Scala Santa (Holy Stairs) Rome
Ascend the 28 sacred marble steps on your knees, a profound pilgrimage site in Rome.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Scala Santa (Holy Stairs) Rome
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Ascend the 28 sacred marble steps on your knees, a profound pilgrimage site in Rome.
"It is certainly humbling to see that statue and then... go up the stairs twice."
🙏 Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders and knees to show respect at this holy site.
🚶♀️ Kneel for the Climb
Ascend the 28 steps on your knees for a traditional pilgrimage experience.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The 28 Marble Steps
Scala Santa
Ascend these sacred steps on your knees, a profound pilgrimage for the faithful.
Chapel of San Lorenzo
Top of the Scala Santa
The papal chapel at the summit, offering a serene and spiritual conclusion to the ascent.
Kiss of Judas Sculpture
Scala Santa
A powerful marble sculpture by Ignazio Jacometti, depicting a significant biblical moment.
Planning Your Visit
Respectful Attire is Key
Ascending the Holy Stairs
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🙏 Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders and knees to show respect at this holy site.
🚶♀️ Kneel for the Climb
Ascend the 28 steps on your knees for a traditional pilgrimage experience.
Kiss of Judas Sculpture at Scala Sancta (Holy Stairs), Rome, Italy
🤫 Be Quiet and Reverent
Maintain a respectful atmosphere; it's a place of prayer and reflection.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Rome can be hot; carry water, especially if you plan to spend time here.
Pray at the Holy Stairs in Rome if you get the chance!
Tips
from all over the internet
🙏 Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders and knees to show respect at this holy site.
🚶♀️ Kneel for the Climb
Ascend the 28 steps on your knees for a traditional pilgrimage experience.
🤫 Be Quiet and Reverent
Maintain a respectful atmosphere; it's a place of prayer and reflection.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Rome can be hot; carry water, especially if you plan to spend time here.
📸 Photo Etiquette
Be mindful of others praying; avoid intrusive photography.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Scala Santa a deeply moving and spiritually significant site, with many undertaking the traditional climb on their knees. While some find the physical act challenging, the overall experience is described as humbling and profound. The sacred atmosphere and historical importance are frequently praised. +1
"Saint place for the Christians. Very nice, massive pice of history. Located near the Basilica of Saint John Lateran, the Sanctuary houses the Sancta Sanctorum, the old chapel of the Popes where you can worship the image of the Holy Saviour and the Holy Stairs.According to an ancient Christian tradition, in 326, the Holy Stairs were was transported from Jerusalem to Rome by the praetorium of Pilate at the behest of Empress Saint Helena, mother of Constantine.According to the same tradition, the 28 steps of the Holy Stairs are precisely the same ones that Jesus climbed several times on the day of his death sentence in the palace of Pontius Pilate. Hence the name of Scala Pilati or Scala Sancta.Initially, the stairs were in the Patriarchium, the complex of the Lateran Palaces, and the ancient seat of the Popes. It was Pope Sixtus V Peretti who, in 1589, had them moved to the current building and had four flights of stairs built by the architect Domenico Fontana, with the Scala Santa in the center.
Every Friday of Lent, it is customary to go up the steps of the Holy Stairs on your knees praying as an act of devotion to relive the passion of Christ and ensure plenary indulgence from sins.
At the top of the last step, protected by a massive railing, is the ancient private oratory of the Popes, at least until the Renaissance: the Chapel of San Lorenzo in Palatio, called the Sancta Sanctorum for the many relics of saints that it keeps.
This beautiful chapel was enriched and embellished over time by various popes. Pope Nicholas III was responsible for the current arrangement with the precious frescoes painted by the 13th-century Roman school, the completion of the mosaic above the altar, and the beautiful floor in Cosmatesque style.
On the wall behind the altar is the Holy Saviour Acheropìta “Acheropita” (not painted by human hands), depicted while sitting on the throne with his right-hand blessing and the scroll of the Gospel in his left. The millenary icon is among the most loved and revered symbols in the world.Under the papal altar, is the ark that houses the treasure and the relics of the Sancta Sanctorum."
