More than half a million people have passed through the Holy Door of St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome, just two weeks after its opening on Christmas Eve. The door was inaugurated by Pope Francis, marking the beginning of the 2025 Jubilee Year. According to Cardinal Rino Fisichella, Pro-Prefect of the Dicastery for Evangelization, the large number of pilgrims is a “very significant beginning” for the Catholic Church’s holy year, which will conclude on January 6, 2026.
The dicastery has been working tirelessly to ensure that pilgrims receive a warm welcome and a meaningful experience. With an estimated 30 million people expected to visit Rome throughout the jubilee year, the Holy See and Italian authorities are collaborating to provide a smooth and enjoyable experience for all pilgrims. Preparations are underway worldwide, with many groups of faithful already making their pilgrimage to Rome.
The jubilee year is filled with special spiritual, artistic, and cultural events, including the opportunity to receive a plenary indulgence by passing through a “Holy Door.” In addition to the Holy Door in St. Peter’s Basilica, there are four other Holy Doors located in Rome, including the Archbasilica of St. John Lateran, the Basilica of St. Mary Major, the Basilica of St. Paul Outside the Walls, and in Rome’s Rebibbia prison.
The first major event of the 2025 holy year is the Jubilee of the World of Communications, scheduled to take place from January 24-26. Thousands of journalists and media professionals from around the world are expected to attend the event in Rome.