L’Aquila:
Tomb of Pope Celestine V & Shrine of St. John Paul II
L’Aquila : Tomb of Pope Celestine V & Shrine of St. John Paul II
Step into the sacred heart of one of Italy’s most spiritually significant towns. This walking tour through Bolsena offers a unique blend of faith, history, and beauty — from ancient Christian catacombs to the very altar where a Eucharistic miracle changed the course of Catholic devotion. Whether you’re on pilgrimage or simply exploring the stories that shaped this lakeside town, this tour will leave you inspired.
Tour Highlights
Visit the Basilica of Santa Maria di Collemaggio, home to the tomb of Pope Celestine V, a powerful symbol of humility, forgiveness, and spiritual renewal.
Learn about Pope Celestine V, the hermit pope who founded the Perdonanza Celestiniana, one of the world’s earliest Holy Year celebrations.
Experience the Shrine of Saint John Paul II, a modern place of prayer honoring one of the most influential popes of our time.
Walk through the historic heart of L’Aquila, shaped by medieval faith, earthquakes, and resilient Christian devotion.
Discover ancient churches and sacred sites that reflect centuries of pilgrimage, prayer, and restoration.
Admire panoramic views of the Apennine Mountains, surrounding the city with a serene and contemplative atmosphere.
Hear inspiring stories of faith, perseverance, and renewal that define L’Aquila’s spiritual identity.
Conclude your journey with a quiet moment of prayer and reflection, leaving with a deeper understanding of L’Aquila’s sacred heritage and enduring Catholic legacy.
More Information
Duration : 2 Hours
Language : 
English | 
French | 
Spanish | 
German | 
Italian | 
Portuguese | 
Polish
Tour Inclusions : Experienced tour guide, Entrance to Basilica of Santa Maria di Collemaggio, Small group experience
Tour Exclusions : Personal expenses, hotel pickup, Food and drinks, Transportation to/from L’Aquila, optional donations, Entrance fees to optional sites
Distance : Approximately 1.5 km
Accessibility : Not wheelchair accessible
Meeting Point : Please arrive 10 minutes early in front of the main entrance of the Basilica of Santa Maria di Collemaggio, L’Aquila. Your guide will meet you directly outside the main façade.
L’Aquila : Tomb of Pope Celestine V & Shrine of St. John Paul II
Step into the sacred heart of L’Aquila, a city where faith, resilience, and history come together in a deeply moving pilgrimage experience. This immersive walking tour invites you to explore one of central Italy’s most important spiritual destinations, closely linked to the legacy of Pope Celestine V and Saint John Paul II.
Your journey begins at the Basilica of Santa Maria di Collemaggio, the crowning jewel of L’Aquila and the final resting place of Pope Celestine V, the humble hermit pope known for his profound spirituality and devotion. Here, you will learn about his extraordinary life, his papacy, and the origins of the Perdonanza Celestiniana, one of the oldest Jubilee traditions in the Catholic Church.
Continue to sites closely associated with Saint John Paul II, who held a deep devotion to Celestine V and made historic visits to L’Aquila. Discover how his spiritual legacy lives on in the city through prayer spaces and memorials that honor his enduring message of hope, forgiveness, and faith.
As you stroll through the historic streets of L’Aquila, admire its medieval architecture, ancient churches, and vibrant squares—each telling a story of faith preserved through centuries of trials and renewal. The city’s sacred landmarks offer moments of reflection amid stunning views of the surrounding Apennine Mountains.
Along the way, hear stories of pilgrimage, perseverance, and devotion that have shaped L’Aquila’s identity as a center of Christian faith. Learn how this resilient city continues to inspire pilgrims and visitors from around the world.
Your tour concludes at the Basilica of Santa Maria di Collemaggio, offering a peaceful moment for prayer and contemplation at the tomb of Pope Celestine V. Leave with a deeper understanding of L’Aquila’s spiritual heritage and the lasting influence of two remarkable figures in the history of the Catholic Church.
L’Aquila: Tomb of Pope Celestine V & Shrine of St. John Paul II
Nestled in the Apennine Mountains of central Italy, L’Aquila is a city of deep spiritual heritage, resilience, and sacred history. Founded in the 13th century, it has long been a place of pilgrimage, devotion, and renewal. At its heart lies the Basilica of Santa Maria di Collemaggio, home to the Tomb of Pope Celestine V, one of the most revered holy sites in the Abruzzo region. Nearby, pilgrims also visit the Shrine dedicated to St. John Paul II, honoring the modern saint’s profound connection to peace, forgiveness, and faith.
Pope Celestine V and the Basilica of Collemaggio
Pope Celestine V, a humble hermit elected pope in 1294, is remembered for his holiness, simplicity, and rare act of papal resignation. He is buried in the Basilica of Santa Maria di Collemaggio, a masterpiece of medieval architecture and a powerful place of prayer. The basilica is also the birthplace of the Perdonanza Celestiniana, the first Holy Year in Christian history, granting plenary indulgence to pilgrims—an extraordinary legacy that continues annually.
