Programs 2021 GTSWORLD by Great Travel Service - GTS World
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GTSWORLD by Great Travel Service
PILGRIMAGES
Programs 2021
PILGRIMAGES 2021
ABOUT US
Our goal is to promote pilgrimage destinations in Italy and other
European countries for pilgrims from all over the world. Our
main office is in Rome and we have 30 years of experience.
Our services include:
• Organization of choral concerts
• Private Masses Reserved in major Basilicas/Churches
• Participation on the special events held by the Vatican, including
canonization
• Reserve audience for Papal hearings.
We offer tailor-made packages and special requests for both
groups and Individuals, guaranteeing the highest quality and
competitive prices.
Our team is made up of qualified and talented travel experts
with extensive travel experience and multi-language skills. We
provide 24-hour assistance a day to ensure that our services meet
the needs of our customers.
We look forward to planning and developing special travel
programs for your groups and individual customers by 2021.
Daniele Campoli
Why a pilgrimage?
A pilgrimage can be a life-changing transformative experience.
Being a pilgrim means starting an adventure in search of God; it
means asking questions and seeking their faith.
A pilgrim is not only a tourist, but an individual looking for an
experience that can change perspectives and expectations.
One of the most important reasons for taking pilgrimage tours
and seeing places of spiritual importance is to meet other holy
people who follow a spiritual path and see how they live.
We do our best to make sure this is all pilgrims have to think
about as they travel with us.
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PILGRIMAGES 2021
GENERAL INDEX
PILGRIMAGES 2021
PILGRIMAGE FROM ROME TO ASSISI•7 days 5 nights 4
ROME, ASSISI AND FLORENCE • 9 days 7 nights 5
DEVOTE ITALY • 9 days 7 nights 6
ROME AND MEDJUGORJE • 10 days 8 nights 7
SPAIN SANCTUARIES • 9 days 7 nights 8
CAMINO DE SANTIAGO • 11 days 9 nights 9
FRANCE SANCTUARIES • 10 days 8 nights 10
FATIMA, SPAIN AND LOURDES • 9 days 7 nights 11
PILGRIMAGE TO MEDJUGORJE • 9 days 7 nights . 12
HOLY LAND • 9 days 7 nights 13
PILGRIMAGE TO POLAND • 8 days 6 nights 14
EUROPEAN PILGRIMAGE • 12 days 10 nights 16
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PILGRIMAGES 2021
PILGRIMAGE
FROM ROME TO ASSISI Assisi
Rome
Day 1º DEPARTURE In the afternoon our walking tour will start with Day 6º ROME: ANCIENT ROME, ST,
Departure to Rome. the Trevi Fountain, where we will launch the PETER IN CHAINS CATHEDRAL AND THE
traditional three coins. We will continue with the BASILICA OF ST PAUL OUTSIDE THE
Day 2º ARRIVAL TO ROME Plaza de Trinité dei Monti at the top of the Spanish WALLS
Arrival in Rome and meet our accompanying guide Steps, from where we can admire such a romantic Breakfast at the hotel. In the morning we will enjoy
who will be with us throughout the tour. We will panoramic view of the city of Rome, then we will a tour of some places in ancient Rome, including
enjoy a panoramic tour of the city and then arrive cross the city towards the Pantheon and end up in the Forum and the Colosseum. Its real name is
at the hotel. Dinner and hotel accommodation. (D) Piazza Navona. We will have free time to explore Flavius Amphitheatre, after the emperor who
and shop on our own. Dinner and accommodation built it in the first century. Colosseum refers to
Day 3º AM: PAPAL AUDIENCE / PM: ST at the hotel. (B, D) the “colossal” statue of Nero that was once at the
PETERS entrance. We will walk through the Forum and the
Breakfast at the hotel. This morning we will head Day 5º ROME: EXCURSION TO ASSISI interior of the Colosseum.
to Vatican City to attend the general audience of Today we will visit this “quiet medieval city, The last stop of our tour will be the Church of St.
