Every 25 years, the heart of Catholicism beats even stronger in Rome as the Vatican proclaims a Jubilee Year. This sacred tradition, dating back to 1300, transforms the Eternal City into a global sanctuary of faith, history, and cultural celebration. In 2025, declared the “Year of Hope,” Rome will once again become a place of pilgrimage for millions of visitors from around the world.
If you’re making a personal religious journey or hoping to experience the atmosphere of a city alive with spiritual significance, the Jubilee Year offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. And thoughtful planning is key to making the most of it.
Rome: The Epicenter of the Jubilee Year 2025 Pilgrimage
In the stillness of early morning, the cobblestone alleys of Rome glow beneath golden lamplight. Pilgrims, wrapped in quiet anticipation, move steadily toward St. Peter’s Square. The Holy Door, cast in bronze and steeped in centuries of ritual, stands open—an extraordinary sight revealed only once every 25 years.
The Vatican has designated 2025 as the Jubilee Year, themed “Year of Hope,” promising a season of grand liturgies, public celebrations, and a palpable sense of spiritual awakening. Rome, home to the four major papal basilicas, is at the heart of the experience. Pilgrims can expect sacred processions, open-air Masses, exhibitions of religious art and relics, and more.
The Sacred Act of Passing Through the Holy Doors
At the heart of the Jubilee Year 2025 lies one of Catholicism’s most symbolic rituals: the ceremonial passage through the Holy Doors. These immense doors—at St. Peter’s Basilica, St. John Lateran, St. Paul Outside the Walls, and Santa Maria Maggiore—remain sealed outside Jubilee years. When opened, they mark a spiritual threshold, inviting all who pass through to reflect on renewal and grace.
Crossing their threshold is more than symbolic. For Catholics, it opens the possibility of receiving a plenary indulgence—a complete remission of temporal punishment for sins already forgiven. For others, it’s an invitation to step into a tradition that has shaped lives for centuries.
How to Register for the Holy Door Pilgrimage
Participation in the Holy Door pilgrimage requires advance registration through the official Vatican Jubilee website.
Step-by-Step Guide to Registration:
- Register as an individual or as a group leader.
- Choose your preferred date and time.
- Arrive at the starting point in Piazza Pia at least 15 minutes early.
- Volunteers will provide a Jubilee cross and prayer sheets.
- The walk to the Holy Door takes approximately 20 minutes.
Important: All official Jubilee pilgrimages are free of charge. Be wary of any unauthorized parties requesting payment.
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Exploring Major Religious Sites in Rome During Jubilee Year
While the Holy Doors are central to the Jubilee, other sacred sites throughout Rome invite moments of reverence and discovery:
- St. John Lateran: The Pope’s cathedral and one of the oldest Christian churches in the world, its soaring nave and gilded ceiling offer a profound sense of awe.
- St. Paul Outside the Walls: Built over the tomb of the Apostle Paul, this grand basilica exudes solemnity beneath its shimmering mosaics.
- Santa Maria Maggiore: Devoted to the Virgin Mary, this basilica is a showcase of early Christian art and devotion, with radiant gold ceilings and historic relics.
- Scala Sancta (Holy Stairs): Believed to be the steps Jesus climbed during his Passion, the worn marble bears the imprint of centuries of faithful ascent—often on pilgrims’ knees, in silent prayer.
Cultural Customs & Etiquette for the Jubilee Year
A spirit of reverence and mindfulness enhances the Jubilee experience. When visiting churches or attending Masses, modest dress is essential—shoulders and knees should be covered. Within sacred spaces, maintain a quiet, reflective tone. Many visitors come seeking spiritual renewal; respect for their journey is part of your own.
Photography is often permitted, but flash use is discouraged, and some areas prohibit photos entirely. Look for signage or ask a volunteer if uncertain.
Understanding Italian customs will deepen your experience:
- Begin interactions with a greeting: “Buongiorno” (Good morning) or “Buonasera” (Good evening).
- Use polite expressions: “Per favore” (please) and “Grazie” (thank you).
- Respect local dining rhythms; restaurants often close between lunch and dinner.
- Maintain patience—Rome will be crowded, and flexibility is key to a fulfilling visit.
