Map My Route to the Vatican with the New Pope

Pope Leo XIV was inaugurated today in the Vatican. On May 8, 2025, history was made as Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, a native of Chicago, was elected the 267th pope and took the name Leo XIV. As the Bishop of Rome, he now shepherds 1.4 billion Catholics worldwide.
The Jubilee 2025 in Rome is a historic, year-long celebration featuring themed events for various groups, major pilgrimages, and special liturgies. The city is welcoming millions of pilgrims and visitors from around the globe.

Map Route of the Jubilee 2025 Most sacred Places

When pilgrims visit Rome for the Jubilee 2025, there are several sacred and historic places they should include in their itinerary to fully experience the spiritual and cultural richness of the event. To help, we’ve used a multi-stop route planner to create the fastest route connecting all these key sites. Here is a Map of this route, with driving directions.

1. The Four Major Papal Basilicas

These are the central pilgrimage destinations during the Jubilee, each featuring a Holy Door that pilgrims pass through to receive a plenary indulgence:

1. St. Peter’s Basilica (Vatican City): The heart of the Catholic Church, home to masterpieces by Michelangelo and Bernini, and the site of the Jubilee’s opening and closing ceremonies.
2. St. John Lateran: The oldest basilica in Rome and the cathedral of the Pope as Bishop of Rome, featuring the Holy Stairs and rich historical significance.
3. St. Mary Major (Santa Maria Maggiore): Known for its stunning Byzantine mosaics and dedication to the Virgin Mary.
4. St. Paul Outside the Walls: Built over the tomb of St. Paul, notable for its grand architecture and Romanesque cloisters.
2. The Seven Pilgrim Churches of Rome

Following a tradition dating back to the 16th century, pilgrims often visit these seven churches, which include the four papal basilicas plus three others:

1. St. Lawrence Outside the Walls (San Lorenzo Fuori le Mura)
2. Holy Cross in Jerusalem (Santa Croce in Gerusalemme)
3. St. Sebastian Outside the Walls (San Sebastiano Fuori Le Mura)

These churches house important relics and offer additional spiritual experiences during the Jubilee.

3. Other Significant Pilgrimage Sites
1. The Pantheon: A marvel of ancient architecture, now a church dedicated to St. Mary and the Martyrs.
2. Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel: Home to priceless religious art and the famous Michelangelo ceiling, offering a deep connection to the Catholic faith’s artistic heritage.
3. St. Peter’s Square: The gathering place for papal audiences and major Jubilee events.
4. Catacombs of Saint Callixtus: Early Christian burial sites offering insight into the Church’s history and the faith of the early martyrs.
4. Pilgrimage Starting Point
1. Piazza Pia: Located between Castel Sant’Angelo and the start of Via della Conciliazione, this is the official starting point for the pilgrimage to St. Peter’s Holy Door.

Pilgrims may also explore devotional routes such as the “Patronesses of Europe and Doctors of the Church” pilgrimage, which includes churches like Santa Maria Sopra Minerva and Trinità dei Monti, offering a less crowded but deeply spiritual experience.

Conclusion

To make the most of your Jubilee pilgrimage, consider using a multi-stop route planner like MyRouteOnline. It helps you organize your itinerary efficiently, saving time and ensuring you don’t miss any of these sacred sites.
With Pope Leo XIV at the helm, Rome is ready to welcome pilgrims from around the world. Plan your route, immerse yourself in the city’s spiritual heritage, and experience a journey of faith and renewal.