The Basilica erected by Constantine, survived the raids and looting vandals Generika suffered severely from the earthquake of 896 years and numerous fires. For centuries it was repeatedly rebuilt and restored with the participation of architects such as Giovanni di Stefano, Francesco Borromini and Alessandro Galilei, who in 1735, has completely transformed the facade.

Basilica di San Giovanni in Laterano is a powerful monumental architectural structure of the Corinthian order. Several protruding Central building is decorated with a balustrade, which animates the whole Cathedral, giving it a distinct Baroque painting. Above the balustrade rise from the colossal statues of Christ, John the Baptist, John the Evangelist and Teachers of the Church. The Church has five entrances with balconies above them. The last known entrance to the right called Porta Santa (Holy Gates) and is used only on religious holidays.

The main part of the Cathedral dates back to the year 1589, but some structures have survived from more ancient times, for example, the Scala Santa (Holy staircase), by which Christ was raised at the court of Pilate.

The majestic interior is a Latin cross with five naves. Luxurious ceiling was supposedly painted by Pirro Ligorio. Along the walls are statues of Prophets, Saints and Apostles, executed after designs by Borromini his disciples in the eighteenth century. Where the Central nave crossed by a transept, is the heart of the Gothic Cathedral - the tabernacle, made by Giovanni di Stefano. The papal altar is stored precious relic - a rough wooden Board that served as St. Peter for rituals of worship in the catacombs.