The Basilica, erected as early as Constantine, survived the raids and depredations of the Vandals of Genmerica, was badly damaged by the earthquake of 896 and numerous fires. Over the centuries it has been rebuilt and restored many times with the participation of architects such as Giovanni di Stefano, Francesco Borromini and Alessandro Galilei, who completely rebuilt the facade in 1735.
The Basilica of San Giovanni in Laterano is a powerful architectural structure of monumental Corinthian order. The slightly forward central building is decorated with a balustrade which enlivens the whole cathedral, giving it a distinctly Baroque colouring. Colossal statues of Christ, John the Baptist, John the Evangelist and the Teachers of the Church rise above the balustrade. There are five entrances to the church with loggias above them. The last entrance on the right is known as the Porta Santa (Holy Gate) and is used only on church holidays.
The main part of the cathedral dates from 1589, but some structures survive from more ancient times, such as the Rock of Santa (Sacred Staircase), which Christ used to ascend to Pilate's trial.
The majestic interior is a Latin cross with five naves. The sumptuous ceiling was supposedly painted by Pirro Ligorio. Along the walls are statues of prophets, saints and apostles, made to Borromini's sketches by his disciples in the 18th century. Where the central nave meets the transept is the heart of the Gothic cathedral, the tabernacle, designed by Giovanni di Stefano. The papal altar houses a precious relic, a rough wooden plaque that served St Peter to perform the rite of worship in the catacombs.
