Basilica of the Holy Cross in Jerusalem

The Basics

Basilica of the Holy Cross in Jerusalem is one of the Seven Pilgrim Churches of Rome, a pilgrimage route that the faithful made on foot. The main attraction of the church is of course the relics, said to have been carried from Jerusalem by the mother of Roman Emperor Constantine I, the St. Empress Helena, as well as the full-size replica of the Shroud of Turin. The church name comes from the Jerusalem soil that was laid on the floor of the basilica, as a way of moving part of the holy city to Rome.

Travelers may explore Basilica of the Holy Cross in Jerusalem as part of a half-day, full-day, private or group, walking or cycle tours of the city’s abundant holy sites including Basilica of Rome, Basilica of Saint Praxedis, Patriarchal Basilica of St. Mary Major, Santa Maria Maggiore, St. John Lateran, Church of Domine Quo Vadis, and the Scala Santa, a sacred marble staircase set within a chapel building brought from the Holy Land to Italy by St. Helena.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Suitable for art and architecture buffs of all ages.
• The church is free to enter and is wheelchair-friendly.
• Remember to wear modest clothing when entering any religious space in Italy.
• Comfortable shoes are a must, as tours require a fair amount of walking or biking.
• Tours may include round trip hotel transfers. Check specific tours for details.
• Tours are wheelchair friendly.

How to Get There

Basilica of the Holy Cross in Jerusalem is located at the Piazza di Santa Croce in the Esquilino quarter, close to the Aurelian Walls and the Castrense Amphitheatre, between the Basilica of St. John Lateran and Porta Maggiore. Take Metro A to the San Giovanni station and walk along the tree-lined Viale Carlo Felice.

When to Get There

Basilica of the Holy Cross in Jerusalem Avoid Rome’s dense tourist throngs by traveling during the pleasant shoulder seasons of spring and fall. Even better for avoiding crowds is the winter, though temperatures can dip to freezing.

Ways to explore

Most visitors to the Basilica of the Holy Cross in Jerusalem come to see the church’s relics, whether they’re following the pilgrimage route leading to the church or just plain sightseeing. This famous collection makes the basilica a key stop on religious tours of Rome; options include walking tours and excursions by car or golf cart. Follow up your visit with trips to the two nearest of the Seven Pilgrim Churches of Rome: the Basilica of Saint Mary Major and the Basilica of St. Lawrence Outside the Walls.

Accessibility

Visitors using wheelchairs can only partially access the basilica, as some spaces have steps or manual doors that may require assistance.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Coins for donations, camera

What to wear

As a place of worship, remember to wear modest clothing that covers your knees and shoulders.

Not allowed

Visitors are asked not to take phone calls or be noisy.

Address

The Basilica of the Holy Cross in Jerusalem is located at the Piazza di Santa Croce in the eastern Esquilino quarter, close to the Castrense Amphitheatre and Porta Maggiore. Public transportation and driving are the best ways to reach this more remote attraction.

Driving

Follow signs to the Porta Maggiore, taking Via Labicana from the direction of the Colosseum or Viale Pretoriano from the north. Search for street parking along Via di Santa Croce in Gerusalemme.

Public transportation

Take metro A to San Giovanni station and walk along the tree-lined Viale Carlo Felice, or ride the 3 tram to the stop outside the church.

Best times to visit

The church closes for much of the afternoon and is generally quieter in the morning.

Best days to visit

Only visit on Sundays if you wish to attend Mass. Weekdays are typically quieter than the weekend.

Best months to visit

While it usually sees fewer visitors than more central Rome churches, it’s still best to come during the less-busy shoulder seasons of spring and fall, or even winter.

Special events

The Feast of the Cross on September 14, with its special services, is the most important holiday for the church because it celebrates the discovery of relics associated with the church.