General indulgences are a special form of indulgence in the Catholic Church that forgivesfor all temporal punishments for sins already forgiven in reconciliation. Simply put, a person receives complete purification from the consequences of his sins if he fulfills certain conditionsconditions laid down by the Church - prayer, participation in pilgrimages, or visits to sacred places (such as the Holy Gate in Rome). In this way, the faithful can simplify their spiritual renewal and reach "heaven".
During the Jubilee Year, many cultural and religious events will take place in Rome. For example, from 28 to 30 March 2025, a National Pilgrimage will take place with the participation of bishops and faithful from the Czech Republic. Another major event will be the Jubilee of Youth, scheduled from 28 July to 3 August 2025, which is expected to be attended by at least one million young people.
Up to 35 million pilgrims are expected to visit Rome! So if you are planning a trip here, we recommend booking your accommodation well in advance. Also be prepared for more people at the main sights - the Vatican Museums, the Colosseum, the Trevi Fountain and other Roman monuments will be busier than usual.
What to experience and what to prepare for?
The Jubilee year is a big event in Italy. Pilgrims, tourists and ordinary travellers flock mainly to Rome, where the most important ceremonies and cultural events take place. If you're planning a trip to Italy in 2025, be prepared for an exceptional atmosphere, but also for bigger crowds and higher prices.
The main venue is Rome, where the Holy Gates open at the main basilicas - St Peter's, St Paul's Outside the Walls, St John's in the Lateran and Santa Maria Maggiore. This only happens in the Holy Year, so it's a unique opportunity to see something really special.
Highlights of the Jubilee Year
The opening ceremony of the Holy Gate took place on December 24, 2024, which is such a symbolic beginning of the Jubilee in the Vatican. But during the year you can still look forward to:
- Youth Jubilee (July 2025) - thousands of young people from all over the world will arrive in the city, and there will be a festival atmosphere in the streets.
- Special night tours of the Vatican Museums - usually from spring to autumn, the perfect opportunity to see the Sistine Chapel without the crowds.
- Cultural events and exhibitions throughout Rome - special displays dedicated to art, history and spiritual heritage.
- Concerts and theatrical performances - expect big events not only in the Vatican, but also in opera houses and historic theatres.
Tips for the end
If you want to avoid the crowds but experience a spiritual atmosphere, try Assisi, Florence or Naples.
Plan off-peak tours. Early morning or late evening is the perfect time to explore the sights.
Expect extra security precautions. During major events, there will be increased control and restrictions on movement in some zones in Rome.
The Jubilee Year 2025 is a unique opportunity to experience Italy in an extraordinary atmosphere. If you don't mind more visitors and want to see Rome at its most spectacular, this is a great year to visit! For detailed information, please visit the Jubilee Year website.
