Rome welcomes a million pilgrims as the Holy Year begins
The authorities of Rome have announced that over a million pilgrims visited the city during the first month of the Holy Year. This unique event attracts the faithful and tourists from around the world, and the numbers are impressive.
The Holy Year in Rome, which occurs every 25 years, began with enormous interest, as confirmed by data presented by city authorities. The Holy Doors are opened in four papal basilicas during this extraordinary jubilee, allowing the faithful to pass through. The celebration will continue until January 6, 2026.
Pilgrims flock to Rome
In just one month, more than a million pilgrims have arrived in the Eternal City, eager to enter the Holy Doors of the Vatican Basilica and other significant churches.
During a special session at the Roman Capitol, Mariano Angelucci, the chairman of the tourism commission, emphasized that this number exclusively reflects those arriving for religious purposes. He also noted that since the end of January, the city has experienced an increased influx of tourists, further boosting the local economy.
Angelucci assured that Rome is well-prepared to accommodate this large number of guests. "There is no reason to worry about chaos," he stated, adding that the situation in the city has significantly improved following numerous renovations completed in 2024. During that time, access to many monuments was restricted, leading to tourist dissatisfaction.
The city emphasizes its control over the situation; however, it is undeniable that such a large number of visitors results in crowds at the most popular sites and congestion in public transportation, which many travelers complain about.
The largest influx is yet to come
Agostino Miozzo from the Holy Year organizing committee mentioned that they are currently receiving positive feedback from ambassadors and consuls. The biggest challenge, however, will be the upcoming Youth Jubilee, which is planned for the end of July and August. Another million people are expected to arrive, and city authorities report that about 450,000 young people are still seeking accommodation for this period.