Misiu martino
"St. Helena, (Emperor Constantine’s mother) brought the 28 marble steps of Pontiac Pilate’s palace in Jerusalem. There are stairs where Jesus climbed when he was sentenced to death. Now steps are covered with wood with small glass covered holes showing the stains of Jesus’ blood. Visitors can climb these steps on their knees. There are side other side steps for normal cluse. No photographs allowed inside the church. The visitors are required to wear modest dress; clothes covering shoulders and knees. Wheelchair access available to this church. The location is in front of Lateran Basilica."
Josey V Robert
"Free, no need to buy a ticket.
Try to step up stair with your knee. It’s special moment and hope you will feel something amazing, mercy of God.
No photo inside and should be quite.
The location is just in front of Lateran Basilica.
Pay attention with heir opening hour.
The best time is early morning before many tourist come."
Ronnie Maria
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Scala Santa is located near the Archbasilica of Saint John in Laterano. You can reach it by taking the Metro Line A to the San Giovanni station. Several bus lines also stop nearby.
Yes, it's very accessible. The San Giovanni metro station is just a short walk away, making it convenient to reach from various parts of Rome.
The nearest metro station is San Giovanni, on Line A of the Rome Metro system.
It's a bit of a walk, approximately 25-30 minutes, but it's a pleasant route through the city if you enjoy walking.
Yes, taxis are usually available in the vicinity, especially near the San Giovanni metro station and the Archbasilica.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the Scala Santa itself is generally free. However, there might be separate charges for specific exhibits or guided tours if available.
The opening hours can vary, but it's typically open from morning until early evening. It's best to check the official website or recent visitor information for the most up-to-date Holy Stairs Rome opening hours.
No, there is no entrance fee to climb the Holy Stairs. The act of climbing is considered a devotion.
Yes, climbing the stairs on your knees is a traditional devotion for pilgrims. Many visitors choose to do this as a form of prayer.
Yes, a modest dress code is expected. Shoulders and knees should be covered out of respect for the sacred nature of the site.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
The time it takes can vary greatly depending on your pace and the number of people. Some visitors report it takes about 30-45 minutes to ascend all 28 steps with prayers.
There isn't a strict requirement for specific prayers, but many people recite the Our Father, Hail Mary, or Glory Be at each step. It's a personal devotion.
No, you cannot go down the Scala Santa. There are separate stairs for descending, usually to the right of the Holy Stairs.
It can get crowded, especially during peak tourist seasons or religious holidays. Weekday mornings or late afternoons might offer a less crowded experience.
Restroom facilities may be limited directly at the Scala Santa, but you can usually find them in the nearby Archbasilica of Saint John in Laterano.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally permitted, but it's important to be discreet and respectful, especially when others are praying or ascending the stairs.
Late afternoon can offer beautiful lighting as the sun begins to set, creating a warm glow on the marble.
It's not advisable to take photos while climbing on your knees, as it can be difficult and disruptive. It's better to take photos before or after your ascent.
While not always explicitly stated, it's good practice to avoid using flash photography out of respect for the solemn atmosphere and other visitors.
The base of the stairs offers a good vantage point, as does the landing at the top. Capturing the entire staircase from the bottom is iconic.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🙏 Devout Catholics & Pilgrims
🏛️ History & Art Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Significance of the Scala Santa
This sacred staircase is part of a larger complex that includes the Chapel of San Lorenzo at the top, offering a place for quiet contemplation after the arduous climb.
When visiting, remember the profound history and religious significance of the Scala Santa. The act of climbing is more than just a physical journey; it's a spiritual one.
Pilgrimage and Devotion
Many travelers share their intention to undertake this pilgrimage, highlighting the personal significance of the visit.
If you plan to ascend on your knees, wear comfortable clothing and be prepared for the physical effort.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit