Jubilee Paths 2025: Pilgrimage to Rome

Jubilee 2025 in Rome: History, Curiosities, and Guide to Spiritual Pilgrimages

The Jubilee 2025 will be a deeply spiritual and historical event, bringing millions of pilgrims to Rome, the heart of Christianity. This Holy Year represents not only an opportunity for inner renewal but also a celebration of Catholic tradition rooted in centuries of history. Discover the origins, curiosities, and everything you need to know to make the most of this extraordinary experience.

What is the Jubilee? History and Origins of the Holy Year

The Jubilee or Holy Year is a special period in the Catholic Church dedicated to spiritual growth, solidarity, and reconciliation. It is an occasion to strengthen faith and obtain indulgences through acts of charity and penance. Each Jubilee, lasting one year, officially begins with the opening of the Holy Door at St. Peter's Basilica on Christmas Eve and ends on Epiphany. The next Jubilee will take place from December 24, 2024, to January 6, 2026.

The Jubilee can be ordinary or extraordinary, depending on whether it is tied to pre-established intervals or proclaimed for an event of particular importance.

The Jubilee is an event celebrated by the Catholic Church every 25 years (excluding extraordinary Jubilees), inspired by the Year of Jubilee described in the Hebrew Bible. The Catholic jubilee tradition officially began in 1300, when Pope Boniface VIII proclaimed the first ordinary Jubilee with the Bull Antiquorum Habet Fida Relatio, promoting brotherhood and inviting the faithful to come to Rome to receive plenary indulgence.

The overwhelming response from pilgrims led Boniface VIII to extend the indulgence period to the entire year and establish the Jubilee, initially celebrated every 100 years. Dante Alighieri, among other pilgrims, participated in the first Jubilee and later celebrated it in his masterpiece, the Divine Comedy. Clement VI later reduced the interval to 50 years and added new basilicas to visit. Subsequently, Urban VI modified the periodicity to 33 years. However, due to the high number of pilgrims, Boniface IX decided to anticipate a new Jubilee in 1400. After the Western Schism, Martin V declared the Holy Year and introduced distinctive elements such as commemorative medals and the opening of the Holy Door at St. John Lateran.

In 1470, Pope Paul II, through the papal bull 'Ineffabilis Providentia,' established a new era for the Jubilee, setting its recurrence at 25-year intervals. This interval was adopted starting from the Jubilee of 1475 under Sixtus IV. Only exceptional events, such as the Napoleonic occupation in 1800 and the Roman Republic in 1849, which forced Pope Pius IX into exile, disrupted this tradition.

Since then, the Jubilee has become a recurring event, enriched over the centuries with symbols and rituals. Among these, the Pope’s opening of the Holy Doors of the four major basilicas in Rome (St. Peter’s Basilica, St. John Lateran, St. Mary Major, and St. Paul Outside the Walls) remains one of the most significant and symbolic moments of the Jubilee. Passing through these doors symbolizes the journey towards redemption, salvation, and reconciliation with God.

Key Events in the History of Jubilees

• The First Jubilee of 1300: Pope Boniface VIII, during a period of great political and religious turbulence, inaugurated the first Jubilee to unite the faithful in a moment of peace and spirituality. According to many writers of the time, countless faithful visited Rome.
• The Jubilee of Mercy (2016): An extraordinary Jubilee proclaimed by Pope Francis, dedicated to mercy and forgiveness. For the first time, dioceses worldwide were granted the privilege of having their own Holy Doors, a tradition previously exclusive to Rome's four major basilicas.
• The Jubilee of 2000: Known as the "Great Jubilee," it marked the transition to a new millennium and commemorated 2,000 years since the birth of Jesus. Pope John Paul II emphasized the importance of peace and solidarity among nations. One of the Jubilee’s main events was the World Youth Day held in Rome from August 15 to 20, which brought together over two million young Catholics.

When Will the Next Jubilee Be Celebrated?

The next ordinary Jubilee will be Jubilee 2025, taking place from December 24, 2024, to January 6, 2026. This event is particularly anticipated because the previous ordinary Jubilee occurred 23 years ago, in 2000. Following the Jubilee 2025, the next ordinary Holy Year will be celebrated in 2050, maintaining the traditional 25-year cycle. However, Pope Francis could proclaim another extraordinary Jubilee, as he did in 2016.

