In addition to St. Peter's Basilica and the catacombs, Rome is home to a number of other places where pilgrims can celebrate Holy Week in a special way.
One of them is the Basilica of the Holy Cross in Jerusalem. In a little chapel at the back of the Church, there are relics of Jesus' crucifixion, like two thorns from the crown and pieces of the Cross.
I was almost not going to come but I could not leave Rome without visiting.
I'm trying to cover all the important places like the seven pilgrim churches, and so Santa Croce is a must!
I would recommend coming, even if you are not a Christian. At the end of the day, it's just something that's impressive to see.
Just a five minute walk from Holy Cross in Jerusalem is the Scala Santa or Holy Stairs. According to tradition, these are the 28 steps that Jesus walked to reach Pontius Pilate. Hundreds of pilgrims climb them on their knees during Holy Week.
It's beautiful. For me, it's even more beautiful because my daughters accompanied me and did it on their knees. Maybe kneeling is not as uncomfortable as it was for Jesus to climb those steps. It's just crazy to feel that He was there, that He passed this way.
'.............. It gets to you.'
This Easter will also be one of the last opportunities to visit the Pantheon for free. The Ministry of Culture and the City of Rome will be imposing an entrance fee of €5, but it has yet to be decided when.
DA
TR: KG
