Rome during a Jubilee year

Visiting Rome during a Jubilee year is a special and spiritually enriching experience, especially when it involves passing through the Holy Doors of the four major basilicas. Here’s a suggested 5-day itinerary to help you make the most of this pilgrimage while exploring the Eternal City.

Day 1: Arrival and Orientation

• Morning:
  • Arrive in Rome and settle into your accommodation. Choose a central location near Vatican City or the historic center for convenience.
  • Visit a local parish or smaller church for quiet prayer and reflection.
• Afternoon:
  • Take a walking tour of Piazza Navona, Pantheon, and Campo de’ Fiori to understand Rome’s historic charm.
• Evening:
  • Enjoy dinner in Trastevere, a neighborhood full of charm and great Italian cuisine.

Day 2: St. Peter’s Basilica (San Pietro)

• Morning:
  • Head to St. Peter’s Basilica early to avoid long lines.
  • Pass through the Holy Door, reflect, and attend Mass if possible.
  • Climb to the dome of St. Peter’s for a breathtaking view of the Vatican and Rome.
• Afternoon:
  • Visit the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel to admire Michelangelo’s masterpieces.
  • Spend time in St. Peter’s Square, praying and meditating.
• Evening:
  • Walk along the Tiber River, and the new Piazza Pia, and enjoy the views of Castel Sant’Angelo and the illuminated basilica.

Day 3: St. John Lateran (San Giovanni in Laterano) & Holy Cross in Jerusalem

• Morning:
  • Visit the Basilica of St. John Lateran, the Cathedral of Rome.
  • Pass through the Holy Door and admire its beautiful interior, including the Holy Stairs (Scala Sancta), which you can ascend on your knees in devotion.
• Afternoon:
  • Walk or take a short ride to the nearby Basilica of the Holy Cross in Jerusalem (Santa Croce in Gerusalemme), which houses relics of the Passion of Christ.
• Evening:
  • Explore the nearby San Lorenzo neighborhood for dinner and a quieter, local atmosphere.

Day 4: St. Mary Major (Santa Maria Maggiore) & Exploring Ancient Rome

• Morning:
  • Visit St. Mary Major, one of the oldest and most beautiful Marian basilicas.
  • Pass through its Holy Door and spend time in prayer.
• Afternoon:
  • Explore ancient Rome: visit the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill.
  • Optional: Stop by the Basilica of San Clemente, a fascinating multi-layered church with ancient frescoes.
• Evening:
  • Walk through Piazza Venezia and up to Campidoglio for evening views.

Day 5: St. Paul Outside the Walls (San Paolo Fuori le Mura)

• Morning:
  • Travel to St. Paul Outside the Walls, the final major basilica.
  • Pass through the Holy Door and spend time meditating on the life and teachings of St. Paul.
• Afternoon:
  • If time permits, visit the nearby Tre Fontane Abbey, the traditional site of St. Paul’s martyrdom.
  • Return to the city center to visit any missed landmarks or favorite spots.
• Evening:
  • End your pilgrimage with a special dinner and prayer of thanksgiving.

Tips for Your Jubilee Pilgrimage

• Pilgrim’s Passport: Obtain a Jubilee Pilgrim Passport to collect stamps at each basilica. This will also help guide your pilgrimage.
• Transportation: Use Rome’s public transport (bus, metro, tram) or taxis to save time between basilicas.
• Prayer & Reflection: Carry a small journal or prayer book to jot down reflections at each basilica.
• Comfortable Shoes: Walking is a significant part of the journey in Rome.

Would you like further recommendations for accommodations or specific tours? this article is offered by Basilio 55 Luxury Rooms in Rome – Piazza Barberini