Shrine of St. John Paul II
The Shrine of St. John Paul II in L’Aquila commemorates the beloved pope’s spiritual presence in the city, especially remembered for his visit and his gesture of laying his pallium on Celestine V’s tomb. This act is seen as a prophetic symbol of humility and service, deeply moving pilgrims from around the world.
A Living Pilgrimage Tradition
L’Aquila stands as a symbol of faith tested and renewed, especially after the devastating earthquake of 2009. Today, its restored churches, sacred monuments, and vibrant pilgrim traditions invite visitors to reflect on forgiveness, humility, and hope. Walking through L’Aquila is not just a journey through history, but a spiritual encounter with two popes whose lives continue to inspire the universal Church.
This pilgrimage to L’Aquila: Tomb of Pope Celestine V & Shrine of St. John Paul II offers a profound experience of faith, history, and spiritual renewal in one of Italy’s most meaningful sacred cities.
- Dress Code: Dress with an appropriate dress code for religious sites
- Walking & Terrain: The tour involves walking approximately 1.2–1.5 km over cobblestone streets, some gentle slopes, and uneven surfaces. Comfortable walking shoes are essential.
- Weather & Clothing: Bolsena’s weather can vary—dress in layers and bring a hat, sunscreen, and water, especially in warmer months.
- Respectful Conduct: Many stops include sacred sites like the Basilica, catacombs, and chapels. Please maintain respectful silence and follow the guide’s instructions.
- Photography: Photos are welcome except where restricted inside sacred areas. Please respect local customs and signage.
- Accessibility: If you have mobility concerns, please inform us before booking so we can assist or recommend alternatives.
- Language: The tour is conducted in the selected at the reservation stage. Private or multilingual guide options are available upon request.
- Health & Safety: Please follow any current health protocols. Inform your guide of allergies or medical needs.
- Local Etiquette: Bolsena is a living community with religious traditions—please be courteous to locals and worshippers.
- Kids: Kids must be accompanied by an adult.
- Minimum Participants: The tour requires a minimum number of participants to operate. If this requirement is not met, the tour may be rescheduled, cancelled, or rearranged as a private tour, with any additional costs to be agreed upon.
- Weather Conditions: Our tours operate in all weather conditions; however, in the event of adverse or unsafe weather, the tour may be cancelled, rescheduled, or modified for safety reasons. In such cases, suitable alternative arrangements or remedies will be considered depending on the circumstances.
Personal Items: Carry light; a small bag or backpack for water, camera, and essentials is recommended.
- Full Refund: The tour can be canceled up to 24 hours in advance of the experience start time for a full refund
- Time Zone: Local time is applied in the event of cancellation.
- Changes: Any changes to be made before 24 hours to the departure
- No Refund: Any changes or cancellations made within 24 hours of the tour start time will not be eligible for a refund.
- Group Size: The tour requires a minimum number of participants to operate. If this requirement is not met, the tour may be rescheduled, cancelled, or rearranged as a private tour, with any additional costs to be agreed upon. A full refund will be provided if the tour is cancelled due to the minimum number of participants.
- Tour Guide Availability & Language Limitations: We specialize in tours to uncommon and unique religious destinations that are often unavailable on standard tours. Due to limited local guide availability, the requested language may not always be available. In such cases, we will offer alternative options before rescheduling or cancelling the tour. If no alternatives are feasible, the tour may be rescheduled or cancelled, with a full refund provided.
- Pricing Considerations: We strive to offer competitive pricing, but in some cases, limited supplier availability may affect costs.
- Our Mission: As a Catholic tour operator, our primary goal is to provide a meaningful spiritual experience. We focus on destinations that are rarely included in standard tours, ensuring your journey is both unique and spiritually enriching.
Plan Your Visit to L’Aquila
Discover the easiest ways to reach, stay, and enjoy L’Aquila — a historic mountain city in the Abruzzo region, renowned for its deep spiritual heritage, medieval architecture, and breathtaking Apennine landscapes.
Travel times are approximate and may vary with schedules and traffic.
Affiliate Disclosure
Some of the links in this section are affiliate links. This means we may earn a small commission if you use them to make a purchase or booking—at no extra cost to you. We only recommend services and products we genuinely trust. For more details, please see our Affiliate Policy and the UK Advertising Standards Authority guidance on affiliate marketing.
Airport Meet & Assist Services
For a smooth and stress-free arrival in Italy, take advantage of Airport Meet & Assist services available at major airports, including Rome Fiumicino, Rome Ciampino, and Pescara Airport.
A dedicated assistant will welcome you and help with luggage, check-in, and security procedures.
Please note: this service is provided only within the airport. Airport Meet & Assist is ideal for first-time visitors to Italy, pilgrims, seniors, or travellers seeking a comfortable start or end to their journey.
By Air
Rome Fiumicino (FCO) – ~115 km
Rome Ciampino (CIA) – ~105 km
Pescara Airport (PSR) – ~110 km
Approx. 1.5–2 hours by car or taxi.