Pope Francis (subject to confirmation according tinged with the mystical spirit of one of the most Pietro in Vincoli, where we will admire the Moses
to the established program of the Holy Father). fascinating characters in history”. The city of of Michelangelo. In the afternoon we will visit the
After our visit we will have time to have lunch on Assisi is located on the side of Mount Subasio, Basilica of St. Paul Outside the Walls, home to
our own and shop at religious goods stores in the resting majestically on the Umbrian plain. This the tomb of the Apostle St. Paul, also known as
Vatican area. In the afternoon, our local guide will city was home to Saints Francis and Clara. We the Apostle of the Pagans. Here we will celebrate
show us St. Peter’s Basilica. We will have free will find our local guide for a visit to the Basilica of Mass (if the group accompanies a priest). Our
time to visit the Vatican Museums if you wish. St. Francis, where we will celebrate a mass at the tour concludes with the visit of the Catacombs
Dinner and hotel accommodation. (B, D) tomb of San Francis (if the group is accompanied of San Calixto. Dinner and accommodation at the
by a priest). hotel. (B, D)
Day 4º ROME: THE BASILICAS AND Later we will enjoy a walking tour of the city,
CLASSIC TOUR OF ROME including the church of San Rufino (with the Day 7º ROME
Breakfast at the hotel. We begin the day with the baptismal font of San Francis), and the Basilica In the morning, transfer to Rome airport to board
visit of the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, the of Saint Clara (where his uncorrupted body rests your flight. (B)
largest church in Rome dedicated to the Virgin in peace). In the afternoon we will meet in the
Mary. We continue with the Basilica of St John Plaza next to the Church of Santa Clara to take the
lutheran. It was here that Saint Francis persuaded transfer that will take us to the Eremo delle Carceri NOTE:
Pope Innocent III to give him permission to (Convent), about 4 km away from Assisi. This is Although no changes are foreseen, there may be
initiate the Franciscan Order. The night before, where St. Francis retreated to pray. Amid the lush times when certain alterations are necessary for
the Pope had seen a man in a dream, which held green jungle and songbirds, you receive a deep the proper development of the itinerary, such as
the unstable building of St. John Lateran. The sense of the spirit of St. Francis. Here we will changes in flight schedules or other reasons. All
next day, when Francis appeared before Pope take some time to devote ourselves to our private masses are subject to the final programming of
Innocent, His Holiness recognized the face of the reflections. Then we head to Rome for dinner and the Churches.
dream and consented to Francis’ request. hotel accommodation. (B, D).
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PILGRIMAGES 2021
Florence ROME, ASSISI
Assisi
AND FLORENCE
Rome
Day 1º DEPARTURE famous for its golden bronze doors, particularly EXCURSION TO POMPEII
Departure to Rome. Lorenzo Ghiberti’s Parisian Sunsets. We will have Breakfast at the hotel. We have the whole day off
free time to make a stop at Ponte Vecchio (Old today. Those who want can stay in Rome to explore
Day 2º ROME / ASSISI Bridge) the famous 14th century bridge, full of the city on their own, or go shopping. Others can
Arrival in Rome and meet our accompanying guide shops selling jewllery. Later, we will board our buy an optional tour to visit Naples and Pompeii.
who will be with us throughout the tour. We will bus to continue our journey to Rome, where we Your accompanying guide will be at your disposal
board our bus that will take us to Assisi, “a quiet will have dinner and stay at our hotel. (B, D) to give you additional information and make the
medieval city, tinged with the mystical spirit of reservation. Free dinner. Accommodation. (B,D)
one of the most fascinating characters in history”. Day 5º ROME: PAPAL AUDIENCE AND
We will celebrate the Opening Mass of our trip in WALKING TOUR OF ROME Day 8º ROME: ANCIENT ROME
a local Church. Dinner and accommodation at the Breakfast at the hotel. In the morning we will enjoy
Breakfast at the hotel. In the morning, transfer to
hotel. (B, D) a tour of some of the places of Ancient Rome,
Vatican City for the Papal Audience with the Holy
including the Forum and the Colosseum. Its real
Father (subject to Vatican programming). In the
Day 3º ASSISI – VISIT OF ASSISI name is Flavius Amphitheatre, after the emperor
afternoon, we will enjoy a walking tour, starting
Breakfast at the hotel. We will begin with the who built it in the 1st of the Colosseum refers to
at the Trevi Fountain, where we will launch the
opening Mass of our pilgrimage in the Tomb the “colossal” statue of Nero that was once at the
traditional three coins. We will continue with
of St Francis. After Mass we will enjoy a visit entrance. Originally in its place was a swimming
