Italy expected to draw travelers by the millions as Pope Francis kicks off Holy Year

The Jubilee, also known as the Holy Year, will soon take place with visitors flocking to Rome, the Vatican City and across Italy.

It is a sacred event for the Catholic Church typically held every 25 years for patrons to ask forgiveness for their sins.

"The main activities will take place in and around Vatican City, with an estimated 35 million people traveling for this milestone year. While Rome will be very busy, there are so many other wonderful places to visit in Italy, ready to welcome travelers," said D'Aria.

The extraordinary Jubilee, not predetermined in advance, in 2016 was also held under the reign of Pope Francis, with more than 3.9 million visitors attending events and services, according to the Prefecture of the Pontifical Household.

In 2023, there were 36 million tourists visiting the Lazio region, where Rome is located, according to the Roma Capitale annual statics report.

The Jubilee will conclude on Jan. 6, 2026, with the closing of the Holy Door in the Papal Basilica of Saint Peter in the Vatican, "the Solemnity of the Epiphany of the Lord."