Iter Europaeum: A Journey Through Europe to Rome for the 2025 Jubilee

The Route of the Iter Europaeum

The Iter Europaeum pilgrimage, designated for the 2025 Jubilee, meanders through 25 Roman churches, each epitomizing a European country or the European Union itself. This route invites believers to meditate on the continent's spiritual dimension and Christianity's contributions to its cultural formation. Visiting these churches deepens the understanding of the interplay between religion and national identity, tracing a path through centuries of history and devotion

The Patron Saints of Europe

A key aspect of the pilgrimage is recalling the Patron Saints of Europe, pivotal to spreading Christianity and molding European identity. Notable among them are:

• Saint Benedict of Norcia: As the founder of Western monasticism, Saint Benedict, dubbed the "father of Europe," left a lasting influence on Christian culture and the continent’s spiritual framework.

• Saints Cyril and Methodius: Missionaries to the Slavic peoples, Cyril and Methodius are honored for devising the Glagolitic alphabet and translating the Bible into Slavic, thereby aiding the expansion of Christianity in Eastern Europe.

• Saint Teresa Benedicta of the Cross (Edith Stein): Philosopher and martyr, Edith Stein’s journey—from her Jewish origins to her conversion to Catholicism and her tragic demise at Auschwitz—bridges Jewish and Christian traditions.

• Saint Catherine of Siena: A mystic and Doctor of the Church, Saint Catherine’s vital roles in both religious and political spheres were instrumental in returning the papacy from Avignon to Rome.

• Saint Bridget of Sweden: Founder of the Order of the Most Holy Savior, Saint Bridget's visions melded spirituality with social action, solidifying her status as a prominent figure in Northern Christianity.

The Churches of the Iter Europaeum

1. Austria - Santa Maria dell'Anima

Nestled near Piazza Navona, the 15th-century Church of Our Lady of the Soul serves as a spiritual hub for the German-speaking community in Rome. Renowned for its Renaissance architecture, it stands as a vibrant venue for cultural and religious events.

2. Belgium - San Giuliano dei Fiamminghi

The Church of St. Julian of the Flemings serves as the worship center for the Belgian community in Rome. Originating in the 15th century, this quaint and captivating church is nestled in the heart of the city near Piazza Navona. Historically, it has been a welcoming site for Flemish pilgrims and today, it stands as a beacon of Belgium's rich cultural heritage in Rome.

3. Bulgaria - San Paolo alla Regola

Located in the eponymous district, the Church of St. Paul at Regola is erected on the site believed to be the residence of the Apostle Paul during his Roman sojourn. This church is deeply embedded in Bulgarian spiritual traditions, making it a significant place of worship for the Bulgarian community in Rome.

4. Czech Republic - San Clemente

The Basilica of Saint Clement, one of Rome's oldest churches, is renowned for its multi-layered architectural history that spans several centuries. Standing atop a Roman house and a Mithraeum, the current structure dates back to the 12th century and houses the relics of St. Cyril, the co-patron of Europe and the apostle of the Slavic nations. It is a crucial spiritual hub for Czech pilgrims.

5. Cyprus - San Teodoro al Palatino

Near the Roman Forum stands the Church of Saint Theodore at Palatino, one of the earliest churches in Rome, established in the 6th century. It is currently utilized by the Greek Orthodox community, symbolizing a significant ecumenical bridge between Western and Eastern Christian traditions. The church holds connections to both Greece and Cyprus, reflecting their shared Orthodox heritage.

6. Croazia - San Girolamo dei Croati in Urbe

The Church of Saint Jerome of the Croats is the focal point for the Croatian community in Rome. Dedicated to St. Jerome, a pivotal scholar and the Bible's translator into Latin, the church, built in the 15th century, resonates deeply with Croatian spiritual life and devotion. It is an essential place of prayer for Croatian pilgrims visiting Rome.

7. Denmark - Campo Santo Teutonico

Adjacent to St. Peter's Basilica, the Teutonic Cemetery and Chapel (Campo Santo Teutonico) has historically served as both a burial and a pilgrimage site for Catholics of Germanic origins. Today, it functions as a gathering place for Catholics from various European nations, fostering a sense of community across borders.

