Rome, the Eternal City, holds an irresistible allure for Catholics – especially during a Jubilee Year. Pilgrims from all around the world flock to the Città Eterna city to renew their faith and walk in the footsteps of saints. But beyond the well-worn tourist paths lies a Rome cherished by locals, rich in spiritual and cultural treasures. Here’s how to experience Rome like a true Roman during the Jubilee.
Start the day with a local breakfast
Skip the hotel breakfast and head to a neighborhood cafe. Romans start their day with a “caffè” (espresso) and a cornetto – a pastry similar to a croissant but sweeter. One of the most authentic experiences is to sit or stand at the bar with the locals, sipping your coffee while watching the morning bustle. Try cafes in Trastevere or the Prati district.
Explore lesser-known churches
While St. Peter’s and the major basilicas are must-sees, Rome is home to over 900 churches, many of which are often overlooked by tourists. Visit, for example, the Basilica of San Clemente, where you can explore layers of history, from an ancient Roman house to a 12th-century basilica. Another gem is Santa Maria Sopra Minerva, the only Gothic church in Rome (don’t be fooled by its restrained Renaissance façade), with its stunning blue ceiling and Michelangelo’s Christ the Redeemer.
[For a photographic tour of 40 of these churches, see our series on those visited by the Lenten practice of the "Station Churches."]
Indulge in a leisurely pranzo
Lunch, or “pranzo,” is a sacred time for Romans. Opt for a “trattoria” rather than a tourist restaurant. In areas like Testaccio or Monti, you can enjoy traditional Roman dishes like cacio e pepe, carbonara, or saltimbocca alla Romana. Take your time; meals in Rome are meant to be savored.
Walk the streets of the city
Rome is a city best explored on foot – despite its sometimes challenging distances. Stroll through the cobblestone streets and discover hidden piazzas, fountains and artisan shops. Areas such as Trastevere, the Esquilino, San Lorenzo, and the Jewish Ghetto offer a glimpse into the city’s rich history and vibrant present. Walking also allows you to stumble upon quaint churches that offer quiet moments of prayer and reflection.
Attend evening prayer
End your day as Romans do: with an evening stroll, or “passeggiata.” Visit a local church for vespers, or evening prayer. Churches such as San Giovanni in Laterano or Santa Maria in Trastevere offer beautiful settings for evening prayer. As the sun sets, the spiritual atmosphere of the city is palpable, reminding you that Rome is not just a place to visit, but a place to experience the depth of your faith.
In the Jubilee Year, Rome is a city of pilgrimage and renewal. By embracing the local way of life, you’ll find the Eternal City at its most authentic and spiritually enriching.
