Scala Santa and Chapel of San Lorenzo Tours

Containing 28 steps in total, the Scala Santa (which translates to Holy Steps) are believed to have been carried from Jerusalem to Rome by St. Helena in the year 326. Many make religious pilgrimages to this site, as the white marble steps are said to be those walked upon by Jesus Christ during the Passion.
It is believed that the steps of Scala Santa once led to the Praetorium of the palace of Pontius Pilate in Jerusalem, where Jesus was condemned. St. Helena brought them to Rome to her son, the emperor Constantine, who was building a basilica. The stairs were installed and still lead to the Sancta Sanctorum or Chapel of San Lorenzo, the private chapel of early popes. The interior of the chapel is richly decorated with frescoes depicting both the Old and New Testament.
Today the steps are protected by a wooden boards in the old Lateran palace and by tradition must be ascended on the knees. Over the centuries, several popes have participated in this devotion.

Practical Info

Scala Sancta (the Holy Stairs) is open daily from 6 am to 1 pm and 3 pm to 7 pm. There is no charge for admission, and no reservation needed. To access the Sancta Sanctorum there is a €3.50 admission fee.  Both are located in the Rione Monti of Rome at Piazza di San Giovanni in Laterano 14. The closest metro stop is San Giovanni.