It’s a Jubilee Year in Rome: Here’s What That Means

Jubilee Year will bring in even more tourists than usual so if you want to take part, book everything well in advance.

An extra 30 million pilgrims will congest Rome this Jubilee year while descending upon the Vatican. Dominic Arizona Bonuccelli, Rick Steves' Europe

In Rome, 2025 is a Jubilee Year—so if your travel plans include the Eternal City, it’s important to know what the Jubilee is all about, what to expect … and how to prepare for increased crowds.

Since the year 1300, the Roman Catholic Church traditionally proclaims a “Jubilee Year” every 25 years. It’s a time when the pope invites pilgrims from all corners of the globe and all walks of life to leave the conflict and instability of our world and come together in a spirit of peace and hope in Rome. It’s a time when the faithful re-establish proper relations with God, with each other, and with creation … a time to promote the dignity of all persons.