SCALA SANTA (Holy Staircase)

On eastern edge of the piazza is thought to be a relic brought to Rome in 326 from the Holy Land by St. Helena, mother of Constantine. 28 marble stairs said to be the very steps Christ climbed in Pontius Pilate’s palace in Jerusalem before his crucifixion. No foot is allowed to touch them, so they are covered by wooden boards which pious Christians ascend on their knees.