Jubilee Curiosities: Traditions and Anecdotes

• Jubilee Coins: It is customary to mint commemorative coins for each Jubilee, many of which have become highly sought-after collector's items, such as the series of gold coins issued by the Vatican in anticipation of the Year 2000.
• The Pilgrimage on Foot: During the Middle Ages, pilgrims traveled hundreds of kilometers on foot or horseback to reach Rome, crossing mountains and facing dangers, driven by unwavering faith. This tradition continues today, with many pilgrims choosing to walk the ancient routes to Rome.
• The Jubilee and Art: Many works of art, such as Michelangelo's Pietà, were created in honor of jubilee celebrations, enriching the artistic heritage of the Church and humanity.
• An International Jubilee: In the Jubilee of 2000, Pope John Paul II celebrated World Youth Day in Rome, attracting millions of young people from all over the world, an event that marked a new era of globalization of faith.

The Holy Doors: Symbol of Grace and Renewal

The Holy Doors of the four major basilicas of Rome – St. Peter's, St. John Lateran, St. Mary Major and St. Paul Outside the Walls – are the symbol of the Jubilee. Passing through them represents a passage to a new life of grace. These doors are solemnly opened at the beginning of the Holy Year and remain accessible throughout the Jubilee. In particular, the opening by the Pope of the Holy Door of the Basilica of St. Peter, marks the beginning of the Jubilee. In the following days, the doors of the other Jubilee basilicas are opened around the world, and then closed at the end of the Jubilee. More details on Wikipedia.

Who can participate in the Jubilee?

The Jubilee is open to everyone, regardless of age, status or geographical origin. Everyone is invited to undertake a spiritual journey, both physical and inner, to experience the mercy of God.

Rome and the Jubilee: Unparalleled Hospitality

The Jubilee Churches in Rome

The Jubilee Churches of Rome are essential stops for pilgrims participating in the Jubilee. Alongside the four major basilicas, each with its Holy Door – St. Peter's Basilica, St. John Lateran, St. Mary Major, and St. Paul Outside the Walls – there are other churches that enrich the spiritual journey with their history and art.

St. Peter's Basilica, the heart of Christianity, is one of the most visited places in the world. Its imposing dome, designed by Michelangelo, dominates Rome's skyline, while Bernini's baldachin at the center of the basilica captivates visitors. According to tradition, St. Peter is buried directly beneath the high altar. (Learn more on Wikipedia).

St. John Lateran Basilica, the cathedral of Rome and the "mother of all churches in the world," is the first of the four papal major basilicas and the most ancient and important basilica of the West. It is renowned for its impressive baptistery and the statues of the apostles that adorn the central nave.

St. Mary Major Basilica, dedicated to the Virgin Mary, is the only basilica in Rome that has preserved its original Paleochristian structure, despite later additions. Inside, you can admire 5th-century mosaics depicting scenes from Christ's childhood and stories from the Old Testament. Tradition holds that the Virgin Mary appeared in a dream to the patrician John and Pope Liberius, indicating the Esquiline Hill as the site for a church dedicated to her. The miraculous snowfall on August 5, 358, confirmed the divine will and marked the perimeter of the future building.

St. Paul Outside the Walls Basilica, located along Via Ostiense, houses the relics of the Apostle Paul. This sacred site was rebuilt after a devastating fire on July 15, 1823, but retains the charm of its origins, thanks to the reconstruction ordered by Leo XII, who stated in a 1825 decree: "No innovation shall be introduced in the architectural forms and proportions, nor in the ornaments of the resurrected building." Today, one of the most beautiful and distinctive features of this basilica is the medallions depicting the popes of the Catholic Church, from St. Peter (the first on the right of the apse) to Pope Francis. A legend claims that once the series of portraits is complete, marking the end of space, it will signify the end of the papacy, the Catholic Church, and, consequently, Rome and the world. (Learn more on Wikipedia).

