Vatican Prepares for 2025 Holy Year as Millions Expected in Rome

Pope Francis will open the Holy Door on Christmas Eve, launching a year of pilgrimages, spiritual indulgences, and global events under heightened security.

The 2025 Holy Year, themed 'Pilgrims of Hope,' will begin on December 24 with Pope Francis opening the Holy Door at St. Peter’s Basilica, a tradition dating back to 1300.
An estimated 32 million pilgrims are expected to visit Rome, with indulgences offered for acts of mercy, penance, and pilgrimages to sacred sites.
A Jubilee of Prisoners and an LGBTQ+ pilgrimage are among the notable events planned, reflecting Pope Francis’s emphasis on inclusion and hope.
Rome has undergone extensive preparations, including public works and artistic renovations, though many projects remain incomplete, causing ongoing disruptions.
Security measures have been intensified, including advanced surveillance systems and additional police, following recent concerns over potential threats.