Basilica di San Giovanni in Laterano

Lonely Planet review

A huge white landmark, this monumental cathedral was founded by Constantine in 313 and consecrated 11 years later. It was the first Christian basilica to be built in the Rome and, until the late 14th century, was the pope's principal residence. The Vatican still has extraterritorial authority over it, despite it being Rome's official cathedral and the pope's seat as Bishop of Rome.

The most immediately eye-catching feature is Alessandro Galilei's huge façade, a mid-18th-century example of late baroque classicism. The original 4th-century façade, in contrast, was a much simpler affair. The bronze doors were moved here from the Curia in the Roman Forum, while to their right is the Holy Door that is only opened in Jubilee years.

The interior has been done up on numerous occasions and in 1646 Borromini turned his baroque talents to the job. His fingerprints are on the pillars in the nave and the sculptural frames around the funerary monuments in the aisles.

To the left of the altar, the beautiful cloister was built by the Vassalletto family in the 13th century.

Don't miss the domed baptistry (admission free, 07:30 - 12:30 & 16:00 - 19:30 ) around the corner. Like the basilica it was built by Constantine and served as the prototype for later Christian churches and bell towers.