of Saint Lawrence in Palatio ad Sancta Sanctorum (Chiesa di San Lorenzo in Palatio ad Sancta Sanctorum) or simply the "Sancta Sanctorum" (English: Holy of Holies), which was the personal chapel of the early Popes. According to Roman Catholic tradition, the Holy Stairs were the steps leading up to the praetorium of Pontius Pilate in Jerusalem on which Jesus Christ stepped on his way to trial during his Passion. The Stairs reputedly were brought to Rome by Saint Helena in the fourth century. For centuries, the Scala Sancta has attracted Christian pilgrims who wish to honour the Passion of Jesus Christ. Since the early 1700s, the Holy Stairs have been encased in wood for protection, but were briefly exposed in 2019 following restoration work. According to Roman Catholic tradition, the Holy Stairs were the steps leading up to the praetorium of Pontius Pilate in Jerusalem on which Jesus Christ stepped on his way to trial during his Passion. Medieval legends claim that Saint Helena, mother of Emperor Constantine the Great, brought the Holy Stairs from Jerusalem to Rome circa AD 326. In the Middle Ages, they were known as "Scala Pilati" ("Stairs of Pilate"). From old plans it appears that they led to a corridor of the Lateran Palace, near the Chapel of Saint Sylvester, and were covered with a special roof. In 1589, Pope Sixtus V had the Papal Lateran Palace, then in ruins, demolished to make way for the construction of a new one. He ordered the Holy Stairs be reconstructed in their present location, before the Sancta Sanctorum (Holy of Holies), named for the many precious relics preserved there. The chapel also houses an icon of Christ Pantocrator, known as the "Uronica", that was supposedly begun by Saint Luke and finished by an angel. This celebrated icon of Santissimi Salvatore Acheiropoieton ("not made by human hands"), on certain occasions, used to be carried through Rome in procession. The Scala Sancta may only be ascended on the knees. For common use, the staircase is flanked by four additional staircases, two on each side, constructed circa 1589. In 1724, Pope Benedict XIII covered the marble stairs in wood for their protection, since the marble had been significantly worn away by the many pilgrims ascending the stairs over time. The stairs remained covered until 2019, when the protective wood covering was removed and the marble exposed following restoration work. When the stairs were reopened on 11 April 2019, pilgrims were permitted to ascend the exposed marble stairs on their knees for the first time in almost 300 years. The stairs remained exposed and open to the public between April 2019 and July 2019, and then were again covered in wood.
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- Wear comfortable shoes, a hat, and sunscreen if you’re joining a walking tour of Christian Rome, as you’ll be outdoors for long stretches.
- Knees and shoulders must be covered to access the Scala Santa replica and Chapel of San Lorenzo. Photography isn’t allowed.
- The Scala Santa replica isn’t accessible for wheelchair users.
- Visitors who can’t ascend the stairs on their knees are allowed to kneel on the lowest step and walk up the remaining stairs.
- Access to the Scala Santa is free but there's a small admission charge for the Sancta Sanctorum.
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We are immensely pleased to lead to you to visit the most significant sites of the Catholic Church in Rome. Included one Papal Blessing on Parchment in English. • Saint John Lateran • The Holy Stairs • Saint Mary Major • Saint Paul Outside the Walls • St. Peter’s Basilica (if and when open) Lunch included in a tipical Roman Restaurant. Upgradable with Official Licensed Expert Tour Guide (if option selected) Pickup and dropoff will be at your accommodation in Rome. Worry-Free and Safe Private Tour Experience, operated only with: • Expert Professional English-Speaking Drivers • Selected local Expert Licensed Tour Guides (when booked) • Welcoming by private licensed fully-insured air-conditioned comfortable Vehicles_en-US
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Our guide will accompany you on a discovery of one of the most evocative places in Rome: starting from the Rione Celio and the Roman amphitheatre, the Colosseum, we will arrive at the Cathedral of Rome and the Sanctuary of the Scala Santa and Sancta Sanctorum. You will access and visit the monuments accompanied by an experienced and accredited local guide. You will also visit the Basilica of the Santi Quattro Incoronati, which is part of an ancient Christian complex located in the Roman district of Celio, on the hill of the same name, and its frescoed interiors of remarkable historical and artistic value._en-US
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As you stand at the entrance of the Holy Stairs in Rome, there is a palpable sense of reverence in the air. The Chapel of San Lorenzo beckons you with its ancient walls and flickering candlelight, creating a soft glow that dances along the stone floor. The sound of hushed whispers and soft footsteps surround you as pilgrims climb the steps on their knees, a ritual of devotion that has been practiced for centuries.
As you begin your ascent, the rough texture of the wooden steps beneath your hands sends a shiver up your spine. The scent of burning incense fills the air, mingling with the musky aroma of old stone. With each step, you can feel the weight of history pressing down on you, a tangible presence that seems to whisper ancient secrets into your ear.
