The Scala Santa (Holy Stairs) is a staircase of 28 steps that tradition identifies with the one in Pontius Pilate's palace in Jerusalem, climbed by Jesus before his condemnation. According to tradition, Saint Helena, mother of Emperor Constantine, brought it to Rome in the 4th century. For centuries pilgrims have climbed it on their knees, in silence and prayer. The sanctuary, right opposite the Basilica of St John Lateran, is open every day; climbing is free. Allow 30 to 45 minutes including the Sancta Sanctorum.
Highlights
The pilgrims' staircase
The 28 marble steps have been covered in wood since 1724 to protect them from wear. They are climbed only on one's knees, step by step, in silence. Two side staircases let you walk up, without ceremony, if you don't wish to follow the rite.
The Sancta Sanctorum
At the top, the popes' former private chapel keeps frescoes commissioned by Nicholas III (1277-1280), a Cosmatesque floor and an icon of Christ dated to the late 5th or early 6th century. Entry is paid separately.
The staircase frescoes
The walls and vaults along the climb are decorated with late 16th-century frescoes of the Passion, commissioned under Sixtus V, who had the sanctuary rebuilt.
The Basilica of St John Lateran
Right opposite, Rome's cathedral naturally completes the visit: see our page on St John Lateran.
San Clemente 10 minutes away
The Basilica of San Clemente, with its superimposed levels, is about ten minutes on foot.
Practical info
Tips
Climbing the Scala Santa is free and needs no booking; the Sancta Sanctorum costs €3.50 (reduced €3 for ages 6-18, students and over-65s), paid on the spot (prices observed in October 2026). Shoulders and knees must be covered; photos, video and video calls are forbidden in the sanctuary. Go early in the morning: the pilgrim queue is longer late in the morning and the climb on knees is slow. The sanctuary has had restoration work in recent years: check on site or on the official website that the stairs and the Sancta Sanctorum are open on the day of your visit. See also our guide to Pilgrimage in Rome and the dress code for churches.
How to get there
Piazza di San Giovanni in Laterano 14, 00184 Rome, opposite the basilica. San Giovanni metro (lines A and C), 5 minutes on foot. Buses 16, 360 and 714 from Termini station; 81, 85, 87 and 850 from Piazza Venezia.
Opening hours
Nearby
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