8. Estonia - Campo Santo Teutonico

Estonia, like Denmark, is represented at the Teutonic Cemetery and Chapel, a site with historical ties to Germanic pilgrims next to St. Peter’s Basilica. Currently, it serves as an essential congregational spot for Catholics from various parts of Europe.

9. Finland - Santa Maria sopra Minerva

This Gothic church stands proudly near the Pantheon on the site of an ancient temple dedicated to the goddess Minerva. The Church of Saint Mary above Minerva is notable for its rich artistic legacy, including Michelangelo's celebrated Resurrected Christ and tombs of illustrious individuals like St. Catherine of Siena — Doctor of the Church and Italian patron saint — it is a crucial spiritual and cultural hub frequented by the Finnish Catholic community.

10. France - San Luigi dei Francesi

Situated between Piazza Navona and the Pantheon, the Church of St. Louis of the French is the official French national church in Rome. Famous for housing three of Caravaggio's masterpieces depicting the life of St. Matthew, it serves as a crucial cultural and spiritual touchstone for the French community and pilgrims eager to explore sacred art and France’s historical presence in Rome.

11. Germany - Chiesa del Cristo (Evangelical Lutheran)

The Christ Church is the principal Evangelical Lutheran place of worship in Rome, nestled in the diplomatic district near Villa Borghese. It serves as a vital spiritual hub for the German and German-speaking Protestant community. The church is celebrated for its Neo-Romanesque architecture and as a gathering point for adherents of the Lutheran tradition, whether residing in or visiting Rome.

12. Greece - San Teodoro al Palatino

St. Theodore's Church at the Palatine is situated near the Colosseum and is among Rome's most venerable churches, tracing its origins back to the 6th century. Currently, it serves the Greek Orthodox community and embodies a symbol of ecumenical dialogue, notably through its historical and ongoing interactions with various Christian denominations. Perched on the historic Palatine Hill, the church mirrors the rich religious and cultural tapestries of both Rome and Greece.

13. Ireland - Sant’Isidoro a Capo le Case

St. Isidore's Church at Capo le Case, a Franciscan establishment in Rome's core, is a cherished landmark within the Irish community. Founded in the 17th century and named after St. Isidore the Farmer, the saint of Spain, the church is home to an active Irish congregation engaging in frequent liturgical celebrations.

14. Italy - Santa Maria degli Angeli e dei Martiri

The Basilica of St. Mary of the Angels and the Martyrs, designed by Michelangelo and housed within the ancient Baths of Diocletian, stands as a monumental structure in Rome. Dedicated to the angels and Christian martyrs, it is deeply valued for Italian national celebrations and its magnificent architecture, which harmoniously blends Roman grandeur with Christian spirituality.

15. Latvia - Santi Quattro Coronati

The Basilica of the Saints Four Crowned Martyrs, an ancient fortified church on Caelian Hill, is steeped in the lore of the martyrdom of four Roman sculptor saints. Known for its serene ambiance conducive to prayer, it represents a crucial spiritual center for Latvia, symbolizing Christian faith and resilience.

16. Lithuania - Chiesa del Gesù

The Church of Jesus, the main sanctuary for the Society of Jesus in Rome, showcases one of the finest examples of Baroque architecture. It houses the remains of St. Ignatius of Loyola, the order's founder, and features a prominent fresco that celebrates the triumph of faith. This site holds significant relevance for the Lithuanian community, reflecting the profound Jesuit influence in their religious tradition.

17. Luxembourg - Sacro Cuore di Gesù

The Church of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, a modern building in the heart of Rome, is dedicated to fostering devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. It acts as a significant landmark for the Luxembourg community in Rome, hosting celebrations that reflect the spirituality of Christ's heart and the church’s commitment to social outreach.

18. Malta - Santa Maria del Priorato

Situated on the scenic Aventine Hill, the Church of St. Mary of the Priory, linked to the Order of Malta, was established in the 12th century. Created by the renowned architect Piranesi, it serves as a pivotal spiritual center for the Order. Known for its longstanding tradition of charitable work and defense of the Catholic faith, its strategic position and historical importance make it an essential destination for pilgrims.

