Italy has an embarrassment of riches to offer the traveller, artistic treasures, historical sites, enchanting landscapes and of course good food and wine. Unfairly, Italy can also claim to be a pilgrim’s paradise for not only can it call itself the cradle of Christianity but throughout history it has given birth to a stream of remarkable men and women who have contributed so much to the development of the Church. Today we can visit any corner of this country and find both sanctuaries and scenery that inspire us spiritually and increase our understanding of our faith. It is not difficult to see why Italy is so popular, as it has it all: sun, beautiful landscapes, good food and wine.

For the Christian traveller however, all this serves only as a backdrop for the enormous influence that this country has had on the history of Christendom. It was in Rome that the tradition of the successors of Peter was established and hence the papacy. Throughout Italy some great influential Christians have been born such as Francis of Assisi and more recently Padre Pio, who have inspired believers and non-believers alike. A pilgrimage in Italy is the best of both worlds; it offers many sanctuaries and holy places for reflection and consideration complemented by journeys through stunning scenery and historic towns.