Holy Stairs (Scala Sancta)

The basics

Believed to have once led to Pontius Pilate’s praetorium, the stairs are also said to have been climbed by Jesus on his way to trial. It’s no wonder, then, that the Scala Santa is a staple stop on Christian Rome and Passion of the Christ tours. Although you can visit independently, joining a tour group gives you the advantage of extra insider info and historical context. Plus, some tours also include skip-the-line access to the Vatican Museums, the Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter’s Basilica.

Things to know before you go

• 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.

How to get there

The Scala Santa and Chapel of San Lorenzo are part of the Basilica of St. John Lateran complex situated in Rione Monti of Rome at Piazza di San Giovanni. The San Giovanni metro station on Line A is about a 5-minute walk away.

When to get there

Scala Santa is open and accessible daily from the mid-morning until the evening, with a short break for lunch. Rome’s holy sites, including the St. John Lateran complex and Scala Santa, are especially crowded during Catholic holidays and Jubilee years; if possible, visit outside of these popular periods.

The Chapel of San Lorenzo (Sancta Sanctorum)

The first private papal chapel, the Chapel of San Lorenzo is known as the Sancta Sanctorum (Holy of Holies) because it houses a reliquary said to contain the bones of at least 13 saints. The chapel also contains other precious relics, including an icon of Christ Pantocrator.

Ways to explore

Set in the historic Lateran Palace, the Scala Santa is part of city tours devoted to early Christianity and sites considered sacred, including landmarks such as the papal basilicas and ancient catacombs. Although you can visit independently, joining a private or small-group guided tour gives you the advantage of additional historical context and makes transportation around the city easy. Some tours also include skip-the-line access to the Vatican Museums, the Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter’s Basilica.

Accessibility

Visitors must climb the Holy Stairs on their knees, so the site is not wheelchair accessible.

Age limits

While there is no minimum age to climb the Holy Stairs, this pilgrimage destination is appropriate for older children who are able to climb on their knees.

What to pack

Rosary or other prayer aids, small Bible

What to wear

Loose-fitting clothing, knee pads

Not allowed

Climbing on foot, clothing that does not cover knees and shoulders

Amenities

Sancta Sanctorum audio guide, bookshop

Address

The Holy Stairs (Scala Sancta) and Sancta Sanctorum are part of the Basilica of St. John Lateran complex situated in Rome’s Monti neighborhood, a short walk from several of the city’s most famous ancient ruins, including the Colosseum. The most convenient way to visit is as part of a Christian Rome tour that includes a stop here and at other significant sites.

Driving

The area around the Holy Stairs is known for its snarled traffic and lack of parking, so driving to the site is challenging. Opt for public transportation or a taxi, or join a guided tour that includes transportation.

Public transportation

Take metro line A from Rome’s main Termini train station to San Giovanni, about a 5-minute walk from Piazza di Giovanni in Laterano, where the Holy Stairs are located.

Best times to visit

The Holy Stairs are open daily 9am–1:30pm and 3–6:30pm, which coincides with the opening times of the Sancta Sanctorum chapel, as well. The steps are particularly crowded on Fridays during Lent, when many faithful make their pilgrimage.

Best days to visit

Sundays and religious holidays are the most popular days for pilgrimages to the Holy Stairs, so visit on a weekday for a quieter experience.

Best months to visit

Many pilgrims visit the Holy Stairs during Lent (the 40-day period leading up to Easter Sunday), so March and April are generally very crowded. The quietest months to visit this religious site are January and February.

Special events

Masses are held several times a day at the Holy Stairs, both on weekdays and on religious holidays, and many pilgrims time their visit to coincide with Mass.