19. Netherlands - Santi Michele e Magno

The Church of Santi Michele e Magno, located near the Vatican, serves as the national church for Dutch pilgrims in Rome. Founded in the 9th century, it has historically been a welcome center for both Flemish and Dutch pilgrims journeying to Saint Peter's tomb. With its storied past and proximity to the Vatican, this church is a beacon of deep devotion for the Dutch community.

20. Poland - Chiesa ed Ospizio di San Stanislao

The Church of Saint Stanislaus stands as the spiritual heart of the Polish community in Rome. Founded in the 16th century, it is dedicated to Saint Stanislaus, the patron saint of Poland, and includes a hospice historically serving Polish pilgrims visiting Rome. Located near Piazza Navona, it is a focal point of devotion for the Polish, hosting religious celebrations and national commemorations.

21. Portugal - Sant’Antonio dei Portoghesi

The Church of Saint Anthony of the Portuguese, commonly known as Saint Anthony in Campo Marzio, is the cultural and spiritual hub for the Portuguese community in Rome. Dedicated to Saint Anthony of Padua, a revered Portuguese saint, the church is distinguished by its opulent Baroque style and the vibrant religious celebrations attracting numerous pilgrims. Its prime location in the city’s historical center underscores its significant cultural and spiritual role for Portuguese faithful.

22. Romania - San Salvatore alle Coppelle

The Church of San Salvatore alle Coppelle, a modest yet significant church in the heart of Rome, is closely tied to the Romanian Catholic community. It provides a sacred space where Romanian pilgrims can engage in religious rites that resonate deeply with Romanian cultural traditions.

23. Slovakia - Pontificio Istituto Slovacco dei Santi Cirillo e Metodio

This institute, nestled in Rome, is devoted to Saints Cyril and Methodius, apostles to the Slavs and patrons of Europe. The Pontifical Slovak Institute of Saints Cyril and Methodius acts as a vital center for religious education for Slovak clergy and a point of reference for Slovak pilgrims. It stands as a place of prayer and scholarship, celebrating the profound spiritual legacy of Cyril and Methodius in propagating Christianity across Eastern Europe.

24. Slovenia - Santa Maria Maggiore

St. Mary Major Basilica, one of the four major papal basilicas, has been designated to represent the Slovenian community in Rome. Famous for its Paleochristian mosaics and devoted Marian worship, the basilica serves as a symbol of faith and heritage for the Slovenian faithful.

25. Spain - San Pietro in Montorio

Located on the Janiculum Hill, the Church of San Pietro in Montorio is celebrated for housing Bramante's iconic Tempietto, constructed at the site traditionally linked to the crucifixion of Saint Peter. This church, integral to the Spanish community in Rome, is a significant pilgrimage landmark, embodying the deep ties between Spain and Christian history.

26. Sweden - Santa Brigida a Campo de’ Fiori

In the vibrant heart of Rome, the Church of Saint Bridget at Campo de' Fiori includes the residence where Saint Bridget lived during her Roman sojourn, making it a key site for Swedish and Nordic pilgrims. The church mirrors Saint Bridget’s profound devotion and her spiritual dedication to peace and unity.

27. Hungary - Santo Stefano Rotondo al Celio

One of Rome's Oldest Churches the Basilica of St. Stephen in the Round on the Caelian Hill is dedicated to Saint Stephen, the first Christian martyr and the patron saint of Hungary. Erected in the 5th century, the church features a distinctive circular layout that sets it apart. It is deeply intertwined with the religious heritage of Hungary and has become a significant pilgrimage site for Hungarian devotees.

28. European Union - Campo Santo Teutonico

Nestled alongside St. Peter's Basilica, Campo Santo Teutonico serves both as an ancient cemetery and a church for Germanic-origin pilgrims. Today, it functions as a focal point for Catholics from diverse European nations, epitomizing the unity emblematic of the European Union.

Conclusion

The Iter Europaeum is a pilgrimage that weaves together faith and the cultural heritage of Europe, honoring the deep historical connections among nations and the Church in anticipation of the 2025 Jubilee. Each participating church provides pilgrims with a distinctive gateway to explore the spiritual depths and historical narratives of Christianity throughout Europe