Italy

Essential Rome

Rome

Introduction

From as early as the third century pilgrims were making their way across Europe to Rome in order to pray at the tombs of the Apostles and martyrs, Peter and Paul. Down through the centuries Christians have continued to journey here because of the unique place that these saints occupy as founders of the Church. Times may have changed much of the city but we are part of the Church that was established here and still have much to gain in reflecting on our faith  as we visit the ancient sites and churches that witnessed the beginnings and growth of Christianity.

 

Basic Itinerary

DAY ONE - MONDAY

London - Rome

We fly from London or a regional airport to Rome on a scheduled flight. Transfer to our hotel near to the Vatican, for a four-night stay. Before dinner in a local restaurant (included tonight), we walk to St Peter's Square for our first view of the Vatican.

DAY TWO - TUESDAY

St Peter's Basilica - St Paul Outside the Walls - Catacombs - St Peter's

This morning we walk to St Peter’s for a tour of the basilica including the Pieta and the crypt, which contains the tombs of several popes, including the late Pope John Paul II. After time for lunch at choice we visit the Basilica of St Paul Outside the Walls, built over the site of the saint’s martyrdom (where Mass will be celebrated), then go on to one of the catacombs, burial place for the early Christians. In the late afternoon we return to our hotel. Dinner will be in a local restaurant.

DAY THREE - WEDNESDAY

Papal Audience - St John Lateran - Scala Santa - Santa Croce

This morning we take our seats in St Peter’s Square for the weekly General Papal Audience (if His Holiness is in Rome at the time). After lunch (included today) our coach and guide take us to two of the churches that all pilgrims to Rome must see. We visit the cathedral of Rome, St John Lateran, and afterwards cross the road to see the Scala Santa – the steps brought back from Jerusalem by Empress Helena in the 4th century and said to be those ascended by Christ on his way to Calvary. We continue to Santa Croce, which contains a fragment of the True Cross, again brought back by Empress Helena. Dinner will be at our own expense tonight.

DAY FOUR - THURSDAY

Ancient Rome - London

Early morning Mass will be celebrated at St Peter's Basilica. After breakfast we ascend Michelangelo’s Campidoglio for the view over the Forum and continue past the Coliseum, visiting the Mamertine Prison, where Ss. Peter and Paul were imprisoned. Our final visit is to the beautiful church of San Clemente with its splendid mosaics, built over the remains of a Temple of Mithras and ancient catacombs. This afternoon we transfer to Rome Ciampino Airport for our return flight to the U.K.

Travel Dates and Cost:

13th September 2010 - 16th September 2010
29th November 2010 - 2nd December 2010
Four days
£549
£449

Book now

Terms of Payment:

Deposit of £120 per person on booking (plus insurance if required). The final payment is due two months before the departure date.

THIS TRIP INCLUDES:

Return scheduled flights: London - Rome. U.K. and Italy airport taxes. 3-nights accommodation in shared twin-bedded room with private facilities, Rome. Meal plan: 3 continental breakfasts and 1 lunch and 2 dinners. Coach transfers from Rome Ciampino Airport to the hotel and return. 3 full-day coaches within Rome. Religious services.

EXTRAS:

Travel insurance, currently at £23.00 per person unless insured elsewhere. Single room supplement at £60 for the three nights (limited number of single rooms available). All food and drink on board the flights, meals not included in the itinerary, drinks and souvenirs.

RELIGIOUS DENOMINATIONS AND WORSHIP:

Ecumenical

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