Jubilee 2025 in Rome
The Jubilee 2025 in Rome is an event of paramount importance for the Catholic Church, awaited by millions of faithful around the world. This event occurs every 25 years and offers believers a unique opportunity to renew their faith, to get closer to God, and to obtain plenary indulgence through pilgrimage and prayer, especially by passing under the Holy Door of Saint Peter.
Rome, the spiritual heart of Christianity, is once again at the center of this exceptional moment, welcoming pilgrims and tourists from all walks of life.
With nearly 32 million pilgrims expected, it is necessary to offer you our practical advice to help you move serenely during this busy period.
Key dates of the Jubilee 2025:
• Opening of the Jubilee: the Jubilee officially began on December 25, 2024, with the solemn opening of the Holy Door at St. Peter’s Basilica. This event symbolizes the beginning of the jubilee year and traditionally attracts thousands of faithful.
• Closing of the Jubilee: the Jubilee will end on January 6, 2026, the day of Epiphany. On this occasion, the Holy Door will be closed again, marking the end of this year of grace.
• Other important events: in addition to the major ceremonies, moments like Easter, Pentecost and All Saints’ Day will be particularly intense, with special celebrations, open-air masses and papal blessings.
The must-see places for the pilgrimage:
• St. Peter’s Basilica
True epicenter of the Jubilee, St. Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican is the most emblematic place for pilgrims. It was here that Pope Francis opened the Holy Door, a symbolic gesture marking the beginning of the Jubilee. This door, normally walled in, is open exclusively during the jubilee years. Crossing the Holy Door is a deeply spiritual act of faith, signifying a passage towards forgiveness and renewal.
• The four major basilicas
The pilgrimage to the four major basilicas is an essential tradition during the Jubilee. In addition to Saint Peter’s, the basilicas of Saint Paul Outside the Walls, Saint John Lateran and Saint Mary Major where Pope Francis is buried also welcome the faithful. As at Saint Peter’s, Holy Doors are opened in these basilicas to allow pilgrims to renew their spiritual commitment.
• The Pilgrim’s Way
One of the oldest traditions is to take the Pilgrim’s Way through the city of Rome. This is a route that connects the main basilicas and shrines. This journey allows believers to walk in the footsteps of thousands of pilgrims who, over the centuries, have followed these same routes in a spirit of recollection and prayer.
When to visit Rome during the Jubilee?
– The moments of great affluence
Periods like Christmas, Easter, and All Saints’ Day will be particularly popular, with a very large influx of pilgrims coming from around the world to participate in the great celebrations. If you wish to experience these major spiritual moments, be ready to face large crowds and book well in advance.
– The calmer periods
For those who prefer to avoid the crowds, it is advisable to visit Rome in January, February, or during the autumn months (September to November). During these periods, Rome is quieter, and it is easier to enjoy the religious and tourist sites without the long queues.
– Special events
If you would like to participate in specific events, such as papal audiences, special blessings, or open-air masses, check the official Vatican calendars to plan your stay accordingly.
Reservation and logistics:
• Book in advance
Whether for flights, accommodation, or sightseeing, it is crucial to book several weeks in advance. Hotels, B&Bs and pilgrim accommodations are likely to be full quickly, especially in areas close to the Vatican such as Prati, Borgo, and Trastevere. If you prefer cheaper accommodation, consider religious housing or youth hostels.
• Transport in Rome
Rome has a well-developed public transport network, including buses, trams and metro lines. However, with the influx of pilgrims, transport may be saturated during certain periods. Consider buying tourist passes that offer unlimited access to public transport. For more comfort, it may be useful to choose accommodation close to the main religious sites to be able to move on foot.
• Assistance and information for pilgrims
Rome has set up information centers dedicated to pilgrims, where you can get maps, practical advice, and information about the events of the Jubilee. There are also mobile applications, such as the official Jubilee application, to keep you informed in real time of ceremonies and celebrations.
Services map for pilgrims:
The Services Card is online. This is a special version of the Pilgrim’s Card that offers specific discounts and benefits to those who participate in the Jubilee 2025. The Services Card is free and offers a series of advantages in different fields:
– Insurance: for a pilgrimage in complete safety.
– Hospitality: lower cost solutions for stays and accommodation.
– Food: special meal and catering offers.
– Official merchandise: discounts on products related to the Jubilee.
– Transport and mobility: lower rates for travel and local transportation.
– Communication: special offers to stay always connected.
Also remember that to obtain the Pilgrim’s Card, and by extension the Services Card, it is necessary to register on the official portal of the Jubilee. Once the registration is completed, each pilgrim will receive a personalized QR Code that will allow him to participate in jubilee events and access the benefits related to the Service Card.
Useful resources and contacts for pilgrims during the Jubilee of Rome 2025:
– Official Jubilee website: check the site for updates on events, venues and times of celebrations.
– Application Jubilaeum 25: download this application to receive live updates of the ceremonies, maps of important places and practical information in real time.
– Information centres for pilgrims: spread throughout the city, these reception centres dedicated to pilgrims offer maps, practical advice and information on Jubilee events. You will find guides, schedules and answers to all your questions.
