The King and Queen have started a three-day state visit to Italy to celebrate the Catholic jubilee year, an important event that occurs every 25 years. This visit includes various public and diplomatic events in Rome and Ravenna, highlighting the significance of the jubilee.
Rome is expecting a massive influx of visitors this year, with numbers projected to reach between 30 and 32 million, compared to the usual 10 million. Many Catholics are traveling to the city for the jubilee, which is a time for pilgrimage and spiritual renewal. The jubilee officially began on December 24, 2024, and will continue until January 6, 2026.
The UK Foreign Office has updated travel advice, indicating that Rome will be particularly busy during this period. Tourists planning to visit are encouraged to prepare for crowds and extended wait times, especially at popular sites. They are advised to book accommodations, transportation, and attraction tickets well in advance.
A jubilee year is a special time for Catholics to reconnect with their faith. It begins with the Pope opening the Holy Doors at St. Peter’s Basilica, symbolizing a fresh start. This year, Pope Francis opened several Holy Doors, including one at a prison, marking a gesture of hope for inmates.
The King, despite being the head of the Church of England, was scheduled to meet the Pope during this visit. However, due to the Pope’s recovery from pneumonia, that meeting has been postponed. Instead, the King and Queen will visit the Papal Basilica of St. Paul’s Outside the Walls. The King will also make history by addressing a joint session of the Italian parliament, becoming the first British monarch to do so.
The last jubilee year in 2000 saw Queen Elizabeth II meet Pope John Paul II at the Vatican, highlighting the importance of these royal visits in fostering relations between the Catholic Church and the Church of England.
Travelers to Italy this year should expect a busy atmosphere in Rome, especially during major jubilee events. The city has undergone significant renovations to prepare for the increased tourist flow, enhancing its appeal. Tourists are encouraged to visit major attractions early in the day and explore lesser-known neighborhoods for a more authentic experience.
Overall, this state visit by the King and Queen not only marks a celebration of faith but also strengthens diplomatic ties between the UK and Italy, showcasing the importance of cultural and religious connections in today’s world.