In addition to the major basilicas, other Jubilee churches such as St. Lawrence Outside the Walls, Holy Cross in Jerusalem, and St. Sebastian Outside the Walls offer pilgrims places for prayer and reflection. Together, these churches form the traditional itinerary of the “Seven Churches.” The importance of the pilgrimage during the Jubilee is reflected in this penitential path established by St. Philip Neri in the 16th century. Thus, visiting each of these churches provides an opportunity to experience the Jubilee indulgence.

Key Jubilee Events

Rome will be alive with liturgical celebrations, prayer gatherings, concerts, and art exhibitions, creating a rich calendar of events for all participants.

The Jubilee offers a unique opportunity for the faithful worldwide to participate in solemn celebrations, religious events, and spiritual gatherings in some of Rome's most iconic locations. Among the main events planned for the 2025 Jubilee are liturgical celebrations, extraordinary papal audiences, and collective moments of reflection and prayer.

The official opening of the Jubilee will take place with the Holy Door Opening Ceremony at St. Peter's Basilica, scheduled for December 25, 2024, Christmas Day. This symbolic rite, in which the Pope opens the Holy Door, marks the beginning of the Jubilee year, inviting the faithful to pass through it as a gesture of reconciliation and spiritual renewal. The opening of the Holy Door at St. Peter's Basilica will be the first of the Jubilee events, with 65,000 attendees expected. On December 26, the Holy Door will be opened at Rebibbia Prison, followed by St. John Lateran on December 29, St. Mary Major on January 1, and St. Paul Outside the Walls on January 5.

A crucial event will be the World Day of Peace, celebrated on January 1, 2025, with the theme “Forgive Us Our Debts, Grant Us Your Peace.” On this day, the Pope will lead a special prayer for world peace, urging leaders and people of all nations to promote dialogue and universal fraternity.

The Jubilee will also feature an extraordinary initiative: the “Paths of Faith.” Inspired by the ancient traditions of medieval pilgrims, this event proposes seven routes leading to Rome, which can be considered the "Jubilee Routes of the Churches in Italy." These include the northern and southern Via Francigena, the Way of St. Francis, the Via Lauretana, the Via Amerina (Path of Light), the Via Romea Strata, and the Via Matildica. Pilgrims are encouraged to walk at least 100 kilometers or cycle 200 kilometers on any of these Jubilee paths, even without necessarily reaching Rome. Upon completing the required kilometers, they will receive the "Testimonium" (downloadable via an app).

The Youth Jubilee, scheduled from July 28 to August 3, 2025, will be a major highlight. During this week, Rome will host meetings, concerts, catechesis sessions, and liturgical celebrations dedicated to young people, focusing on their role in the Church and the world. August 1 will feature a penitential day at the Circus Maximus, followed by entertainment and a vigil with the Holy Father at Tor Vergata on August 2, culminating in a closing Mass on August 3.

The Assumption Day Angelus, on August 15, 2025, will be another significant event. On this date, dedicated to the Assumption of Mary, the Holy Father will lead a special Marian prayer and Eucharistic celebration in St. Peter's Square.

Finally, the Jubilee will conclude with the Closing Ceremony and the Closing of the Holy Door at St. Peter's Basilica, scheduled for January 6, 2026, the Feast of the Epiphany. This act will mark the end of the Jubilee year, encouraging the faithful to carry forward the spiritual fruits gained during this intense period.

These events represent only a portion of the rich calendar that will characterize the 2025 Jubilee, offering pilgrims unique opportunities to experience faith, culture, and fellowship with the global Christian community.

Accommodation and Bookings During the Jubilee

Finding accommodation in Rome during the Jubilee can be challenging due to the influx of millions of pilgrims. It is highly recommended to book well in advance, especially for those wishing to stay near the main Jubilee sites like the Vatican. The city offers a wide range of options, from affordable convents to luxury hotels, as well as hostels and rental apartments. Planning ahead will ensure a smooth and hassle-free stay.

Getting to Rome for the Jubilee

Rome, the eternal city and vibrant heart of Italy, is easily accessible from all parts of the world by international flights, high-speed trains, or buses.

