Pilgrimage to Italy

A Catholic pilgrimage tour to Italy simply would not be complete without a visit to the center of the Church, St. Peter's Basilica in Vatican City. Excavations during the 1940's unearthed his relics, which are presently enshrined above the main altar. Not to be missed are the magnificent artistic, cultural and spiritual treasures of St. Peter's, such as Michelangelo's "Pieta" and the Sistine Chapel in the Vatican Museum.

We can arrange for you on your Rome pilgrimage to visit the pulsing heart of the Catholic Church, the one who sits on the throne of Peter. Chosen by conclave under the auspices of the Holy Spirit, the Pope acts on behalf of Christ as he guides the church in faith. A Papal Audience enables you to walk in the midst of fellow Catholics the world over. This sea of humanity is very diverse, yet at this moment, you become one in the presence of Peter's successor.

Prior to his address, the various Rome pilgrims in attendance that day are announced to the Pope, who makes personal acknowledgement of your presence by waving and gesturing. During this experience, the Holy Father teaches the audience first hand, helping to shape your understanding of the Gospel and the church's obligation to always proclaim Christ. His holiness bestows his pontifical blessing on you and your family and the special articles of devotion you've brought to take home and bless your family and friends with his holiness.

Few places in the world have so many incredible places for worship for those Catholic groups traveling on a pilgrimage tour. Imagine having the opportunity for confession at the shrine of St Padre Pio or the privilege of celebrating a special mass in one of the many chapels of St. Peter's Basilica. Spend time in Eucharistic adoration in Siena or Orvieto. Our tour specialists will help you incorporate key sacramental experiences for your group during your pilgrimage to Rome and beyond.

Italy is the land of saints and many major religious charisms. Trace the origins of your religious order or congregation. Walk the streets of Assisi, visit the place where Francis received the stigmata, return to the shrine built by St. John Bosco, or pray in the very church St. Catherine of Siena prayed in as she discerned her vocation.

We have the flexibility to include special visits to the International headquarters of your order or congregation. We have the ability to include in-depth presentations at particular shrines or sanctuaries of importance to your group.

The amazing artistry of Da Vinci, Giotto, Botticelli, Donatello, Masaccio, Fra Angelico, Brunellescci and Michelangelo are but a few of the extraordinary painters, sculptors and architects whose masterpieces enable your eyes to contemplate beauty, holiness, sacrifice, and transcendence. Biblical figures are brought to life, important moments of faith captured in paint, and the journey of famous saints made accessible. The have created places of prayer that enable your pilgrimage tour of Rome to taste divinity and contemplate heaven. Our expert local guides will open your eyes to explore Italy with an artist's eye.

• Holy Mass Each Day
• Confession at the Shrine of Padre Pio
• Private Mass at St. Peter's Basilica
• Eucharistic Adoration in Orvieto
• Renewal of Marriage Vows at the Shrine of St. Rita
• Conclude a Novena at a Sacred Shrine
• Special Days of Prayer & Retreat