Just around the corner from the Roman Colosseum, await many hidden treasures that are often bypassed along the way to the next "popular tourist sight." Those unfortunate travelers have no idea what they are missing! On our last journey to Rome, we strayed off the beaten path to discover some amazing sights just as ancient as the Roman Forum, just as sacred as St. Peter's Basilica and just as spiritual as the Sistine Chapel. I invite you to visit again with me, these places of historical and religious significance.
Our first stop is San Giovanni in Laterano, a short way to the west of Colosseum. This basilica, constructed by Constantine, was the first built in Rome and was dedicated to the Savior on November 9, 313. Later in the 10th century, Pope Sergius III added St. John, the Baptist to the dedication and in the 12th century, Pope Lucius II added St. John, the Evangelist.
Despite quite a tumultuous history of destruction and rebuilding, the most interesting fact about this basilica is that it was the original seat to the Popes before they left for Avignon, France, in 1309 under the direction of Pope Clement V. When they returned to Rome in 1377, the Vatican became their new home.Inside and out, the basilica resembles St. Peter's a great deal especially the facade and the statuary adorning the top on the outside as well as the nave and baldacchino on the inside.
Actually, at the top of the baldacchino, built in 1369, lies a reliquary that supposedly contains the heads of Saints Peter and Paul. If you look closely at the front doors and providing you know a little history of the Roman Forum, you will discover that the bronze doors, 
oxidized green
presently, are actually those of the original Senate building in the Forum. Today, there are replicas on the Senate house.
We move from San Giovanni to just across the street to a very non—descript building that houses the "Holy Stairs" known as Scala Santa. Held most sacred by devout Catholics, these steps were sanctified by Jesus Christ himself during the Passion and at a time when they were originally located in a palace owned by Pontius Pilot. You will find that some worshipers traverse the steps up and down on their knees. Others can walk up if they so choose while still others just kneel and pray at the bottom step. Talk about a spiritual experience and truly, something to behold by all.
Traveling back to the east toward the Colosseum is the Basilica de San Clemente. Dedicated to St. Clement, the fourth Pope after St. Peter, this church is built on three levels. At the lowest level, you will find buildings from the 1st century including a pagan temple that is home to the Altar of Mithras. Then ascending to the level immediately above, you will discover a 4th century basilica containing ancient frescos from the 8th century as well as the nave still in tact. Finally at ground level, lies the 12th century basilica with a magnificent nave and 15th century frescos adoring the walls. Lots of history awaits the curious traveler in San Clemente. There is an amazing website that shows all the history that awaits the curious and adventuresome traveler. Learn more. 
Finally, just north of the Colosseum, is San Pietro in Vincoli or St. Peter in Chains. The basilica's name originates from a relic housed in the altar that is reputed to contain the actual chains that bound St. Peter during his trials in Jerusalem. Built in 432-440, the basilica is home to Michelangelo's famous Moses statue that was supposed to the centerpiece of the tomb of Pope Julius II but because Julius died before its completion, the tomb was left unfinished. Moses' face is believed to be a portrait of the master sculptor himself. 
Hidden treasures such as these mentioned here, as well as countless others await all of us adventurous explorers who are daring enough to stray off the beaten path! While the casual tourists are crowding the famous sites, these places offer very little crowds so there is plenty of time and space to get up close and personal to all that awaits our curiosity.
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