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Several Roman churches house sacred relics linked by Christian tradition to the life and passion of Jesus.

The Basilica of the Holy Cross in Jerusalem contains pieces of the wood from the Cross and a nail from the crucifixion. Tradition connects these items to Saint Helena and her travels to the Holy Land. The church also holds a tablet attributed to the inscription placed above Jesus on the cross, known as the Titulus Crucis. The Scala Sancta, or Holy Stairs, consists of 28 steps that tradition says Jesus climbed in the palace of Pontius Pilate. Pilgrims continue to climb these steps on their knees for prayer.

St. Peter's Basilica holds various relics near the altar, including a piece of the True Cross attributed to Saint Helena, the veil used by Saint Veronica to wipe the face of Jesus, and the spear used by the soldier Longinus. The papal altar also features pieces of wood identified as parts of the manger from Bethlehem.