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Contents
Book your Holy Doors journey: Jubilee 2025 pilgrimage
St. Peter's Basilica
As the heart of Catholicism and the largest church in the world, St. Peter's Basilica is a major pilgrimage site. The Jubilee Year begins here with the ceremonial opening of the Holy Door on Christmas Eve.
Why visit?
- Located at the heart of Vatican City, it is the most visited and spiritually significant of all Holy Doors.
- St. Peter's Basilica is built over the tomb of Peter the Apostle, making it a significant pilgrimage site for Christians worldwide.
- The basilica is renowned for its Renaissance architecture and Baroque elements. You can also climb Michelangelo's iconic dome for panoramic views of Rome.
- The door's bronze panels depict Jesus' mercy, emphasizing divine forgiveness and redemption.
Timings
- The Basilica is open from 7am to 7:10pm.
- Last entry: 1 hour before closing time.
Getting there:
- By metro: Take Line A to Ottaviano, a 10-minute walk from the basilica.
- By bus: Bus numbers 32, 81, or 982 to Piazza del Risorgimento; Bus 64 to Via di Porta Cavalleggeri.
- By tram: Tram 19 stops at Piazza del Risorgimento, a 13-minute walk to the basilica.
Recommended Tours
- St. Peter’s Basilica Guided Tour with Dome Access
- Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel & St. Peter's Basilica Guided Tour
- St. Peter’s Basilica, Square, and Papal Tombs Guided Tour
- Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel & St. Peter's Basilica Guided Tour
Archbasilica of St. John Lateran
The Archbasilica of St. John Lateran is the oldest and highest-ranking of the four major basilicas, known as the "Mother Church of Western Christianity." As the cathedral of the Bishop of Rome, it holds a central place in Catholic faith and has hosted numerous papal coronations and councils.
Why visit?
- Rome’s official cathedral, home to relics of Saints Peter and Paul, and the Pope’s seat. It’s also the final resting place of six popes, including Pope Leo XIII.
- The first-ever Holy Door opening took place here in 1423, marking the start of the Jubilee tradition.
- Walk the Scala Sancta, the steps believed to be the ones Jesus ascended during His trial before Pontius Pilate.
- Admire Galilei’s grand facade, Borromini’s intricate interiors, and the twelve statues of the Apostles, crafted by Bernini’s students.
- Explore the cloister, baptistery, and museum for a deeper cultural and spiritual experience.
Timings
- The Basilica is open from 7am to 6:30pm.
Getting there:
- By metro: Take Line A to San Giovanni, a 5-minute walk from the basilica.
- By bus: Bus lines 16, 81, 85, 87, 186, 650, 810, and 850 stop near Piazza di San Giovanni in Laterano.
- By tram: Tram line 3 connects directly from the Colosseum to the basilica.
Recommended experiences
- St. John Lateran Ticket with Audio Guide
- Papal Basilicas, St. Callixtus & St. Sebastian Catacombs Tour with Transfers
- St. John Lateran Basilica Guided Tour
Basilica of St. Mary Major
The Basilica of St. Mary Major is the largest church in Rome dedicated to the Virgin Mary. Dating back to the 5th century, it was built after the Council of Ephesus and is renowned for its Byzantine mosaics and its role in Marian devotion.
Why visit?
- Dedicated to the Virgin Mary, this basilica offers a deeply spiritual experience under her maternal guidance.
- One of Rome’s oldest Christian churches, it features beautiful mosaics depicting Mary’s life, the revered Salus Populi Romani icon, and relics of the Holy Cradle.
- Experience the powerful moment when the Holy Door opens, marked by the ringing of "the Lost One," an ancient bell that has guided pilgrims for centuries.
- Admire the coffered ceiling, designed by Giuliano da Sangallo, gilded with gold brought by Columbus.
- See the Bell Tower, the tallest in Rome, standing at 240 feet.
Timings
- The Basilica is open from 7am to 7pm.
- Last entry: 6:30pm.
Getting there:
- By metro: Take Line A to Termini station, a 10-minute walk from the basilica.
- By bus: Bus lines 70, 81, 85, 87, and 492 stop near the basilica. Closest stop is Carlo Alberto, 46 meters away.
- By taxi: A taxi from central Rome takes about 10-15 minutes, costing approximately €10-€12
Recommended experiences
- Basilica Santa Maria Maggiore Tickets with Audio Guide
- Basilica Santa Maria Maggiore Underground Guided Tour
Basilica of St. Paul Outside the Walls
The Basilica of St. Paul Outside the Walls is a monumental tribute to the Apostle Paul, featuring Byzantine mosaics, ancient columns, and the grand apse mosaic depicting Christ with St. Peter and St. Paul. It is also the site of St. Paul’s tomb, drawing millions of pilgrims each year.