the Plaza de Trinité dei Monti at the top of the
to the Basilica of St Francis, guided by one of pool, around which was built the famous Golden
Spanish Steps, from where we can admire such
the Franciscan monks. We will continue our House of Emperor Nero. The construction was
a romantic panoramic view of the city of Rome,
walking tour with the main places related to San completed with the help of the Jewish slaves
then we will cross the city towards the Pantheon
Francisco such as the New Church, built on the brought here in 70 A.D. The Colosseum served
and end up in Piazza Navona, a popular place for
foundations of Francis’ family home, the Church as the center of violent sports, and traditionally,
the reunion between Rome’s neighbours. We will
of St. Rufino, which contains the baptismal font as a place of sacrifice for many Christians. We’ll
finish our tour with the visit of the Church of Santa see the Forum from the outside, and we’ll enter
of the Saint, and the church of St. Clare. In the
Maria Sopra Minerva to close the Liturgy of our the Colosseum. Later, we will continue our path to
afternoon we will visit the Basilica of St. Mary of
pilgrimage. Tonight we’re having dinner at a local the Catacombs of St. Calixto home to many tombs
Angels, which contains the Porziuncola, built by
restaurant. Accommodation. (B, D) of the Popes of yesteryear. After our tour we will
St. Francis and the Mother Church of the Order of
the Franciscans. In the vicinity of this place was visit the nearby Basilica of St. Paul Outside the
Day 6º ROME: VATICAN MUSEUMS, ST Walls, home to the Tomb of the Apostle St. Paul,
where Francis died. Tonight dinner will be served
PETER’S BASILICA & FREE TIME affectionately known as the Apostle of the Pagans.
at a local restaurant in Assisi. (B, D)
Breakfast at the hotel. In the morning we will Here we will celebrate the closing Mass of our
Day 4º ASSISI / FLORENCE / ROME visit the Vatican Museums to see the works of trip. Tonight we’ll all meet at our farewell dinner
Breakfast at the hotel. In the morning, we will Michelangelo, including the Last Judgment and at a local restaurant. (B, D)
depart from Assisi to Florence – the City of the the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel. After our visit
Medici family and Machiavelli. We will begin our to the museums we will have free time to have Day 9º ROME
day with the visit of the Academy Gallery. This lunch on our own. In the afternoon, we will enjoy Transfer to Rome Airport to board our flight back
gallery houses the works of Florentine artists of a guided tour of St. Peter’s Basilica, where we home, with our suitcases full of memories! (B)
the thirteenth and sixteenth centuries, but its main will also see the famous statue of Michelangelo’s
attraction is the David of Michelangelo, carved Virgin Mary holding her crucified son, known
into a block of marble when the artist was only as La Pieta. Then we will have at our disposal NOTE:
29 years old. After the visit to the gallery, we will free time to visit the excellent shops of the area
Although no changes are foreseen, there may be
proceed to visit the Duomo, with its pink, white and with religious items, or climb on our own to
times when certain alterations are necessary to for
green marble facade, and the famous Brunelleschi the dome of St. Peter’s Basilica, where you can
the proper development of the itinerary, such as
dome. It is the fourth largest cathedral in the world. contemplate a wonderful view of the city. Dinner
changes in flight schedules or other reasons. All
Next to the Duomo is the Baptistery of St. John. and accommodation at the hotel. (B, D)
masses are subject to the final programming of
One of the oldest buildings in Florence dedicated the Churches.
to John the Baptist. The octagonal building is Day 7º ROME: FREE FULL DAY, OPTIONAL
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PILGRIMAGES 2021
DEVOTE ITALY Loreto
Assisi
Cascia Lanciano
Monte S. Angelo
Rome S. G. Rotondo
Pietrelcina
Day 1º DEPARTURE Pietrelcina located in the province of Benevento became Flesh and dwelt among us”. Arrival in
Departure to Rome. in Campania. Birthplace of Saint Pio of Pietrelcina Assisi, the city of San Francisco, we will tour the
(Padre Pio) in 1887. We will continue to San Church of St. Clare, the New Church, where you
Day 2º ROME Giovanni Rotondo. Accommodation. will find the remains of the house of St. Francis
Arrival at the airport meet and greet. Transfer to and the city square. We will continue with the visit
the Hotel. Afternoon free to tour the city and do Day 6º S. GIOVANNI ROTONDO – MONTE to the Gothic Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi, the
some shopping. Accommodation. SANT’ANGELO - S. GIOVANNI ROTONDO upper basilica as well as the frescoes of about 130
Breakfast. Visit to the city, one of the symbols meters. In a small crypt, under the main altar, are
Day 3º ROME of Christianity, charity and love of neighbor. We the remains of the Holy One. Accommodation.
