The Colosseum and the Roman Forum
A reminder of the grandeur of ancient Rome, the Irish College is located just a 10-minute walk from the breathtakingly magnificent and historic Colosseum.
Adjacent to it, the Roman Forum sprawls across a vast area, filled with ruins of temples, basilicas, and government buildings that once served as the political, social, and economic heart of the Roman Empire.
Tickets for the Colosseum and the Roman Forum should be bought via the official website: https://colosseo.it/
The Papal Basilica of St John Lateran
Located just a 5-minute walk from the college is the the Basilica of St. John Lateran, the oldest and most important of Rome’s four major basilicas.
As the official cathedral of the Pope and the seat of the Bishop of Rome, it holds the title “Archbasilica of the Most Holy Savior and Saints John the Baptist and John the Evangelist.” Its stunning façade, majestic interiors, and rich history make it a must-visit landmark, offering a glimpse into centuries of religious and artistic grandeur.
The Holy Steps Scala Sancta
Adjacent to the Basilica of John Lateran and just 5-minutes from the college, is the Holy Steps (Scala Sancta), one of the most revered Christian relics in Rome. The steps are are believed to be the very stairs that Jesus climbed during his trial before Pontius Pilate. Brought to Rome in the 4th century by St. Helena, the mother of Emperor Constantine, these 28 marble steps are now housed in a special sanctuary near the Basilica of St. John Lateran. Pilgrims from around the world ascend the steps on their knees in an act of devotion, seeking spiritual reflection and penance at this sacred site.