Why visit?
- Built over the tomb of St. Paul and one of Rome’s Seven Pilgrim Churches, this basilica is a major pilgrimage site, honoring the apostle’s enduring legacy.
- Admire its grand neoclassical interior, golden Byzantine mosaics, and alabaster columns, along with an atrium featuring 150 towering columns and an 11th-century bronze door, cast in Constantinople.
- See remarkable artworks, including a colossal statue of St. Paul and the medieval marble canopy above his tomb.
- Explore the Benedictine cloister, with its intricate columns and colorful mosaics crafted between 1204 and 1241. Don’t miss the Papal portraits, showcasing a visual history of popes from St. Peter to John Paul II.
Timings
- The Basilica is open from 7am to 6:30pm.
Getting there:
- By metro: Take Line B to Basilica San Paolo station, a short walk from the basilica.
- By bus: Bus lines 23, 271, and 769 stop near the basilica.
- By taxi: A taxi from central Rome takes about 15-20 minutes, costing approximately €12-€15.
The "Fifth" holy door
The fifth Holy Door for the Jubilee of 2025 is unlike any other—it stands within the walls of Rebibbia Prison in Rome. Opened by Pope Francis on December 26, 2024, the feast of St. Stephen, this unprecedented act extends the Jubilee’s message of mercy and redemption to those often forgotten by society. It is a powerful symbol of hope, reminding all that faith knows no boundaries.
Why visit?
Though not open to the public, the Holy Door at Rebibbia represents an extraordinary moment in history. It embodies Pope Francis’s commitment to inclusivity, offering prisoners a chance for spiritual renewal and reminding the world that redemption is possible for all.
Getting there
Rebibbia Prison is in northeastern Rome and accessible via public transportation, including buses and the metro. However, due to security restrictions, access is limited to inmates, staff, and select religious representatives.
Pilgrimage itinerary options for the Holy Doors
One-day pilgrimage
Weekend pilgrimage
Full Jubilee pilgrimage
- Morning: Start at St. Peter’s Basilica. Enter through the Holy Door, explore Michelangelo’s Pietà and Bernini’s Baldachin, and optionally climb the dome for breathtaking views.
- Afternoon: Visit St. John Lateran (Rome’s oldest basilica) or St. Paul Outside the Walls (known for its stunning mosaics and peaceful atmosphere).
- Evening: Conclude with a quiet moment of reflection, perhaps with a stroll along the Tiber River or near the Appian Way.
Day 1:
- Morning: Visit St. Peter’s Basilica, passing through its Holy Door. Consider adding a Vatican Museums tour.
- Afternoon: Explore St. John Lateran and St. Mary Major, both rich in history and spirituality.
- Evening: Unwind with a traditional Roman dinner in Trastevere.
Day 2:
- Morning: Visit St. Paul Outside the Walls, admiring its peaceful cloister and mosaics.
- Afternoon: Optional visit to nearby historical landmarks like the Colosseum or the Roman Forum.
- Evening: End your pilgrimage with a moment of prayer or reflection at a quiet city spot.
- Days 1-2: Follow the weekend pilgrimage plan to visit all four Holy Doors.
- Days 3-4: Discover hidden gems—the Scala Sancta (Holy Stairs), Castel Sant’Angelo, or the Pantheon.
- Days 5-7: Extend your journey beyond Rome with a day trip to Assisi, the hometown of St. Francis, or explore local neighborhoods like Monti or Testaccio for a cultural immersion.
How to prepare for your visit?
Registration and planning
Best time to visit
What to carry
Accessibility
Where to stay
Plan ahead
- Register as a pilgrim on the official Jubilee website to get your digital Pilgrim Card with a QR code for shorter lines and booking Holy Door entry times.
- Download the Jubilee app for navigation, event updates, and real-time assistance.
Spiritual preparation
- To receive the Jubilee plenary indulgence, ensure you: Go to confession Receive Holy Communion Pass through one of the Holy Doors
Guided tours & groups
- Consider joining a guided tour for a structured pilgrimage and easier access to the Holy Doors.
- Peak crowds: Expect significant crowds throughout the Jubilee year, especially during religious holidays, major events, and weekends. Approximately 35 million pilgrims are anticipated, doubling the usual tourist numbers in Rome.
- Best days: To avoid long lines and crowded conditions, plan your visit on weekdays, particularly early in the morning or late in the afternoon. This timing allows for a more peaceful experience as lines tend to be shorter during these hours.
