Basilica, erected by Constantine still, experienced raids and looting Genmerika vandals, was severely damaged by an earthquake 896 years and numerous fires. Over the centuries it has repeatedly rebuilt and restored, with the participation of architects such as Giovanni Di Stefano, Francesco Borromini and Alessandro Galilei, who in 1735 completely rebuilt the facade.

Basilica of San Giovanni in Laterano - is a powerful architectural structure of monumental Corinthian. Several protruding central body is decorated with a balustrade that animates the whole church, giving it a distinct Baroque painting. Above the balustrade rise colossal statues of Christ, John the Baptist, John the Evangelist and the Doctors of the Church. In the church are five entrances to the balconies above them. Last entrance on the right is known as the Porta Santa (Holy Gate) and is used only for religious holidays.

The main part of the cathedral dates back to 1589, but some buildings survived from earlier times, such as Scala Santa (Holy Stairs), on which Christ was raised at the court of Pilate.

The majestic interior is a Latin cross plan with five naves. Luxury ceiling was supposedly painted by Pirro Ligorio. Along the walls are statues of prophets, saints and apostles performed on sketches by Borromini his disciples in the XVIII century. Where the central nave is crossed with a transept, is the heart of the Gothic Cathedral - a tabernacle, made by Giovanni di Stefano. The papal altar is kept precious relic - a rough wooden board that served as Peter's for the rite of worship in the catacombs.