Rome is a city like no other, capable of telling millennia-old stories through its monuments, neighborhoods, and churches. In recent years, a new narrative has been woven into its traditional fabric: the story of Pope Francis, a pontiff who has brought his message of simplicity, mercy, and closeness to the marginalized to the Eternal City. If you’re planning a trip to Rome, we invite you to embark on a moving itinerary through the places that have defined his pontificate.
Our journey inevitably starts at the Vatican. Here, in the heart of Christianity, Pope Francis has celebrated some of the most solemn moments of his ministry, such as Christmas Mass and the “Urbi et Orbi” blessing. The majestic St. Peter’s Basilica stands as the spiritual center of his pontificate, one marked by openness to dialogue and hospitality.
Walking through St. Peter’s Square, under Bernini’s colonnades and past the statue of the Apostle Peter, you can feel the spirit of a Church that Pope Francis has worked tirelessly to bring closer to the people.
One of Pope Francis’ first acts after his election was to visit the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore to entrust his pontificate to the Virgin Mary, Salus Populi Romani. This deep bond with the Virgin Mary remained a defining feature of his ministry.
It is here, in this basilica, that Pope Francis chose to be buried, in accordance with his desire for a life—and afterlife—marked by simplicity and popular devotion. Visiting Santa Maria Maggiore offers a direct encounter with the spiritual core of his papacy.
Pope Francis has always emphasized the importance of a “Church that goes forth,” one capable of reaching both existential and geographical peripheries. During his pontificate, he made several visits to working-class districts such as Tor Bella Monaca, Corviale, Ostia, and Centocelle.
Walking through these neighborhoods reveals an authentic Rome, far from traditional tourist circuits but rich in humanity, solidarity, and hope. It was in these very streets that Pope Francis celebrated Masses, met families, and listened to stories of resilience, leaving an indelible mark.
Beyond churches, Pope Francis’ pontificate has profoundly impacted many of Rome’s social realities. Under the colonnade of St. Peter’s Square, the “Mother of Mercy” clinic was established, offering free medical care to the poor. Several initiatives supporting the homeless, migrants, and prisoners have also been launched. Visiting places like the Centro Astalli, which assists asylum seekers and refugees, allows travelers to witness the Church’s daily commitment to charity under Pope Francis’ guidance.
To best organize your pilgrimage through the places associated with Pope Francis, it’s essential to plan practically. With Forexchange, travelers can book services in advance, enjoy multilingual assistance, and experience their journey with peace of mind. Booking your currency exchange online allows you to secure cash beforehand, which is particularly handy for offerings at religious sites or small local purchases. Find your nearest Forexchange branch in Rome easily.
Rome offers endless opportunities for discovery. With Forexchange Experience Tours, you can take guided tours of St. Peter’s Basilica or explore Rome’s historic basilicas and catacombs.
You can also enjoy cultural walks through traditional neighborhoods like Trastevere or book skip-the-line entries to major sites such as the Vatican Museums and the Colosseum.
Each Experience is designed to help you live Rome in an authentic, profound way.
Visiting the symbolic places of Pope Francis’ pontificate is much more than sightseeing—it’s an emotional journey of encounter, reflection, and openness to others. From the grandeur of St. Peter’s Basilica to the intimacy of Santa Maria Maggiore, from Rome’s urban outskirts to its daily works of charity, the Eternal City today tells the living, contemporary story of a man who has transformed the image of the Church worldwide.
Plan your trip carefully, explore with an open heart, and for every practical need, trust Forexchange: your ideal partner for a worry-free journey.
Photo Credits:
DomyD, Pixabay
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