The Jubilee Rome 2025 is set to transform Rome into a hub of spirituality, culture, and celebration. While millions of pilgrims will focus on the Vatican, there are countless hidden gems beyond St. Peter’s Basilica worth exploring. This guide covers key Jubilee events, must-visit landmarks, and official Vatican resources to make the most of your trip. The 2025 edition will offer visitors a unique opportunity to experience the city’s sacred heritage through special paths, events, and spiritual reflection.
Important Dates & Events of the Jubilee 2025
The Jubilee Year, or Holy Year, occurs every 25 years and transforms Rome into a global spiritual destination. It brings millions of pilgrims to the Eternal City for special events, religious ceremonies, processions, and opportunities to receive plenary indulgences. Streets fill with faithful visitors, churches extend their hours, and the city offers a unique atmosphere of reflection, celebration, and unity. The theme of the 2025 Jubilee is “Pilgrims of Hope,” highlighting renewal, faith, and solidarity in a post-pandemic world. If you’re planning your visit, it’s important to be aware of key events and opening times across major basilicas—knowing the Rome Jubilee 2025 dates is essential to make the most of this once-in-a-generation experience.
Key Events & Dates:
If you’re planning to combine spiritual experiences with sightseeing, many Rome tours will be specially curated around Jubilee events, giving visitors deeper insight into both religious and historical landmarks.
- December 24, 2024 – Opening of the Holy Door at St. Peter’s Basilica by Pope Francis, marking the official start of the Jubilee 2025.
- January 1, 2025 – World Day of Peace Mass at the Vatican.
- April 25-27, 2025 – Jubilee of Teenagers, with events for young Catholics from around the world.
- May 30 – June 1 Jubilee of Families, Children, Grandparents and the Elderly, with Pilgrimage to the Holy Door and with the option of confession in the Jubilee churches.
- December 24, 2025 – Closing of the Holy Door, ending the Jubilee celebrations.
For a full schedule, see the Jubilee 2025 Major Events Calendar.
Hidden Gems to Explore Beyond the Vatican
While many focus on St. Peter’s Basilica and the Vatican Museums, here are some less crowded, yet spectacular places to explore during the 2025 Jubilee. Discovering these quieter corners of the city adds depth to your understanding of what is the Jubilee in Rome in 2025, allowing you to experience its spiritual atmosphere beyond the main pilgrimage sites.
1. Basilica of St. Paul Outside the Walls
One of Rome’s four major basilicas, this stunning church is an important pilgrimage site with a breathtaking interior and the tomb of St. Paul.
2. Santa Maria in Aracoeli
Located on the Capitoline Hill, this beautiful church features stunning frescoes and a legendary Holy Stairs relic.
3. San Clemente Basilica
A fascinating, multilayered church where you can explore underground ruins dating back to ancient Rome.
4. The Appian Way (Via Appia Antica)
Walk along this ancient Roman road and visit the Catacombs of San Sebastiano and San Callisto, where early Christians were buried.
5. The Aventine Keyhole
Peering through this famous keyhole offers a perfectly framed view of St. Peter’s Basilica from a unique perspective.
6. Trastevere District
Escape the crowds and explore this charming neighborhood known for its cobbled streets, traditional restaurants, and the stunning Basilica of Santa Maria in Trastevere. With its authentic atmosphere and timeless beauty, Trastevere is undoubtedly one of the most memorable places to visit in Rome.
7. Palazzo Doria Pamphilj
An underrated art museum housing works by Caravaggio, Velázquez, and Raphael in a beautifully preserved aristocratic palace.
Practical Tips for Attending the 2025 Jubilee
- Avoid Peak Crowds: Visit major sites early in the morning or late in the afternoon.
- Public Transport: Rome will have special transport options for the Jubilee. Use the Metro, buses, or the Jubilee Pilgrim Pass for discounts.
- Get Tickets Online: For museums and catacombs, pre-book online.
- Plan Around Religious Events: Major basilicas may be temporarily closed for special ceremonies.
Official Vatican Resources
For accurate information and event details, use these official sources:
- Vatican News – Official news and updates.
- Official Vatican Jubilee 2025 Website – Complete schedule and pilgrim resources.
- Holy See Website – Official documents and Papal announcements.
By exploring these hidden gems, you can enjoy a meaningful and less hectic experience during the Jubilee Rome 2025 while still immersing yourself in the spiritual and cultural richness of Rome.