Sancta Sanctorum – full view
Holy of Holies in the Lateran Palace
Sancta Sanctorum – full view
VM number: 0060
Featured on Podcast: Listen to Podcast
Description: Full view of the Sancta Sanctorum in the Lateran Palace.
Century: 13th century
Photographer: Graham, Shala
Date Taken: 31/12/2022
Location: Palazzo Lateranense (Lateran Apostolic Palace)
Art Commentary: The small chapel, called the Holy of Holies (Sancta Sanctorum) is comprised of a gothic-styled altar room and main room. Access is restricted; visitors may view only through grilled windows. The main room features 13th century frescoes that narrate the martyrdoms of apostles Peter, Paul, Stephen, and saints Lawrence and Agnes. The altar room preserves precious relics from the 9th century and the portrait of Jesus which was painted by angels according to medieval legend. Additionally, the altar room features 13th century golden mosaics of Peter, Paul, Lawrence, and Agnes.
