You are probably curious about the Jubilee for 2025. Influencers and travel experts have been warning against traveling to Italy during this time, but is the concern warranted? Understanding what the Jubilee is and what it means for travelers can help you decide whether 2025 is the right year for your Italian adventure.
What Is the Jubilee?
The word Jubilee comes from the Hebrew word Jobel, which means ram's horn. This horn was used as a trumpet in the ancient world to signify the beginning of this special anniversary. The book of Leviticus tells us that the jubilee year is a year of liberation and celebration.
Although the biblical Jubilee occurred every 50 years, a papal decree in 1470 changed the anniversary to occur every 25 years. Today, the Jubilee is a time for Christians to reconnect with God and each other, and what better way than to participate in the ancient tradition of pilgrimage.
When Is the 2025 Jubilee?
The Jubilee begins on December 24, 2024 and continues until January 2026. In celebration of the Jubilee, the Pope opens the Holy Doors of the four Papal churches in Rome, symbolizing the passage from sin to grace. Pilgrims who enter through the Holy Doors receive a special blessing.
The Four Papal Churches
The four Papal churches where the Holy Doors will be opened include:
- St. Peter's Basilica in Vatican City
- St. Paul Outside the Walls (San Paolo fuori le Mura)
- Santa Maria Maggiore
- San Giovanni in Laterano (St. John Lateran)
Each of these basilicas holds tremendous historical and spiritual significance, and visiting all four during the Jubilee year is a meaningful experience for pilgrims.
The Shroud of Turin Display
In addition to the ceremonies in Rome, the Shroud of Turin will be on full display during the months of May and June 2025. This rare public viewing will take place in the Turin Cathedral. The Shroud is typically kept in a sealed, climate controlled case and is only displayed during special occasions, making this an extraordinary opportunity for those interested in religious history.
Why Are People Cautioning Against 2025 Travel?
Given Italy's ongoing challenges with overtourism since the Covid lockdowns ended, the Jubilee is expected to bring an additional 30 million pilgrims to Italy during the 2025 calendar year. Much of this focus will be on holy sites in Rome.
This influx of visitors could mean longer lines, higher prices, and more crowded conditions at major attractions. For travelers seeking a relaxing Italian holiday, this may not be the ideal year to visit Rome specifically.
Should You Still Go?
Despite the crowds, there are compelling reasons to consider visiting Italy during the Jubilee year. One would never regret participating in this seldom occurring celebration. The chance to receive a blessing at the Holy Doors or to witness the Shroud of Turin on display are experiences that only come once in a generation.
I remember being in Rome in 2000 and receiving my blessing at the Holy Doors, and I plan on returning this year to do the same. In this high tech modern world, it is a gift to see positive ancient traditions persist. Regardless of one's personal beliefs, experiencing other cultures and religions is what makes travel so special.
Tips for Visiting During the Jubilee
If you decide to visit Italy during the Jubilee, consider these strategies:
- Book accommodations well in advance, especially in Rome
- Visit holy sites early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid peak crowds
- Consider spending more time in other Italian regions and making Rome a shorter stop
- Work with a travel planner who can help secure reservations and skip the line tickets
- Be patient and embrace the pilgrimage atmosphere
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Catholic Jubilee Year?
The Jubilee is a special holy year in the Catholic Church that occurs every 25 years. It is a time of pilgrimage, spiritual renewal, and receiving special blessings by passing through the Holy Doors at the four Papal basilicas in Rome.
When does the 2025 Jubilee start and end?
The 2025 Jubilee begins on December 24, 2024 and continues until January 2026, spanning just over one full year.
Will the Shroud of Turin be on display in 2025?
Yes, the Shroud of Turin will be on public display during May and June 2025 at the Turin Cathedral. This is a rare opportunity as the Shroud is typically kept sealed and is only shown during special occasions.
How crowded will Rome be during the Jubilee?
Experts estimate an additional 30 million pilgrims will visit Italy during 2025, with heavy concentration in Rome at the holy sites. Expect longer lines and higher demand for accommodations and tours throughout the year.
References
- Vatican documentation on Jubilee Year 2025 dates, ceremonies, and Holy Door openings.
- Biblical and historical sources on the origins of the Jubilee tradition from Leviticus.
- Italian tourism authority projections for visitor numbers during Jubilee 2025.
- Archdiocese of Turin announcements regarding Shroud of Turin display dates in 2025.
