A Pilgrimage to the Shrines of Italy Under The Spiritual Direction Of Fr. Aldrin Tayag

Today we board our overnight flight to Italy as our spiritual pilgrimage begins. Sit back, relax, and enjoy onboard meals, entertainment, and activities while anticipating the many blessings and experiences that await us. Meals and refreshments will be served aloft.

Upon arrival in the romantic city of Venice, built upon 118 small islands connected by picturesque canals and bridges, we are met by our local representative and transferred to our hotel. Venice is one of the world's most unique and beautiful cities, rich in history, art, and culture. The remainder of the day is at leisure before dinner.

Following breakfast, we enjoy a guided walking tour of Venice Island beginning at the magnificent Basilica of St. Mark located in the famous St. Mark's Square. We also see the historic Doge's Palace, the renowned Bridge of Sighs, and the iconic Rialto Bridge spanning the Grand Canal. The remainder of the afternoon is free for personal exploration, shopping, or perhaps an optional gondola ride through Venice's enchanting waterways.

Today we depart Venice and travel through the breathtaking landscapes of Tuscany en route to Florence, the cradle of the Renaissance and one of Italy's most celebrated artistic and cultural centers. Upon arrival, we have time to explore this remarkable city, known for its magnificent architecture, historic churches, and world-famous masterpieces.

This morning we enjoy a guided tour of Florence featuring Piazza della Signoria, Neptune Fountain, the Basilica of Santa Croce, the Baptistry with its famous Gates of Paradise, and Giotto's Bell Tower. We visit the Accademia Gallery to admire Michelangelo's masterpiece, David, before continuing to Piazzale Michelangelo for spectacular panoramic views over Florence and the Arno Valley. Later we travel to the medieval city of Siena, home of St. Catherine of Siena, where we visit the Basilica of San Domenico and enjoy time in the historic center including the magnificent Piazza del Campo.

After breakfast, we journey south toward Rome, the Eternal City. Upon arrival, we visit the ancient Catacombs, burial place of many of the early Christians and martyrs of the Church. We then walk along portions of the historic Appian Way, one of the oldest and most important roads of the Roman Empire, rich in both Christian and Roman history.

Today we experience the spiritual heart of the Catholic Church with a guided tour of Vatican City including the Vatican Museums, Gallery, Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter's Basilica. We enjoy the unforgettable Scavi Tour beneath St. Peter's Basilica where the sacred excavations and believed tomb of St. Peter are located. Continue with a climb to the Cupola of St. Peter's Basilica for breathtaking panoramic views overlooking Rome and Vatican City. Later we visit the Trevi Fountain and the mighty Colosseum of Ancient Rome.

Today we celebrate the Feast of Saints Peter and Paul at St. Peter's Basilica with the Holy Father during one of the most important liturgical celebrations in Rome. During this special Mass, newly appointed Metropolitan Archbishops from around the world receive the sacred pallium as a symbol of their unity with the Pope and their pastoral mission in the Church. Experience the beauty, tradition, and universality of the Catholic faith gathered in the heart of the Vatican. Following lunch, the remainder of the day is free for prayer, relaxation, shopping, or independent exploration of Rome.

This morning we attend the Papal Audience with His Holiness Pope Leo XIV, a truly memorable spiritual experience. In the afternoon, we visit the major basilicas of Rome including St. Mary Major, St. John Lateran, and St. Paul Outside the Walls, each holding a special place in the history and life of the Catholic Church.

This morning we visit the famous Abbey of Montecassino, founded by St. Benedict in the 6th century and considered the birthplace of Western monasticism. Enjoy time for prayer and reflection while taking in the breathtaking views from this historic mountaintop monastery. We continue to nearby Subiaco to visit the Abbey of St. Benedict, where the saint lived in prayer and solitude before beginning his monastic mission. In the afternoon, we return to Rome for our Farewell Dinner.

All too soon our unforgettable pilgrimage comes to an end as we transfer to Rome Airport for our return flight home. We carry with us treasured memories, lasting friendships, and many spiritual blessings from our journey through Italy.