Scala Santa(The Holy Stair)

Bucket list — checked!

The Holy Stair, located near the Basilica of Saint John Lateran, is a place of profound historical and spiritual significance. This Sanctuary houses the Sancta Sanctum, the old chapel of the Popes where you can venerate the image of the Holy Savior and, of course, the Holy Stairs themselves.

According to ancient Christian tradition, the praetorium of Pilate transported these 28 steps from Jerusalem to Rome in 326 at the behest of Empress Saint Helena, mother of Constantine. These steps are believed to be the ones that Jesus climbed several times on the day of his death sentence in the palace of Pontius Pilate. Hence, they are known as Scala Pilati or Scala Sancta.

I was quite surprised that not many tourists visit this place. It’s a hidden gem that evokes a whirlwind of emotions. I felt joy being there and a deep sadness contemplating Jesus’s suffering. The atmosphere is incredibly serene, almost as if the walls themselves whisper words of comfort and hope. The gentle light filtering through the ancient windows and the soft murmurs of prayer from other visitors create a calming, almost otherworldly ambiance. It’s a space where you can reflect, find solace, and feel a deep connection to something greater than yourself.