From Rome airports, continue by rental car, train + bus, or private transfer to L’Aquila.
Find the Best Flights – Book your flights with Expedia
By Train
earest Station: L’Aquila
From Rome Termini: ~2–2.5 hours (via Terni or Sulmona, depending on route)
The train journey offers scenic views of central Italy and the Apennine Mountains.
Find the Best Trains – Book your Trains with Omio
By Car
Driving is one of the most flexible ways to reach L’Aquila.
From Rome: ~115 km (~1.5–2 hours) via A24 motorway
Well-maintained roads with panoramic mountain views
Parking is available near the historic center, Basilica of Collemaggio, and major pilgrimage sites.
Find the Best Rent a Car – Rent your car with Centauto
By Bus
Direct and regional buses connect Rome (Tiburtina) with L’Aquila.
Travel time: ~1.5–2.5 hours
Operators include regional and long-distance services
Schedules may vary — always check in advance.
Find the Best Buses – Book your Buses with Omio
By Taxi / Private Transfer
Enjoy a direct and comfortable journey from Rome or Pescara airports.
Ideal for pilgrims, families, or travellers with luggage.
Private Transfers – Book your private transfer with Welcome Pickups
On Foot / Locally
L’Aquila’s historic center is compact and walkable.
Major sites such as the Basilica of Santa Maria di Collemaggio (Tomb of Pope Celestine V), historic churches, and museums are easily reached on foot or by local taxi.
Where to Stay in L’Aquila
Choose accommodation near the Basilica of Collemaggio, the historic center, or surrounding hills for a peaceful stay.
Options include boutique hotels, guesthouses, monasteries, and family-run B&Bs.
Hotels & B&Bs| 
Unique Local Stays
Find the Best Hotels – Book your Hotels with Expedia or Agoda
Experiences & Activities
Enhance your pilgrimage with spiritual and cultural experiences:
Visit the Tomb of Pope Celestine V
Pray at sites associated with St. John Paul II
Explore medieval churches and Abruzzo traditions
Take day trips to Gran Sasso National Park
Book Tours & Activities
Find the Best Tours & Activities
Find tours & day trips on GetYourGuide
Explore cultural & religious tours on Viator
Travel Essentials
Be prepared for walking, mountain weather, and sacred visits.
Find the Best Travel Essentials
Find your travel accessories on Amazon
Find your Travel Insurance
Religious & Devotional Items
If you cannot visit L’Aquila in person, bring its spiritual heritage into your home.
Discover authentic Catholic devotional items inspired by Pope Celestine V, St. John Paul II, and Italy’s sacred traditions.
Find the Best Religious & Devotional Items
Find your Religious & Devotional Items on Amazon
Note:
All times, prices, and details are approximate and may vary due to schedules, seasons, or provider updates. Always verify current travel information before booking.
Travel Tip
For the smoothest journey, combine train or flight to Rome with a private transfer or rental car to L’Aquila — a perfect balance of comfort, scenery, and flexibility for pilgrims.
Affiliate Disclosure
Some of the links in this section are affiliate links. This means we may earn a small commission if you use them to make a purchase or booking—at no extra cost to you. We only recommend services and products we genuinely trust. For more details, please see our Affiliate Policy and the UK Advertising Standards Authority guidance on affiliate marketing.
Discover the places that matter most to you, even if you’re staying only a short time.
We create fully personalised pilgrimage routes and custom tours designed around your faith, interests and schedule. Whether you want to visit a sacred shrine, a historic basilica, a monastery on a hilltop, or a lesser-known religious site that few travellers reach, we’ll make it possible.
To help you save time, we can arrange private pickup from the airports, ports, Rail Stations or directly from your accommodation. Our team ensures you have direct, stress-free access to the religious destinations you may not have another chance to visit again.
Every itinerary is crafted with care: Private transfers to and from holy sites, Flexible schedules for prayer, reflection, and guided visits, Local experts to share history, spirituality, and traditions, Tailor-made tours for individuals, couples, families, or parish groups
If there’s a special tour or pilgrimage tied to a destination close to your heart, let us know — we’ll create a meaningful journey crafted just for you. Contact us to get a quotation for your personalised tour request.
You may also be interested in
- List also other tours near the tour location ( Orvieto, Rome…etc )
Work With Us as a Tour Guide in L’Aquila
We’re looking for licensed tour guides in L’Aquila to collaborate with us in sharing the city’s profound faith, history, and cultural heritage.
If you guide visitors through the Basilica of Santa Maria di Collemaggio (Tomb of Pope Celestine V), sites connected to St. John Paul II, L’Aquila’s historic churches, or the surrounding Abruzzo pilgrimage routes, we’d love to hear from you.
Contact us to join our growing network of trusted pilgrimage and cultural tour guides in Italy.
Partner with Us
We’re always looking to collaborate with travel agencies, pilgrimage organizers, and Catholic organizations to bring faith-based tours to more pilgrims. Partner with us to offer authentic Catholic pilgrimage experiences, expand your offerings, and deliver unforgettable journeys to sacred sites.