In 2025, Rome will welcome millions of pilgrims for the Jubilee 2025, a remarkable event of faith and spirituality that draws visitors from around the world. The Jubilee is a Holy Year of remission of sins, during which the Pope grants plenary indulgence to all those who perform acts of devotion and penance in the sacred places of the Eternal City.

Jubilee 2025 edition

It’s a unique occasion not just for the faithful, but also for those who want to experience Rome’s rich history and culture in a whole new light. This event is deeply rooted in Catholic tradition and represents a time of reflection, forgiveness, and spiritual renewal. In this article, we’ll explore the origins and significance of the Jubilee, what to expect from the 2025 edition, and how to make the most of this unforgettable experience in the capital.

The origins of the Jubilee

The Jubilee has ancient origins. It traces back to Jewish tradition. Every 50 years, a special year was celebrated. It was dedicated to land rest and slave liberation. It marked a moment of social and spiritual renewal. Pope Boniface VIII instituted the first Christian Jubilee in 1300. It established a Holy Year of forgiveness and reconciliation.

Christian Jubilee in Rome

Initially celebrated every 50 years, the Christian Jubilee became a regular occurrence every 25 years, with some special exceptions. One such exception was the extraordinary Jubilee of Mercy in 2015, called by Pope Francis to mark 50 years since the end of the Second Vatican Council. This event highlighted the importance of mercy and dialogue, central themes in the contemporary Church. Today, the Jubilee remains a solemn moment when millions of faithful journey to Rome to partake in a centuries-old tradition, embodying forgiveness, renewal, and spiritual connection.

Jubilee 2025: what to expect

The Jubilee of 2025, under the theme “Pilgrims of Hope“, promises an event rich in spiritual depth and symbolism. The celebration will commence on Christmas Eve 2024 and extend until Epiphany 2025, marking over a year of reflection and renewal. The opening of the Holy Door at St. Peter’s Basilica will signal the start of the Holy Year. This gesture, steeped in tradition, invites the faithful to embrace a fresh path of spiritual growth and conversion.

The Holy Doors in Rome

In addition to St. Peter’s, the other three major papal basilicas in Rome—St. John Lateran, St. Mary Major, and St. Paul Outside the Walls—will also open their Holy Doors. This presents pilgrims with the rare chance to engage in a journey of profound meaning. Walking through these doors symbolizes far more than a ritual act. It is a representation of one’s transition from sin to redemption, a search for spiritual renewal and forgiveness. For many, this sacred passage becomes the pinnacle of their pilgrimage, a time to reconnect with their faith and reflect on their personal spiritual transformation.

How to prepare for the Jubilee 2025

In the months leading up to Jubilee 2025, Rome will undergo a major transformation, becoming an open-air construction site. The city will be heavily involved in restoring historical monuments and optimizing infrastructure and services, such as roads and public transportation. Every effort aims to ensure a pleasant and efficient experience for pilgrims and visitors arriving from all corners of the globe. If you’re planning a visit to the capital for the Jubilee, it’s essential to prepare well in advance. First and foremost, book your accommodation and tickets for major attractions as early as possible, since the city will be incredibly crowded.

Tickets for museums and historical sites

Consider purchasing skip-the-line tickets for museums and historical sites to avoid long waits. For getting around, public transport will undoubtedly be the most practical option. Rome’s transport network, including the metro, buses, and trams, will be enhanced to offer faster and more frequent services during the Jubilee. It’s also worth downloading a local navigation app to help you move easily between destinations and find the quickest routes. Lastly, remember to dress comfortably and appropriately. Many of Rome’s churches and basilicas require respectful attire, with covered shoulders and knees.

Planning your visit to Jubilee 2025

The Jubilee Year of 2025 offers a series of remarkable events. It begins with the opening of the Holy Door at Rome’s major basilicas. Before planning your trip, choose the best time to enhance your experience. Check the official Jubilee 2025 website for event calendars to stay updated. This is a great chance to explore the Vatican and its treasures, from the Vatican Museums to the Sistine Chapel. Be sure to book tickets in advance for all attractions to secure entry and avoid long queues. Also, reserve your dining spots early. With Rome expected to be crowded, this will ensure you enjoy authentic Roman cuisine without hassle.

Navigating Rome efficiently during the Jubilee

Getting around Rome during Jubilee 2025 will be much easier by using public transportation, considering the vast influx of visitors. A convenient option is purchasing a public transport pass, which allows you to travel around the city easily and stress-free. A weekly pass is ideal for those planning an extended stay, offering unlimited access to public transport for seven days, including buses, trams, and the metro. However, if your stay is shorter or you don’t need daily transport, more flexible options like 24, 48, or 72-hour passes are available, tailored to your needs.

Getting to St. Peter’s Square during Jubilee 2025

St. Peter’s Square in Vatican City will be the focal point of Jubilee 2025, hosting major religious events and gatherings. However, navigating Rome during the Holy Year may prove difficult due to the influx of visitors and heavy crowds. Driving is not advisable, as traffic congestion will be severe and parking options very limited. The most efficient way to reach St. Peter’s Square is by metro. The city has invested in major upgrades to the public transport system ahead of the Jubilee, improving the metro network’s capacity and frequency.

Termini Station, metro A and exit Ottaviano

From Rome’s main Termini station, take the A line (red) towards Battistini and exit at Ottaviano. From there, it’s only a 10-minute walk to the square. Another convenient option is the train. The San Pietro railway station is just a few minutes away on foot, offering easy access for those traveling from other parts of Rome or surrounding areas. Several bus routes also stop close to St. Peter’s Square. The most convenient stop is R. Cavalleggeri/S. Pietro, only 350 meters away, and well-connected by various city buses. Finally, tram line 19 is a great alternative, bringing you to the Risorgimento/San Pietro stop. A short stroll from there will take you straight to the square.

Uncover Rome’s hidden gems during Jubilee 2025

Jubilee 2025 offers a perfect chance to not only visit the Vatican’s iconic landmarks but also to uncover some of Rome’s lesser-known treasures. With millions of visitors crowding the city, it’s a great idea to escape the busiest areas and explore quieter, equally captivating spots. Rome is brimming with hidden wonders that many tourists miss. Take a stroll through the enchanting Coppedè district, known for its whimsical, almost dreamlike architecture. Or head to the Aventine Hill, where tucked-away gardens reveal stunning, panoramic views of the city. Venturing beyond the main tourist hubs gives you a taste of Rome’s authentic charm. You can soak in the city’s daily life, discovering corners rich with history and culture that remain off the usual tourist radar.

Making the most of Jubilee 2025 in Rome

The Jubilee 2025 will offer a unique experience, a spiritual journey of self-discovery and faith. Rome, with its millennia-old history and profound spirituality, will be the ideal setting for a path of inner renewal. From the solemn rites in the papal basilicas to moments of quiet reflection in the most suggestive places, each pilgrim will find an opportunity to draw closer to God and rediscover the meaning of their life.

(credits: Freepik)