Rome: Around 30-35 million extra people were expected to visit Rome for this year’s historic Catholic Jubilee celebrations. However, when the much-loved Pope Francis died just four months into the celebrations some might have expected the Jubilee year to fade into an anti-climax. Instead, the election of Pope Leo XIV has helped to lift people’s grief and successful events such as the Jubilee of Youth have seen record numbers visit the Eternal City.
Johanna Jernberg, a leading travel expert from Monasteries.com, says: ‘Last year, 30 million people flocked to the Eternal City and that figure was already set to double or even triple for the 2025 Jubilee celebrations. Amazingly, these continued without major cancellations throughout this eventful year, albeit sometimes with a modified schedule.
‘Events such as the Jubilee of Families in May, the Jubilee of Sport in June and the Jubilee of Youth in July saw many thousands of people of all ages flock to Rome to take part. A number of events even culminated in an unscheduled address by the new Pope.
‘The special events have continued this month, including the canonisation of the first millennial saint, Carlo Acutis, a young web content creator who was born in London and who built websites documenting miracles. Many more celebrations are also scheduled for the rest of September and October and, indeed, right through the year.
‘Fortunately, with hotel accommodation in short supply and prices remaining high even into the autumn, there is a very appropriate alternative. In keeping with the historic Jubilee celebrations, visitors can stay in one of Rome’s many monasteries, convents or religious guest houses. Many of these are throwing open their doors to the public for the entire Jubilee period. What could be a more fitting place to stay?
‘Monasteries.com lists monasteries and convents that are sited across the city. Most are far more budget-friendly than hotels or holiday lets. For example, one recommendation is La Casa Il Rosario. Belonging to the Dominican Sisters of Charity, this centrally situated guesthouse comes equipped with plenty of amenities – including heating and air conditioning – and is bookable for a minimum of two nights and a maximum of 10 days. It still has limited availability for September and October from as little as £56.07 per night for a single ensuite room with bed & breakfast included, although it’s getting booked up fast.
‘For more about staying in Rome on a budget, even during this incredibly busy and historic period, see the full online guide at https://www.monasteries.com/en-GB/city/rome/home/
