
In 2025, Rome will be a city of profound significance, offering an exceptional opportunity for travelers to experience the Eternal City during the Catholic Church's Holy Year, or Jubilee. The Jubilee, a special event held every 25 years, is a time for pilgrimage, reflection, and spiritual renewal, and in 2025, it promises to be an extraordinary occasion, blending faith, culture, and history in a way that only Rome can offer.
What is the Jubilee Year?
The Jubilee Year is a Roman Catholic tradition where the faithful are invited to make a pilgrimage to Rome to receive special indulgences, attend religious ceremonies, and renew their faith. It is a year marked by the opening of the Holy Doors at St. Peter’s Basilica, the celebration of Mass, and numerous events across the city. Pilgrims and visitors who make the journey are encouraged to pray, repent, and seek spiritual growth, with a particular emphasis on charity and forgiveness.
While Jubilees are held every 25 years, they can also occur under special circumstances, such as the announcement by the Pope of an "Extraordinary Jubilee." The 2025 Holy Year is expected to be particularly poignant, as it will be the first since the pandemic, giving it a deeper sense of renewal and hope for the global Catholic community. The events for Jubilee will take place all year long so if you’re visiting Rome anytime during 2025, be sure to take note of what events will take place during your stay.

Highlights of the Jubilee Year in Rome
The Holy Door at St. Peter’s Basilica: One of the most significant rituals of the Jubilee Year is the opening of the Holy Door at St. Peter’s Basilica. This symbolic act marks the beginning of the Holy Year and serves as an invitation to spiritual renewal. Pilgrims who walk through the Holy Door are granted a special indulgence, an important part of Catholic tradition. The door opened on Christmas Eve and will now remain open throughout the year.
The Papal Audience and Masses: During the Jubilee Year, the Pope holds numerous public Masses and audiences, including the highly anticipated Christmas and Easter services. Visitors can attend these gatherings to witness the grandeur of the Vatican's religious life and experience a sense of global unity among the faithful. These Masses, usually held in St. Peter’s Square, can be a deeply moving experience for pilgrims and tourists alike.
Pilgrimage Routes and Sacred Sites: In addition to St. Peter’s Basilica, Rome is home to several important churches and shrines that are central to the Jubilee Year. Pilgrims will want to visit the four Major Basilicas of Rome, including:
St. Peter’s Basilica: The heart of the Vatican and the most significant site for any Catholic pilgrim.
St. John Lateran Basilica: The cathedral church of the Pope and one of the city’s most important historical churches.
St. Mary Major Basilica: A sanctuary dedicated to the Virgin Mary, with stunning mosaics and rich history.
St. Paul Outside the Walls Basilica: A monumental church dedicated to the Apostle Paul, offering a tranquil escape from the bustle of the city.
Another especially significant way to celebrate the Jubilee year is by walking the Via Francigena, the ancient pilgrimage route from Canterbury to Rome. You can enjoy meeting fellow pilgrims along this road to Rome by walking even a short section of the trail. You can organize this yourself or use a walking company to help you. For example, here is an option that covers the last seven days of the pilgrimage route into Rome.
A shorter pilgrimage would be to visit the Seven Pilgrim Churches of Rome, each of which is connected to centuries of Catholic faith and devotion. To visit all seven churches, you will walk about 20 kilometers.

The Holy Year Events and Celebrations: The Vatican will host a variety of events during the Jubilee Year, from religious ceremonies to cultural and educational activities. Special exhibitions, concerts, and talks will focus on the theme of reconciliation, peace, and solidarity. These events will bring a fresh and engaging dimension to the city’s traditional cultural life, making it an ideal time for visitors to combine their pilgrimage with exploration of Rome’s secular history and art. Keep an eye on the Vatican’s official calendar of events to ensure you don’t miss any special liturgies, papal audiences, or concerts.
Practical Tips for Visiting Rome in 2025
Plan in Advance: Due to the increased number of pilgrims expected in 2025, it’s essential to book accommodations and tickets well in advance. Consider staying in central Rome or near Vatican City for easy access to the major religious sites.
Respect Local Customs and Culture: Rome is a deeply religious city, and visitors should dress modestly when visiting churches and religious sites. Shoulders and knees should be covered, and respectful behavior is expected, particularly during religious services.
Embrace the Spiritual Atmosphere: The city’s spiritual ambiance will be especially profound during the Jubilee Year. Whether attending Mass, meditating in one of the many beautiful churches, or simply walking the paths of ancient pilgrims, embrace the unique blend of history and faith that makes Rome a deeply transformative place.
Visiting Rome during the Jubilee Year will be a once-in-a-life-time opportunity to experience the city in its most sacred and transformative light. Whether you go as a devout pilgrim seeking spiritual renewal or a curious traveler eager to explore the city’s rich history, culture, and art, the Jubilee will elevate your experience.
Rome’s timeless allure, combined with the unparalleled spiritual atmosphere of the Holy Year, will undoubtedly make your visit a profound and unforgettable journey—one that transcends borders, religions, and time itself.
PS. You can use my practical guide to Rome to plan where to stay and eat during your visit!