The traditional itinerary of the Seven Pilgrim Churches of Rome is a significant devotion, especially during a Jubilee year. This spiritual journey involves visiting the four major papal basilicas – St. Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican, the Archbasilica of St. John Lateran, the Basilica of St. Paul Outside the Walls, and the Basilica of Saint Mary Major – along with three other important churches: the Basilica of San Lorenzo fuori le Mura, the Basilica di Santa Croce in Gerusalemme, and the Sanctuary of Santa Maria Scala Coeli.
Completing this pilgrimage, particularly by walking between the churches as tradition suggests, is a powerful act of faith, penance, and prayer. During a Jubilee, it carries the special significance of seeking spiritual renewal and potentially receiving indulgences. Each church holds unique historical and religious importance, offering pilgrims a rich experience of Rome’s Christian heritage.
The Seven Churches Pilgrimage is not just for Catholics; it’s a fantastic opportunity for anyone to explore Rome’s incredible history and art. These basilicas and churches are architectural masterpieces, filled with stunning mosaics, sculptures, and historical artifacts. Even if you’re not religious, this journey offers a unique perspective on Rome’s rich cultural heritage.
The Jubilee holds deep spiritual significance, and historically, people from all over the world have journeyed to Rome to undertake the Jubilee pilgrimage, traditionally completed on foot. Therefore, we primarily recommend traveling on foot for the Jubilee pilgrimage, but acknowledging the long distances involved, we will also provide information on available metro or bus stops for each Basilica. Due to the long way to walk, we suggest to split the itinerary in two days. Day one: Santa Maria Maggiore, San Giovanni Laterano, Santa Croce in Gerusalemme, San Lorenzo fuori le Mura. Day two: San Paolo fuori le Mura, San Sebastiano fuori le Mura, San Pietro in Vaticano. The itinerary will start from Roma Termini station.
First stop: Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore. Given its proximity to the train station, we recommend starting the pilgrimage from here. 850 m walking, around 10 mins to reach. If you can't or don't want to walk, there are several buses that reach the location: 514, 360, 16.
Second stop: The Basilica di San Giovanni in Laterano, which is the closest major basilica to Santa Maria Maggiore. 1.5 km, 20 mins walking. If you can't or don't want to walk, there are buses n 714 and n 16 that reach the location.
Third stop: Santa Croce in Gerusalemme, which is very close to San Giovanni Laterano, so we suggest to walk to it. 800 m, 5 to 10 minutes walk.
Fourth stop: San Lorenzo fuori le Mura. That would be a 2,5 km walk, around 30 mins walk. If you prefer, you can take bus n 3.
Fifth stop: San Paolo fuori le Mura, very long walk, 5.5 km. By bus, you will have to reach Verano bus stop, where you will grab bus n 3 and go down at Marmorata/Galvani, then you will have to change bus and grab n 23 and exit at V.Le S.Paolo
Sixth stop: San Sebastiano fuori le Mura, very long walk, 6 km. In this case you will have to take bus n 670 from Calzecchi stop to Metropia/Gigante
Final stop: Piazza San Pietro, this would also be the longest walk, 8 km. By public transport, you will have to take bus n 660 to Arco di Travertino, from there take metro A to Ottaviano
Our team has carefully selected the best featured specials around the Basilicas.
We've handpicked the finest accommodations around these destinations, ensuring exceptional stays for every traveler, from luxurious hotels to charming alternatives.
We've curated a selection of the finest dining and drinking experiences around these destinations, from acclaimed restaurants to vibrant bars.
We've curated a diverse array of exceptional activities around these destinations to cater to all interests and preferences.
Has unum fugit audiam at, sit aliquid accusam constituto in.
Unleash your travel tales! Send us a brief description, and let your photos, videos, or illustrations paint the picture. More than just a recount, we want to feel the heart of your journey
Your message was sent successfully.
Get ready, Futura is coming!
Futura: the dawn of a new era!
