Rome is a city rich in spiritual heritage, home to some of the most sacred sites in Christianity. Among its many treasures, the Seven Pilgrimage Churches stand out as a symbol of faith, offering a path that pilgrims have walked for centuries.
These churches, each with their own historical and architectural significance, are part of a traditional pilgrimage known as the Seven Churches Walk.
In this guide, we’ll take you through the origins of this tradition and provide an in-depth look at the seven churches that make up this spiritual journey, including how to get there, things to do, and the best times to visit.
Whether you’re a pilgrim or a traveler, these sacred sites offer an unparalleled connection to the history of Rome and the Christian faith.
The 5 Papal Basilicas
The five papal basilicas are the most significant churches in Roman Catholicism, holding a special status under the Holy See and entrusted directly to the Pope.
Originally known as patriarchal basilicas, they were the ecclesiastical seats for the 5 patriarchates of early Christianity. Each basilica holds unique importance, from serving as the burial site of an apostle to playing a central role in the history of the Church.
Here are the five papal basilicas included in the pilgrimage:
1. Basilica of Saint John Lateran (Major Papal Archbasilica)
The Mother and Head of all Churches on Earth
The Basilica of Saint John Lateran, also known as the Archbasilica of the Most Holy Savior, is the oldest public church in the Western world and holds the title of the Mother and Head of all Churches. Commissioned by Constantine the Great in 315 AD and consecrated in 324 AD, it serves as the seat of the Pope, making it the most important of the papal basilicas.
Notable features include the Baroque and Renaissance architecture, stunning frescoes, and the Holy Stairs (Scala Sancta) opposite the basilica, believed to be the steps that Jesus ascended during his Passion. Pilgrims often climb these stairs on their knees in an act of devotion. The Sancta Sanctorum, located at the top of the stairs, houses relics including a wooden table said to have been used by Saint Peter.
- Address: Piazza di San Giovanni in Laterano, 4, 00184 Roma
- Opening Hours: Basilica: 7 am - 6:30 pm, Sacristy: 8 am - 12 pm & 4 pm - 6 pm, Cloister: 9 am - 6 pm
- Read more about Basilica of Saint John Lateran
2. Saint Peter's Basilica (Major Papal Basilica)
Renaissance Grace & Baroque Splendor: Where Faith Meets Majesty
Saint Peter's Basilica, located in Vatican City, is one of the most iconic churches in the world, representing centuries of Christian faith and architectural brilliance. Built over the tomb of Saint Peter, the first Pope, it is a major site for pilgrims and tourists alike.
The basilica was designed by some of the greatest architects of the Renaissance, including Michelangelo, who created its magnificent dome. Inside, you’ll find Michelangelo’s Pietà, Bernini’s Baldachin, and the Tomb of Saint Peter. Climbing to the top of the dome offers breathtaking views of Rome.
- Address: Piazza San Pietro, 00120 Città del Vaticano
- Opening Hours: Daily from 7:00 am to 7:10 pm
- Dome Opening Hours:
- Summer: 7:30 am - 6:00 pm
- Winter: 7:30 am - 5:00 pm
- Read more about Saint Peter's Basilica
3. Basilica of Saint Paul Outside the Walls (Major Papal Basilica)
Walk in the Footsteps of Apostle Paul
The Basilica of Saint Paul Outside the Walls stands on the site where Saint Paul was buried following his martyrdom in Rome. It was originally commissioned by Emperor Constantine in the 4th century and rebuilt several times over the centuries, most recently after a devastating fire in 1823.
The basilica’s Romanesque design and expansive colonnade create an awe-inspiring atmosphere. Inside, the portraits of the popes, the triumphal arch mosaics, and the tomb of Saint Paul are highlights not to be missed.
- Address: Piazzale San Paolo, 1, 00146 Roma
- Opening Hours: Basilica: 7 am - 6:30 pm, Cloister: 9 am - 5:30 pm, Sacristy: 7 am - 12 pm & 4 pm - 6:30 pm
- Read more about Basilica of Saint Paul Outside the Walls
4. Basilica of St. Mary Major (Major Papal Basilica)
Snowflakes, Saints & Sacred Silence
The Basilica of St. Mary Major is one of the oldest churches in Rome dedicated to the Virgin Mary. Built in the 5th century, it is famous for its connection to the legendary snowfall that marked the site of its construction.
Highlights include the early Christian mosaics, the Marian icon attributed to Saint Luke, and the Holy Crib, believed to contain fragments of the manger where Jesus was born. The basilica also houses the tomb of Gian Lorenzo Bernini, the famous sculptor.
- Address: Piazza di Santa Maria Maggiore, 00100 Roma
- Opening Hours: Daily from 7 am - 7 pm, Last admission: 6:30 pm
5. Basilica of Saint Lawrence Outside the Walls (Minor Papal Basilica)
Sanctuary of Serenity and Martyrdom
The Basilica of Saint Lawrence Outside the Walls is dedicated to one of the most revered Christian martyrs, Saint Lawrence. The basilica dates back to the 4th century, and its medieval architecture houses relics of Saint Lawrence, Saint Stephen, and several Popes.
The basilica features ancient columns, intricate mosaics, and frescoes that depict the life and martyrdom of Saint Lawrence. The serene cloister offers a peaceful retreat for reflection.
- Address: Piazzale del Verano, 3, 00185 Roma
- Opening Hours: Daily from 7:30 am - 12 noon & 4 pm - 7 pm
Completing the 7 Pilgrimage Churches
In addition to the five papal basilicas, the pilgrimage churches originally included the Basilica of the Holy Cross in Jerusalem and the Basilica of Saint Sebastian Outside the Walls, both minor basilicas, until the Holy Year 2000.
However, in that Holy Year, Pope John Paul II added the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Divine Love to the list in place of Saint Sebastian. This change to the centuries-old tradition has not yet been fully adopted by pilgrims.
Therefore, we will first present the original basilica and then take a look at the sanctuary.
6. Basilica of the Holy Cross in Jerusalem (Minor Basilica)
Where Pilgrims Meet Relics from the Holy Land
Founded in the 4th century to house relics brought from the Holy Land by Saint Helena, the Basilica of the Holy Cross in Jerusalem is one of the most revered pilgrimage sites in Rome. The basilica holds relics of the True Cross, Thorns from the Crown, and the Holy Nail.
- Address: Piazza di S. Croce in Gerusalemme, 10, 00185 Roma
- Opening Hours: Monday to Friday from 7:30 am - 7:30 pm
7. Basilica of Saint Sebastian Outside the Walls (Minor Basilica)
A Testament to Early Christian Faith
Located along the Via Appia Antica, the Basilica of Saint Sebastian Outside the Walls was built over the catacombswhere Saint Sebastian was originally buried. It remains an important pilgrimage site, particularly for those interested in early Christian history.
- Address: Via Appia Antica, 136, 00179 Roma
- Opening Hours: Daily from 10 am - 5 pm
8. Sanctuary of Our Lady of Divine Love (Shrine)
A Sacred Site of Miracles
Added to the Seven Churches Walk by Pope John Paul II in 2000, the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Divine Love is a shrine dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary. This miracle site is renowned for its healing powers and spiritual significance.
- Address: Via del Santuario, 10, 00134 Roma
- Opening Hours: 24 hours daily, all year round
The Seven Pilgrimage Churches of Rome offer more than just architectural beauty and historical significance; they provide a spiritual journey through the heart of Christianity.
From the magnificence of Saint Peter's Basilica to the humble serenity of Saint Lawrence, each church tells its own story. Whether you’re seeking faith, history, or simply a deeper connection to the Eternal City, this pilgrimage offers an experience like no other.