2Archbasilica of St. John Lateran

This had to be the greatest church of all time. But history was cruel – over the incredible 1700 years long history this church was demolished, burned, and just abandoned. It was rebuilt, extended, and changed almost beyond recognition.

It got a bitter rival and now is overshadowed by the nearby St. Peter’s Basilica. Nevertheless, formally no other church is as important as this one. And, yes, it is gorgeous and full of beautiful art indeed!