Early Christian Churches of Pilgrimage

Scala Santa (Holy Stairs)

These are the steps believed to be climbed by Jesus for his execution. People who pilgrimage here prostrate themselves on each stair until they get to the top to show their deep devotion and this was very humbling to watch. The structure in the back is a private chapel for the pope dating between the 15th and 16th century. These stairs were said to have been brought by Saint Helena from Jerusalem whom was the mother of Emperor Constantine. No foot may touch the holy steps so they are covered by wooden boards.

St. Giovanni in Laterno (St. John's)

By far the most impressive church I saw besides the Vatican. On the front there are huge statues that are 19 ft. tall and a holy door can be seen which are doors only opened every 25 years.

The outside grand facade was actually not added till 1735 while the interior dates from the 17th century. Entering the church at the altar are silver busts of Peter and Paul along with relics. The aspe has mosaics but what is really extraordinary is the massive marble sculptures.

By far my favorite!

Each of these impressive sculptures shows how the saints died through the objects they are holding. For example one saint has a grid iron behind him since he was burned alive.