The sound of your breath echoes in the chamber, a rhythmic counterpoint to the hushed murmur of prayers that hang in the air like a veil. The dim light filtering in through stained glass windows casts colorful shadows on the walls, creating a kaleidoscope of patterns that dance around you as you climb higher and higher.
As you reach the top of the stairs, a wave of emotion washes over you, leaving you breathless and humbled. The Chapel of San Lorenzo seems to pulse with a quiet energy, a heartbeat that echoes through the centuries. You can almost hear the voices of the faithful who have climbed these stairs before you, their prayers lingering in the air like a gentle caress.
In this sacred space, time seems to stand still, enveloping you in a cocoon of peace and tranquility. The weight of the world lifts from your shoulders, replaced by a sense of serenity and clarity. As you kneel before the altar, the soft glow of candlelight illuminates the gentle smile of San Lorenzo, his eyes seeming to meet yours with a knowing gaze.
In this moment of quiet contemplation, you feel a deep connection to something greater than yourself. The Chapel of San Lorenzo becomes a sanctuary, a place where ancient whispers mingle with the beating of your own heart. And as you descend the Holy Stairs, a sense of renewal fills your soul, carrying you forward on your journey with a lightness you never knew before.
The Holy Stairs (Scala Sancta) and Chapel of San Lorenzo in Rome do not currently offer audio descriptive guides or sensory-friendly hours. However, visitors with disabilities are encouraged to contact the site in advance to inquire about any accommodations that may be available. The staff at the Holy Stairs and Chapel of San Lorenzo are dedicated to providing a welcoming environment for all visitors, and will do their best to assist individuals with special needs.
The Holy Stairs, also known as the Scala Sancta, are a significant and sacred site in Rome for Christians around the world. These 28 white marble steps are believed to be the same stairs that Jesus climbed during his trial before Pontius Pilate in Jerusalem. They were brought to Rome by Saint Helena, the mother of Emperor Constantine the Great, in the 4th century.
Local artists and writers have long been captivated by the Holy Stairs and the adjacent Chapel of San Lorenzo. The Chapel of San Lorenzo, dedicated to the martyr Saint Lawrence, is located at the top of the Holy Stairs and is adorned with beautiful frescoes and intricate carvings.
One local artist, Giovanni, describes the Holy Stairs as a place of deep reverence and contemplation. He often visits to sketch the intricate details of the marble steps and the stunning architecture of the Chapel of San Lorenzo. For him, the Holy Stairs represent a connection to the past and a way to meditate on the sacrifices made by early Christians.
Another local writer, Sofia, shares her personal connection to the Holy Stairs. She has climbed them on her knees as a form of prayer and penance, following the tradition of many pilgrims who visit the site seeking spiritual renewal. For Sofia, the act of climbing the Holy Stairs is a physical and emotional experience that brings her closer to her faith.
Both Giovanni and Sofia agree that the Holy Stairs and Chapel of San Lorenzo hold a special place in the hearts of Romans and visitors alike. The centuries-old history and sacred significance of these sites continue to inspire awe and contemplation, drawing people from all walks of life to experience their beauty and spirituality.
To visit the Holy Stairs (Scala Sancta) and Chapel of San Lorenzo in Rome, here is some helpful information about directions, transportation options, ticket booking, discounts, and local amenities:
### Directions and Transportation:
1. Address: The Holy Stairs and Chapel of San Lorenzo are located at Piazza di San Giovanni in Laterano, 00184 Rome, Italy.
2. Public Transportation: You can reach the site easily using Rome’s public transportation system. The nearest metro station is San Giovanni (Line A). From there, it is a short walk to the Holy Stairs and Chapel of San Lorenzo.
3. Accessibility: The Holy Stairs are a significant religious site, but it’s crucial to note that they are original marble steps that are not wheelchair accessible. However, there is a side entrance with an accessible elevator available for visitors with mobility issues.
### Ticket Booking and Discounts:
1. Ticket Booking: Tickets to visit the Holy Stairs and Chapel of San Lorenzo can be purchased on-site or online through the official website of the Papal Basilica of St. John Lateran.
2. Discounts: Discounts are often available for students, seniors, children, and religious groups. It’s advisable to check the official website for any ongoing promotions or special discounts.
### Local Amenities:
1. Parking: Limited paid parking is available near the Holy Stairs and Chapel of San Lorenzo. However, it’s recommended to utilize public transportation due to the high traffic in the area.
2. Restrooms: Restrooms can be found within the basilica complex for visitors to use.
3. Dining Options: There are several cafes, restaurants, and snack bars in the surrounding area catering to various dietary needs, including vegetarian and vegan options.
By following these directions, utilizing accessible transportation, booking tickets in advance, taking advantage of available discounts, and being aware of local amenities, visitors can have a smooth and enjoyable experience exploring the Holy Stairs and Chapel of San Lorenzo in Rome.