- Special events: Be mindful of specific dates when major ceremonies or events are scheduled, as these will attract larger crowds. Notable peak times include the opening ceremonies of the Holy Doors and Wednesday audiences with Pope Francis.
- Recommended timing: Arriving shortly before opening hours can help minimize wait times. For example, visiting St. Peter's Basilica after 3pm on weekdays is suggested as it often results in shorter queues.
✔ Comfortable shoes – Expect lots of walking.
✔ Respectful attire – Cover shoulders and knees for religious sites.
✔ Pilgrim Card & QR Code – For priority access.
✔ Water & snacks – Stay hydrated and energized.
✔ Sun protection – Sunscreen, hat, sunglasses (especially in warmer months).
✔ Portable charger – Keep your phone powered for navigation and communication.
- Ramps & Special Assistance: St. Peter’s Basilica has ramps and a wheelchair lane for easier access. Visitors in wheelchairs and one companion can enter for free.
- Accessible Tours: Book a tour with private transportation, wheelchair support, and expert guides to explore the Holy Doors comfortably.
🏡 Near the Vatican (Prati, Vatican City) – Ideal for those prioritizing St. Peter’s Basilica, though accommodations tend to be pricier.
🏡 Historic Center (Trastevere, Campo de' Fiori) – Vibrant areas with great restaurants and easy access to major sites.
🏡 Colosseum & Imperial Fora – Perfect for those wanting to explore ancient Rome.
🏡 Monti – A charming, trendy neighborhood close to major attractions.
🏡 Testaccio – A more local experience, famous for traditional Roman cuisine.
Frequently asked questions about the Holy Doors
How can I obtain a pilgrim's card for accessing the Holy Doors?
Pilgrims can obtain a special pilgrim's card through local parishes or designated tour operators. This card may be required for certain events and indulgences during the Jubilee. You can register online for free as well.
Is there a recommended route to visit all four Holy Doors in a single pilgrimage?
- The most popular route is the Via Papale (Papal Way), which begins at the Archbasilica of St. John Lateran and ends at St. Peter's Basilica. This route passes by significant sites like the Colosseum and Castel Sant'Angelo before reaching St. Peter's Square.
- Another option is the Via del Pellegrino (Pilgrim's Way), which also starts at St. John Lateran and includes a stop at San Giovanni Battista dei Fiorentini before ending at Castel Sant'Angelo.
- The Cammino Mariano (Marian Way) begins at the Basilica of St. Mary Major, passes through churches dedicated to the Virgin Mary, and joins the Via Papale at Piazza Navona.
What are the rituals or prayers associated with crossing the Holy Doors?
While no specific prayers are mandated, many pilgrims choose to engage in personal reflection or recite traditional prayers like the Act of Contrition before passing through the Holy Door.
The act of physically crossing the threshold signifies a renewal of faith and a desire for spiritual transformation. As Pope St. John Paul II stated, "To pass through that door means to confess that Jesus Christ is Lord; it is to strengthen faith in him in order to live the new life which he has given us." Ultimately, the experience is deeply personal, inviting pilgrims to experience God's mercy and embrace the spirit of the Jubilee.
Are there any specific requirements for visiting the Holy Doors?
Visitors should adhere to a respectful dress code, covering shoulders and knees. Additionally, participating in the Sacrament of Penance is encouraged to fully experience the indulgence associated with passing through the Holy Doors.
What are the peak times to visit the Holy Doors, and how can I avoid long lines?
Peak times are typically during weekends, holidays, and significant liturgical events, especially around the opening ceremonies. To avoid long lines, plan your visit on weekdays, particularly early in the morning or later in the afternoon. Arriving shortly before opening hours can also help minimize wait times.
Are there accessibility options for elderly or disabled pilgrims wishing to cross the Holy Doors?
Yes, the major basilicas, including those with Holy Doors, generally provide accessibility options for elderly and disabled pilgrims. Ramps and designated pathways are available to facilitate access.
Can I bring personal items or prayer intentions through the Holy Doors, and are there guidelines for doing so?
Yes, pilgrims are encouraged to bring personal items or written prayer intentions. While there are no specific guidelines prohibiting this, it is advisable to keep items small and manageable. Many pilgrims choose to leave their intentions at designated areas near the Holy Doors or within the basilicas.
Can I visit the Holy Doors at other locations outside of Rome?
While the main Holy Doors are located at the four major basilicas in Rome, local bishops may designate other significant churches or cathedrals as pilgrimage sites with their own Holy Doors. Check with local dioceses for more information.
What should I do if I cannot visit the Holy Doors in person?
For those unable to visit, participating in local Jubilee events, engaging in acts of charity, and seeking the Sacrament of Penance can still offer a meaningful way to experience the spirit of the Jubilee.