Beyond Rome: Pilgrimage Sites Across Italy
Assisi: Following the Footsteps of St. Francis
Nestled in the Umbrian hills, Assisi exudes peace. The birthplace of St. Francis is a haven of reflection, where the Basilica of St. Francis, adorned with Giotto’s frescoes, will host Jubilee events throughout 2025.
Florence: Where Faith and Art Converge
The Duomo’s iconic dome rises over Florence—a city where Renaissance artistry meets spiritual depth. Visit the hilltop church of San Miniato al Monte for sacred architecture and sweeping views of the Arno Valley.
Venice: Reflections in Gold and Water
In Venice, St. Mark’s Basilica glows with gilded mosaics. Beyond its grandeur, smaller churches and monastic islands offer spaces for quiet devotion, accessible only by boat and steeped in serenity.
Via Francigena: Walking a Path of History
The Via Francigena, an ancient pilgrimage route stretching from Canterbury to Rome, offers a journey through landscapes and legacies. Even a short walk along its path connects you with the footsteps of centuries of pilgrims—each one seeking something greater than themselves.
Jubilee Info Point & Accessibility Services
The Jubilee Info Point, located at Via della Conciliazione 7, is open daily from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM. It offers:
- Help with registration for Holy Door pilgrimages
- Multilingual support from trained volunteers
- Printed prayer guides and event maps
- Issuance of the Testimonium certificate for completing the pilgrimage
Accessibility Support:
A dedicated assistance point at Auditorium della Conciliazione (Via della Conciliazione, 4) offers:
- Wheelchair rentals and mobility support
- Personalized guidance for visitors with disabilities
- Access to the “Vatican for All” app for real-time accessibility information and sign-language resources
Watch the accessibility tutorial for disabled pilgrims here:
Note: The video is in Italian, but you can enable translated subtitles by following these steps:
Click the CC (closed captions) button at the bottom of the video to turn on subtitles.
Click the gear icon (Settings) in the lower-right corner of the video.
Select Subtitles/CC > Auto-translate.
- Choose your preferred language from the list.
When to Visit During the Jubilee Year
Whether you’re participating in the religious aspects of the Jubilee or simply visiting Italy during this special time, these tips will help you make the most of your experience:
- Book early: Accommodations in Rome and major pilgrimage cities fill quickly. Reserve hotels and train tickets well in advance.
- Start your days early: Mornings offer quieter visits to popular sites before crowds build.
- Be flexible: Expect road closures, detours, or unexpected crowds, especially near papal events.
- Stay updated: Monitor the official Vatican Jubilee website for schedule changes or announcements.
- Download helpful apps: The Vatican for All and Rome public transport apps can help with navigation and accessibility.
Exploring Italy During the Jubilee-Without a Religious Focus
Even if you’re not participating in religious observances, Italy during the Jubilee Year offers an incredible atmosphere:
- Take advantage of enhanced infrastructure: Rome is undergoing improvements to accommodate pilgrims—better roads, public restrooms, updated signage—which benefit all visitors.
- Visit lesser-known attractions: Explore Rome’s neighborhoods like Trastevere, Testaccio, or Monti for authentic local life away from the crowds.
- Plan cultural day trips: From Rome, take a train to Orvieto, Tivoli, or Lake Bracciano to enjoy art, food, and natural beauty without the religious focus.
- Travel off-season: Consider visiting in late fall or early spring, when crowds are lighter but the cultural richness is still on full display.
Plan Your Jubilee Experience
The Jubilee Year 2025 is more than an event—it’s an invitation to renewal. For travelers of faith, culture, or curiosity, it offers a rare window into the enduring rhythms of devotion and human connection.
Let us help you plan your pilgrimage. From accommodations and Holy Door registrations to custom travel guides and day-by-day itineraries, we make your journey seamless and meaningful.
Contact us today to begin your unforgettable Jubilee Year experience.
Jack Baumann
President of Guidester
Jack Baumann has lived and traveled throughout Europe for over 15 years, creating Guidester in 2014. Over the years Guidester has developed into a unique travel concierge and tour company helping travelers make the most of their trip to Europe.
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