Italy Pilgrimage with 3 Day Ireland Extension

Today we drive towards Rome where St. Paul lived for two years. On the way, we stop at the Abbey of Montecassino. Founded nearly 1500 years ago by St. Benedict of Nursia, the Abbey has endured as a place of Catholic spirituality and worship despite centuries of political upheaval and warfare within Italy. After lunch, we continue our journey to Rome. Upon arrival, we will drive along the Appian Way “Regina Viarum” and see the Church of Quo Vadis, located where Christ appeared to Peter, and the Apostle asked “Domine, quo vadis?” (Where are you going, Lord?) The Lord replied, “I am going to Rome to be crucified for the second time.” Peter understood the message and returned to face his martyrdom. We see the Inn where St. Paul stopped for rest before arriving at the seat of the former Roman Empire. We visit the Catacombs of St. Sebastian where the early Christians hid, prayed and buried their dead and the remnants of the original basilica dedicated to Peter and Paul. We will then continue to the Abbey of the Three Fountains, the place of Paul’s martyrdom, where tradition has it that three different springs gushed out at each spot touched when Paul’s head fell down. Our tour ends at Basilica of St. Paul Outside the Wall, a Benedictine Abbey who shares its origins with the adjoining basilica. Visit the Basilica where the bones of Paul have recently been found and celebrate Mass. Continue to hotel for dinner and overnight.