A pilgrimage is a journey, often into an unknown or foreign place, where a person goes in search of new or expanded meaning about their self, others, nature, or their faith through the experience. It can lead to a personal transformation, which the pilgrim takes back to daily life.
This tailored itinerary will introduce you to the wonders of Italy while offering insight into the way of life – past and present – of the Bel Paese, the ‘beautiful country.’ Take in many main sites of Rome, Assisi and Florence (and possibly Siena), enhanced by insights from Father Rob and your knowledgeable tour guides into the rich and extensive history that has shaped the world in so many ways.
Set eyes on some of the most important artworks (religious and otherwise) ever created, see world-famous architecture, stroll along stunning streets and step into glorious squares, all whilst experiencing some of the most poignant spiritual locations to exist. Of course, savor tastes that are famous around the world… yet never quite as exquisite as when enjoyed in situ.
Along the way, enjoy special times of prayer, meditation and reflection in various religious locations, including the tombs of St. Peter, St. Paul, and St. Francis – three men whose faith and witness shaped the church. Scriptures, poems, sculptures, and art will elevate your spiritual journey in lasting and memorable ways.
The following itinerary outlines our travels and points out when meals are included in your price and when they are not. We have built in free time so that participants can explore, pray, eat, shop, rest, or read. During these times, couples or small groups can enjoy experiences and exploration together. For planned and included group meals, we will have time for some discussion, instruction, and reflection.
Participants will make flight arrangements themselves since many will be coming and going from different places in the USA or even from/to Europe. We also know that many people have points to use for flights and that different levels of flight experience will be chosen. There are many non-stop flights to Rome (FCO) and the airport in Florence is a good departure site. Some may already be in Rome or Italy before hand; simply get yourselves to the group’s hotel by the afternoon of October 21—which means flights from the US would need to depart on October 20, 2023 or earlier.
Get ready to walk: The pilgrimage includes a moderate amount of walking (5-6 miles a day, but not all at once! and not too fast) and occasional use of stairs or steeply sloped pathways. Towns like Assisi and Siena are hilly. Walking surfaces may be uneven or unpaved. Some of the places that we will be visiting can only be seen on foot with no other access possible.
Please be mindful of this parameter when registering.
* We need a minimum of 15 sign-ups by 28 February 2023 in order to guarantee the departure for the pilgrimage trip and a minimum guarantee of 6 sign-ups by 28 February 2023 in order to guarantee the departure for Siena extension. If you are interested don’t delay and register now!