The pilgrim experience in Rome is rich in history, culture and spirituality. For centuries pilgrims from all over the world have been drawn to the Eternal City’s sacred sites seeking solace, inspiration and a deeper connection to their faith. As the Jubilee Year of 2025 unfolds, Rome becomes an even more significant destination for pilgrims, offering a myriad of experiences that celebrate the Catholic tradition and its profound impact on the city’s identity. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the top pilgrim experiences in Rome during the Jubilee Year, exploring the spiritual treasures that await those who embark on this sacred journey.

1. Attend a Papal Audience

At the heart of Rome’s spiritual life is the Vatican City, the seat of the Catholic Church. One of the most profound experiences for pilgrims visiting Rome is attending a Papal Audience. Held every Wednesday when the Pope is in residence, pilgrims gather in St. Peter’s Square to receive the Pope’s blessing, hear his teachings and witness the spiritual unity of the Catholic Church. The atmosphere is palpable with reverence and devotion as pilgrims from diverse backgrounds come together in prayer and solidarity.

2. Visit the Four Major Papal Basilicas

Rome is home to four Major Papal Basilicas, each with its own history and significance to the pilgrim experience. St. Peter’s Basilica, the largest church in the world, stands as a symbol of the Catholic faith and the legacy of St. Peter, the first pope. The Arch-Basilica of St. John Lateran, known as the ‘Mother Church of the World’, holds a special place in the hearts of pilgrims as the Cathedral of Rome and the seat of the Bishop of Rome, i.e. the Pope. The Basilica of St. Mary Major, dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary, is renowned for its exquisite mosaics and ancient relics, including wood from the crib of the Nativity and the icon Salus Populi Romani by St Luke the Evangelist. Lastly, the Basilica of St. Paul Outside the Walls, built over the burial site of St. Paul the Apostle, offers pilgrims a glimpse into early Christian history and tradition.

3. Walk the Via Dolorosa at the Colosseum

One of the most moving experiences for pilgrims in Rome is walking the Via Dolorosa, or Way of Sorrow, at the Colosseum. The Colosseum has become an important site in Christendom due the fact that it symbolises the pagan Roman Empire at its height, in a time that coincided with the birth of the Church. Pope Benedict XIV erected Stations of the Cross in the Colosseum, solidifying its association with Christian faith and martyrdom.

4. Attend Mass at the Pantheon

The Pantheon, a marvel of ancient Roman engineering, provides a sacred space for pilgrims to worship and pray. Converted into a Christian church in the 7th century, the Pantheon is a testament to the enduring presence of faith in Rome’s history. Attending Mass at the Pantheon is a unique experience that allows pilgrims to connect with the rich tapestry of Roman Catholic tradition while marvelling at the architectural splendour of this iconic monument.

5. Explore the Catacombs

Beneath the bustling streets of modern Rome’s outlying areas lies a network of catacombs, ancient underground burial sites that served as places of worship and refuge for early Christians. Pilgrims can explore these sacred catacombs and see ancient frescoes, tombs, and artefacts that bear witness to the early days of Christianity in Rome. Walking through the narrow passageways of the catacombs, pilgrims are transported back in time, gaining a deeper appreciation for the courage and faith of the early Christians.

6. Pray at the Scala Sancta

Located near the Arch-Basilica of St. John Lateran, the Scala Sancta, or Holy Stairs, are believed to be the very steps Jesus climbed during his trial before Pontius Pilate. Pilgrims ascend these marble stairs on their knees, emulating the suffering of Christ and offering prayers for their intentions. The Scala Sancta is a powerful symbol of redemption and grace, inviting pilgrims to experience the transformative power of prayer and penance.

7. Visit the Tomb of St. Peter

Beneath the majestic dome of St. Peter’s Basilica lies the Tomb of St. Peter, the first pope and a central figure in Christian tradition. Pilgrims from around the world flock to this sacred site to pay homage to St. Peter and to participate in liturgical celebrations held in his honour. Visiting the Tomb of St. Peter is a deeply moving experience that allows pilgrims to connect with the roots of their faith and to experience the spiritual legacy of the apostles.

8. Experience Holy Week Celebrations

The Jubilee Year culminates in Holy Week, a time of solemn observance and joyful celebration in the Catholic Church. Pilgrims visiting Rome during Holy Week can participate in a range of special events and ceremonies, including Palm Sunday Mass at St. Peter’s Square, the Stations of the Cross at the Colosseum, and the Easter Vigil at one of Rome’s historic churches. These sacred rituals offer pilgrims the opportunity to journey with Christ through his passion, death and resurrection, deepening their faith and renewing their commitment to discipleship.

9. Explore the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel

No pilgrim experience in Rome is complete without a visit to the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel. Home to one of the world’s greatest collections of art and artefacts, the Vatican Museums offer pilgrims a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the Catholic Church. The highlight of any visit is undoubtedly the Sistine Chapel, where pilgrims can marvel at Michelangelo’s breathtaking frescoes, including the iconic ceiling depicting scenes from the Book of Genesis. As they explore these hallowed halls, pilgrims are invited to reflect on the intersection of faith and creativity, finding inspiration in the timeless beauty of Christian art.

10. Engage in Spiritual Retreats and Pilgrim Experiences

Throughout the Jubilee Year numerous spiritual retreats and pilgrim experiences are organised for those seeking deeper spiritual renewal and reflection. From guided walking tours of ancient Christian sites to silent retreats and prayer workshops, there are opportunities for pilgrims of all backgrounds to deepen their connection to their faith and to experience the transformative power of pilgrimage. These immersive experiences provide pilgrims with the time and space to pray, meditate and discern God’s presence in their lives, strengthening their spiritual journey and renewing their commitment to living out their faith in the world.

As the Jubilee Year of 2025 unfolds, Rome beckons Christians from all corners of the globe to embark on a pilgrim experience, a sacred journey of faith, reflection and renewal. From attending Papal audiences in St. Peter’s Square to walking the Via Dolorosa at the Colosseum, there are countless opportunities for pilgrims to deepen their connection to the Catholic tradition and to experience the timeless beauty of Rome’s spiritual heritage. Whether you’re drawn to the sacred sites of the Vatican or the ancient catacombs beneath the city, Rome offers a wealth of experiences for spiritual seekers, inviting pilgrims to encounter God’s presence in the midst of history, art and culture. As you embark on your pilgrimage to the eternal city, may you be filled with the peace, joy, and grace that come from encountering the living God in the sacred spaces of Rome.

For the essential pilgrim experiences in Rome during the Jubilee Year check out our flagship Via Crucis Pilgrim Tour and our Holy Doors Tour.