Pope Francis inaugurated the 2025 Holy Year on Tuesday, reviving a centuries-old tradition that encourages pilgrimages to Rome. The Holy Year will see an estimated 32 million pilgrims visiting Rome, with the Holy Door at St. Peter’s Basilica remaining open throughout the year for them to pass through.
Indulgences, a feature of the Catholic Church related to the forgiveness of sins, play a significant role in Holy Year pilgrimages. Catholics can obtain indulgences by participating in pious pilgrimages, works of charity, and acts of penance.
One of the key focuses of this Holy Year is ministry to prisoners, reflecting Pope Francis' dedication to giving hope to those in need. The Jubilee calendar is packed with official and unofficial events, testing the stamina of the 88-year-old Pope.
Security measures for the influx of visitors include traditional policing, high-tech surveillance using drones and cameras, and advanced algorithms to monitor crowd sizes in real time.
Rome has undergone extensive preparations for the Holy Year, with ongoing public works projects and artistic renovations. Despite some delays, progress is visible with the restoration of iconic landmarks like Bernini’s fountains and the reopening of the Trevi Fountain.
The Vatican and Rome are taking extra precautions following recent security threats, ensuring the safety of pilgrims and visitors during this significant event.
