Traverse the awe-inspiring circuit around Rome, visiting its seven most grandiose churches.
Experience Rome's Religious Richness Through the Footsteps of a 16th-century Saint
Rome, a city steeped in religious history, attracts over 30 million visitors annually and 2025 holds special significance for this Catholic epicenter as the Vatican marks a Jubilee Year, amidst the funeral of Pope Francis and the subsequent election of a new pontiff. For those seeking an immersive, crowd-free exploration of Rome's iconic churches, following the Pilgrimage of the Seven Churches – an ancient religious tradition dating back to the 16th century – offers a unique and meaningful experience.
First conceived by Saint Philip Neri, this pilgrimage path spans approximately 25 kilometers and weaves between the city's seven major basilicas. While variations on the route are possible, the journey encapsulates the spiritual heart of Rome and provides ample opportunities to escape the masses.
Rome is not only renowned for its religious monuments but is also a pleasure to explore on foot. Recently ranked as the most walkable city in the world by GuruWalk, the Eternal City invites visitors to immerse themselves in its history, architecture, and charm, step by step.
The Journey Beginning at St. Peter's Basilica
It is advisable to commence the route at St. Peter's Basilica, given the popularity of the destination. Joining the queue as early as possible will ensure a shorter waiting time and a more leisurely visit, allowing you to marvel at the artistic treasures within, including Michelangelo's Pietà sculpture and Gian Lorenzo Bernini's Baldacchino.
To fully appreciate the sights along the way during daylight and opening hours, it's best to proceed to the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, approximately an hour's walk away. En route, you'll pass the imposing Sant'Angelo castle and traverse the majestic Sant'Angelo Bridge, lined with stone angels and offering scenic views down the Tiber River.
The picturesque Via dei Coronari leads you to Piazza Navona, home to Bernini's Four Rivers Fountain, before bringing you to the second major church on the route – the site where Pope Francis chose to be buried.
Devotion to Mary and Relics of Saints
From Santa Maria Maggiore, a 30-minute walk takes you to San Lorenzo Fuori le Mura, where the church was reconstructed after bombing during World War II. The ancient site of Saint Lawrence's martyrdom features the saint's relics at the heart of the building.
Continuing your journey for 30 more minutes, you'll reach the Basilica of Santa Croce in Gerusalemme, housing some of the most significant relics in Christianity, including fragments of the True Cross, a thorn from the Crown of Christ, and a bone from the finger of St. Thomas the Apostle.
Admiration and Sacred History
Proceeding to the Papal Basilica of San Giovanni in Laterano, you follow the ancient Aurelian walls and pass through the classic Roman Porta Maggiore gateway and aqueducts. As the cathedral of Rome and the oldest and most important basilica in the West, it contains the relics of the heads of the Apostles of Rome, Peter and Paul.
The final leg of the pilgrimage takes you along the Via Appia Antica, providing a brief respite from the bustle of Rome and glimpses of rural beauty. The Basilica of San Sebastiano Fuori le Mura contains relics from Saint Sebastian's martyrdom, as well as Bernini's Bust of the Saviour.
The Pilgrimage of the Seven Churches provides visitors with a rich and rewarding spiritual journey through the history and heart of Rome, offering opportunities for quiet reflection, awe-inspiring art, and the chance to connect with the city's centuries-old traditions.
Upon completing your exploration of Rome's religious sites, a shift in perspectives awaits as you delve into other aspects of the city's charm.
Transform your stay by exploring Rome's lifestyle, home-and-garden, travel, and sports scenes. The Eternal City offers a variety of experiences, such as visiting local vineyards, attending football matches at the Olympic Stadium, or immersing yourself in the beautiful home and garden designs showcased in outdoor markets and exhibitions. Travel beyond Rome to discover hidden treasures in the Italian countryside or embark on an adventure to explore the vibrant nightlife and cultural events in other Italian cities.
