Cathedral of John Lateran

The cathedral in Rome. It is the most important temple of the world Catholic diocese, the seat of the bishop of Rome and the papal throne.

The cathedral was founded by Emperor Constantine in 324, when he himself accepted the Christian faith. The cathedral acquired its modern appearance in the XVIII century as a result of the work of the architect Alessandro Galilei. On the balustrade of the temple there are 15 statues depicting Christ, John the Baptist and other saints. In the portico is an ancient statue of Emperor Constantine, which was found in the Imperial Baths in the Quirinal.

The 130-meter cathedral consists of five naves and is separated by ancient granite and marble columns dating back to the fourth century. Between them in niches are statues of saints made of white marble.

In the depths of the central nave is an impressive tabernacle (relic repository), decorated with twelve beautiful frescoes. The main relic of the cathedral is two gilded silver vases in the form of busts, in which the heads of the Apostles Peter and Paul are allegedly stored. Under the tabernacle is the place of confession, and on top there is a papal altar, in which only the Pope can celebrate Mass. In the cathedral you can admire the beautiful frescoes of Giotto and ancient mosaics.