Rome- The Eternal City
Rome is the home of the Vatican and the heart of the Roman Catholic Church. Associated with powerful images and people, the history of which would fill tomes in its completion, Rome is the epicenter of Christianity where the Papacy was established.
For some, a connection to the past resonates deeply, even spiritually, moving one to visit key places; to stand where another stood, to touch what another touched, to lay eyes upon that which inspired another long ago. These journeys are often intensely personal, affirming, and for some, life-altering. These connections and the heart’s desire to undertake an often long, sometimes even dangerous trek over terrain previously traveled by a historically prominent figure, are generally referred to as pilgrimages, and for many followers of the Catholic faith, Rome is the ultimate in pilgrim undertakings. It’s a reaffirmation, a renewal, of faith.
A pilgrimage to Rome is no small undertaking, but it is worth every effort. With so much history and presence, Rome houses a huge number of relics highly valued by devout pilgrims. The spiritual resonance within Vatican City is so strong that many pilgrims take this journey time and time again, earning Rome the rank of most beloved pilgrimage route in the Christian world.
Saint Peter's Square, Vatican City
There are a number of major points for pilgrim focus in Rome, and many side interests. The single greatest site in Rome for a Catholic pilgrim is St. Peter’s Basilica, a massive, intricate structure with a very long history that houses the tomb of Pope John Paul II and also displays the body of Pope John XXIII. Despite these powerful figures laid to rest in the Basilica the remains of the very first pope, St. Peter himself, are the main draw. With a good likelihood of authenticity, these highly prized relics have been the journey’s end for millions of followers since the earliest days of Christendom.
The reliquary can be viewed below the altar through a glass wall lining the back of the crypt. The Basilica, a marvel of art and beauty in itself, was begun in 324 A.D. by order of Emperor Constantine, and built over the tomb of St. Peter who had been martyred and buried on that spot. In 1506, the Basilica saw rebuilding, this time under the design of Michelangelo as architect, and chief architect Donato Bramante, while Bernini designed St. Peter’s Square. Considered the headquarters, or heart, of Catholicism, the Basilica is an absolute must for the serious or casual pilgrim.
In total, there are 5 great basilicas that are popular for pilgrimages, with St. Peter’s being the most vital, but others include Saint Mary Major Basilica, Saint John Lateran Basilica, Papal Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi, and Saint Paul Outside the Walls Basilica. Each one is popular as a pilgrim destination and should not be overlooked as a stopping point in a spiritual affirmation. Many ancient threads to the past are housed in the Basilicas, including the remains of the cedar table believed to have been used by Jesus Christ for the Last Supper, and the remnants and Saint Peter’s communion altar.
The Papal Alter and Saint Peter's Baldachin
Pilgrimages have been conducted for over a thousand years to these places, and rarely in the safety and comfort available in modern times. A holy journey could take years to complete, but many still made the routes for spiritual edification. The Via Francigena is the name of the still-usable path taken for so many centuries by pilgrims from Rome to the north. This ancient stretch linked Canterbury to Rome, and cut through France, England, Switzerland, and Italy, crossing through the Alps and the Apennines. It is not a single road as we know today, and it was not paved and had no amenities available. Instead, it is a series of possible routes that altered depending on the year, the political climate of the time, and the popularity of the shrines along the way. The Via Francigena did not connect cities, but abbeys. This road is still used today by intrepid pilgrims, who usually camp outside, as there are no hotels on the paths. From the north to Rome, the name of the road changes to Via Romea, or the ‘Way to Rome’.
While in Rome, certainly expend a little time to see such marvels as the Sistine Chapel, the Apostolic Palace, and a variety of amazing museums all standing behind the walls of Vatican City. Outside the city lies much more to explore, such as The Colosseum, the Pantheon, day trips to Naples and Pompeii, and underground crypts and catacombs. But do be aware that local Italian food, while delicious and world-famous, may not be exactly what is expected. For example, spaghetti there is not the same dish as spaghetti in the States and does not come with any sauces. Ask questions, as the locals are happy to help, even if English is not spoken.
The Eternal City has been established for nearly 1,500 years and is still thriving with spiritual gratification, and relics or art to visit. Rome’s history is ancient and literally the stuff of legends. There is so much to see and experience here it could easily take a lifetime. The needs and demands of a modern and technological life can distract from what is truly important; spiritual health and wellbeing. Sometimes, personal and vital relationships get ignored in the hustle and bustle, and when that happens, it is time to reconnect, take a walk with the Savior, where he walked in His teachings. A pilgrimage to the heart of Christianity might be exactly the lifeline needed to strengthen faith for the life hereafter.
August 23 2010 12:42 pm | Uncategorized