Archive · 5 Jan 2026
Rome Sees Record 33.5 Million Pilgrims
Rome had a very special year called the Holy Year, which happens every 25 years.
This year, 33.5 million people from all over the world came to Rome to visit.
The city spent a lot of money to fix up places for the visitors, like building new things and fixing old ones.
Some people were happy because it brought a lot of visitors and money to the city.
But others were not happy because there was a lot of construction, and it was hard to find places to live long-term.
The Holy Year was opened by one pope and will be closed by another, which is very rare.
The next special Holy Year might be in 2033.
Rome welcomed a record 33.5 million pilgrims for the Catholic Holy Year in 2025.
The city spent 3.7 billion euros on 3,200 construction projects to prepare for the event.
Pilgrims came from 185 countries, with the most visitors from Italy, the United States, Spain, Brazil, and Poland.
The Holy Year was opened by Pope Francis and will be closed by his successor, Pope Leo, a rarity not seen in 300 years.
The next special Jubilee year is expected in 2033, marking 2,000 years since the death of Jesus.
- Who
- Pilgrims from 185 countries, Vatican and Italian officials
- What
- Record 33.5 million pilgrims visited Rome for the Catholic Holy Year
- When
- 2025, ending on Tuesday
- Where
- Rome, Italy
- Why
- To participate in the Catholic Holy Year, a time of peace, forgiveness, and pardon
- Number of Pilgrims
- 33.5 million
- Funding
- 3.7 billion euros
- Construction Projects
- 3,200
- Countries Represented
- 185
- Top Countries
- Italy, United States, Spain, Brazil, Poland
- Next Jubilee
- 2033 (special)
- Popes Involved
- Francis (opened), Leo (closing)
- Last Jubilee with Two Popes
- 1700