The Holy Doors open for the 2025 Jubilee: where are the 4 Holy Doors in Rome?

Where are the 4 Holy Doors in Rome?

The faithful will have the opportunity to pass through the Holy Doors in some of the most important basilicas in Rome, namely those known as the papal basilicas. The last time the ceremony took place was in 2015, during the Extraordinary Jubilee.

St. Peter's Basilica

St. Peter's Basilica, located in the famous square of Vatican City, hosts one of the most well-known Holy Doors, and it is traditionally the first to be opened. The wall surrounding the door is demolished a few days before the Jubilee, and the Pope then symbolically opens the door. The sculptural cycle, which depicts the history of humanity in sixteen panels, was a gift from the bishop of Lugano and Basel. The opening of the 2025 Jubilee, and thus the Holy Door of St. Peter's, is scheduled for 24th December 2024.

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St. John Lateran

St. John Lateran Basilica is another key stop for pilgrims during the Jubilee. Its Holy Door, created by the sculptor Floriano Bodini, will be opened on 29th December 2024, marking the start of a series of events at this important church. The church is located in the neighbourhood of the same name, accessible via Metro Line A at the "San Giovanni" stop.

St. Paul Outside the Walls

St. Paul Outside the Walls Basilica, the largest after St. Peter's, is famous for its majestic Holy Door. The opening of this door is a significant event that has attracted numerous faithful since the 1300s, the date of the first Holy Year. In this case, the opening is scheduled for 5th January 2025. The easiest way to reach the church is by taking Metro Line B to the "Basilica San Paolo" stop.

St. Mary Major (Santa Maria Maggiore)

Finally, St. Mary Major Basilica completes the quartet of basilicas with Holy Doors in Rome. Its door was created by sculptor Luigi Enzo Mattei and blessed by Pope John Paul II in 2001. Reaching St. Mary Major is very easy due to its proximity to Termini Station. The opening is scheduled for 1st January 2025.

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What are the 7 churches of the Jubilee?

The pilgrimage to the seven churches of Rome is a tradition that dates back to the 16th century, when it was initiated by St. Philip Neri. The custom is particularly significant during Jubilee years, as it allows for the visiting of the city's most important churches. The seven churches include the four previously mentioned papal basilicas, as well as three other churches of fundamental importance, including:

• St. Lawrence Outside the Walls: Located near the Verano Cemetery, it was built between the 6th and 13th centuries. It was rebuilt after World War II, as it was destroyed during the bombings.
• Holy Cross in Jerusalem: Situated near Porta Maggiore, it is famous for its relics of the Passion of Christ, including soil from Mount Calvary at the base of its foundations and a relic of the Cross.
• St. Sebastian Outside the Walls: Near the ancient Appian Way, it was commissioned by Emperor Constantine in the 4th century AD.

Holy Doors in Italy and around the world: the most famous

Holy Doors are not only in Rome; their presence can be found throughout Italy and the world, each with its own unique spiritual significance. Passing through a Holy Door is a symbolic act, a moment of deep reflection and spiritual renewal for believers. Some of the most well-known include:

• Basilica of St. Francis in Assisi (Italy): A place of peace and spirituality, linked to the figure of St. Francis.
• Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela (Spain): The final destination of the famous Camino de Santiago, the Holy Door is also known as the Door of Forgiveness.
• Basilica of Notre-Dame de Québec (Canada): The first Catholic church built in North America, it had a Holy Door opened in 2014.
• Cathedral of Mexico City (Mexico): One of the largest and oldest cathedrals in Latin America.

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Where to stay in Rome during the Jubilee

Have you already thought about where to stay in Rome during the Jubilee? The city offers a wide range of options, from elegant hotels to charming bed and breakfasts. Those who want to be just a few steps away from the main Jubilee events can choose the Borgo Pio or Prati districts.

Alternatively, to be close to the Papal Basilicas, you can opt for the neighbourhoods of San Giovanni, Ostiense, and Esquilino. All that's left is to take a look at the latest holiday home listings in Rome on Rentalia.

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