Scala Santa

Ask ThatchGPT
Recommend a local expert to help plan my Italy trip
Suggest an unique itinerary for my Italy trip
What foods do Italy locals eat
What are some true hidden gems in Italy
Help me brainstorm trip ideas for Italy
Help me plan a family-friendly trip to Italy

What people say

"The Pontifical Sanctuary of the Holy Stairs, also known as the Scala Santa, is a sanctuary located in Rome, Italy. It is said to house the 28 steps that Jesus Christ climbed on his way to trial before Pontius Pilate in Jerusalem. The stairs were brought to Rome by Saint Helena, the mother of Emperor Constantine I, in the 4th century. The Holy Stairs are located in a small building next to the Lateran Palace. The stairs are covered in wood and are only accessible by ascending on one's knees. Many pilgrims come to the Holy Stairs to pray and to ask for forgiveness. The Pontifical Sanctuary of the Holy Stairs is a popular tourist destination. It is open to the public from 7:00 AM to 12:00 PM and from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM. Here are some of the key features of the Pontifical Sanctuary of the Holy Stairs: The 28 steps are said to be the same steps that Jesus Christ climbed on his way to trial before Pontius Pilate. The stairs were brought to Rome by Saint Helena, the mother of Emperor Constantine I, in the 4th century. The stairs are covered in wood and are only accessible by ascending on one's knees. Many pilgrims come to the Holy Stairs to pray and to ask for forgiveness. The Pontifical Sanctuary of the Holy Stairs is a popular tourist destination."
Joan Watson
"These are the stairs that Jesus walked up and down to face Pontius Pilate during his trial on Good Friday. Saint Helen, the mother of Constantine, went to the Holy Land to find the relics of Jesus’ life and build churches on the places he was born, died, and rose again. She brought back these stairs. These stairs are only climbed on one’s knees. As you pray up the stairs, think of the suffering Christ endured that day for you. The Holy Stairs are now covered with wood, which bears the mark of millions of pilgrims’ knees. You can put your hands through slits and touch the marble directly. The chapel at the top of the stairs was once the Pope’s private chapel, when he lived at the Lateran and this was part of his palace."
Myah Abraham
"You cannot miss one of the most emotional and spiritual places in Rome: the Holy Stairs. These are the steps Jesus walked up in down while He was being condemned. You get to climb up these stairs on your knees. I'd recommend paying the 2 euros (you will need it in cash) for the prayer booklet, so that you can pray a prayer on each step."

Mentioned in these guides

Rome, the eternal city, captivates visitors with its timeless allure and monumental history. Steeped in over 2,000 years of civilization, every corner tells a story of ancient empires, Renaissance art, and modern vitality. A visit to the Colosseum, the grand amphitheater that once hosted gladiatorial contests, offers a glimpse into the grandeur of ancient Rome, while the Roman Forum nearby serves as an open-air museum of political and social life in antiquity. Beyond the ruins, Vatican City beckons with the awe-inspiring St. Peter's Basilica and the Vatican Museums, home to Michelangelo's masterpiece, the Sistine Chapel ceiling. Wandering through Rome's cobblestone streets, visitors encounter an endless array of architectural marvels, from the majestic Pantheon to the elegant Spanish Steps. Each piazza invites leisurely strolls and indulgent dining experiences, where traditional trattorias serve up delectable Roman cuisine alongside world-class wines. Embrace the city's dolce vita spirit with a leisurely passeggiata along the Tiber River or a sunset vista from the romantic Gianicolo Hill. With its blend of ancient grandeur and modern charm, Rome promises an unforgettable journey through the heart of Italy's cultural legacy. This guide includes: - introductory note - places to visit (museums and cultural venues, open squares, and others) - photo spots Get to see more from my travels on my Instagram (@pedralexpereira) and Flickr (flickr.com/photos/pedralexpereira)
Accessibility • Backpacker • Car-free • Couples • Family • Groups • LGBTQ+ • Female Solo • Architecture • Art • Boutique • Budget • Coffee • Design • Foodie • History • Faith • Outdoors • Overlanding • People & Culture • Photography • Relaxation • Romantic • Slow Travel • Wellness
$10.00
10

About Scala Santa

Get the inside scoop on Scala Santa from local experts, travel creators, and tastemakers. Browse genuine trip notes, Scala Santa reviews, photos, travel guides, and itineraries from real travelers and plan your trip with confidence.
Save this spot for later or start mapping out a new trip today
Try our AI Travel Assistant and get instant answers to any questions about your trip.
Ask ThatchGPT