Rome and the Jubilee: An Unmatched Welcome

The Jubilee Routes: A Journey of Faith and Beauty

The religious Jubilee routes, such as the Via Francigena, the Via di Francesco, and the Via Romea Germanica, are intertwined with centuries of history, spirituality, and culture. Traveled by monarchs, saints, pilgrims, and adventurers, these paths tell stories of faith, devotion, and discovery. One of the first historical references to the Via Francigena dates back to the journey of Bishop Sigeric of Canterbury, who in 990 meticulously documented the 79 stages of his pilgrimage from Canterbury to Rome, providing a detailed description of the stopping points and leaving us with a valuable testimony of how the route was already a spiritual and cultural crossroads. Along this route, cities such as Pavia, Vercelli, Lucca, Siena, and Viterbo became vital centers of hospitality for pilgrims, where monasteries offered refuge and comfort. (Read more about Sigeric on Wikipedia).

The Via di Francesco, on the other hand, is deeply linked to the figure of Saint Francis of Assisi, who traveled through the Umbrian and Tuscan hills to preach a message of peace and universal brotherhood. This path, which connects the most significant places in the life of the "Poverello of Assisi," is about 500 km long, starting from the Sanctuary of La Verna, in the province of Arezzo, and reaching Rome. Through enchanting natural landscapes, pilgrims have the opportunity to live a profound and authentic experience and immerse themselves in Franciscan spirituality.

The Via Romea Germanica represents the route that connected the countries of Northern Europe to the Eternal City. It was used by Germanic pilgrims and the emperors of the Holy Roman Empire. It retraces the journey of Abbot Albert of Stade, who in 1236 went on pilgrimage to the Tomb of the Apostle Peter and described it in a detailed travel diary. Today, the Via Romea Germanica is walkable and cyclable. Pilgrims traveling this route passed through forests, rivers, and ancient towns like Bressanone and Trento, which still preserve traces of their passage. (Learn more about the Via Romea Germanica on Wikipedia).

These routes were not only roads to Rome, but also pathways for cultural and commercial exchange, along which ideas, arts, and technologies were transmitted. In addition to pilgrims, merchants, artists, and scholars also traveled these routes, bringing with them the richness of European diversity.

Major Starting Points and Sections of the Jubilee Routes

Each Jubilee route offers various starting points, depending on the preferences and available time of each pilgrim. The Via Francigena, for example, can be started from cities like Siena or Viterbo, with distances of about 280 kilometers (approximately 15 days) and 110 kilometers (5-7 days) from Rome, respectively. This section is characterized by gentle hills, medieval villages, and typical landscapes of the Lazio countryside.

For those choosing the Via di Francesco, Assisi represents a symbolic and spiritual starting point. From here to Rome is about 250 kilometers, which can be covered in about two weeks, passing through beautiful routes immersed in the nature of Umbria and Lazio, encountering forests, hermitages, and artistic cities like Spoleto and Rieti.

The Via Romea Germanica stretches through a long European route that crosses the Alps and reaches Trento. However, for a shorter and more symbolic section in Italy, many pilgrims choose to start from Cortona, about 270 kilometers from Rome, which can be covered in about 14 days. This section is distinguished by its historical character and the alternation of natural landscapes and culturally significant monuments.

Each route has its identity, offering not only a physical challenge but also the opportunity to immerse in a journey rich in faith, history, and natural beauty. Regardless of the distance, the pilgrim will always be accompanied by dedicated signs, hospitality along the way, and a network of facilities designed to meet their needs.

Benefits of a Jubilee Journey

Embarking on a Jubilee journey means living a unique experience that combines the beauty of nature and art with spiritual renewal. These routes offer the opportunity to meet people from all over the world, sharing common stories and values.

Discover More with Our Guides and Maps

To accompany you on your Jubilee journey, we offer paper and digital guides, intuitive apps, and detailed maps of the Via Francigena, Via di Francesco, and Via Romea Germanica. Each tool is designed to make your pilgrimage an unforgettable and meaningful experience. Get ready to live the Jubilee 2025 with us. Whether you choose to walk, pray, or simply explore, your journey to Rome will be a unique opportunity for spiritual and personal growth.