Buffet breakfast at the hotel. Today we will take will visit the Shrine of Father Pio, the spiritual
heir of St. Francis of Assisi. Father Pio was the Day 8º ASSISI - CASCIA - ROME(250 kms)
a panoramic tour of the city where we will enjoy
its streets and avenues, passing through the most first priest to carry the marks of the crucifixion Breakfast. towards Cascia, a religious complex
important places, Venice Square, Via Venetto, (The Stigmas) on his body. We will visit the old in which Saint Rita is venerated where the saint
the Roman Forums, The Colosseum, Arch of monastery with the room where Father Pio lived, lived for more than forty years her experience of
Constantine, the Castle of St. Angelo, etc. We will the ancient Church of “Santa Maria de la Gracia”. monastic life, until her death. In the monastery
continue with the visit of the Vatican Museums, In the afternoon we will visit Monte Sant Angelo, you can see some basic places of the life of
where we will be surprised by the famous Sistine with the mystical Sanctuary of San Miguel Santa Rita, the courtyard with a well, the ancient
Chapel and St. Peter’s Basilica. Lunch included. Archangel. His story relates to the appearance of choir, the oratory where Santa Rita received the
Afternoon free at leisure, where we recommend the Archangel St. Michael in the Grotto, on May stigmas, cells, the saint’s bedroom and the rose
you to visit optionally and in detail the Roman 8, 490 and the successive apparitions (492 and garden, recreated to remember the miracle of the
Colosseum and its Forums. Accommodation. 493). We will continue with the beautiful Basilica, rose and the hig . Arrival in Rome the Eternal City.
the Franciscan Way, the Bell Tower, etc. Accommodation.
Day 4º ROME Return to San Giovanni Rotondo. Accommodation.
Day 9º ROME
Buffet breakfast at the hotel. Free day to continue
touring this fascinating city. Traditionally on Day 7º SAN GIOVANNI ROTONDO - Breakfast. Free time until the time of your transfer
Sunday, at noon, the Pope prays the angelus in LANCIANO - LORETO - ASSISI (450 kms) to the airport to take your flight back.
St. Peter’s Square and imports the blessing to Breakfast. Departure to Lanciano small medieval
the attendees, we recommend that, in case of town, where for more than 12 centuries is the first
performance, they attend St. Peter’s Square on NOTE: Although no changes are foreseen,
and greatest of the Eucharistic miracles that we
their own in their free time. Accommodation. there may be times when certain alterations are
can know when visiting the Church of ST Francis.
necessary to for the proper development of the
Continue to Loreto, where the Holy House is
Day 5º ROME - PIETRELCINA – SAN itinerary, such as changes in flight schedules or
located in the center of the Great Basilica and
GIOVANNI ROTONDO (430 kms) other reasons. All masses are subject to the final
which has become one of the great centers of
programming of the Churches.
Breakfast buffet. Departure to San Giovanni pilgrimage. It is the same house of Nazareth that
Rotondo, located in the Puglia region. During visited the Archangel Gabriel in the Annunciation
the tour we will stop at the beautiful village of to the Blessed Virgin Mary, that is where the “Verb
6
PILGRIMAGES 2021
ROME AND MEDJUGORJE
Medjugorie
Rome
Day 1º DEPARTURE admire the great works of Michaelangelo such as all over the world. During our stay we will visit
Departure to Rome. the statue of the Virgin Mary holding the crucifix Mount Podbrdo (Hill of Apparitions) and Mount
of her son. Also known as la Pieta. After our visit Krizevac (Mountain of the Cross). Our local guide
Day 2º ROME we will have free time to go shopping in the many will introduce us to the visionaries to talk and pray
Arrival in Rome, meet and greet. Transfer to shops of religious items that are in the area. In the with them. A special point will be the excursion to
your hotel. We will enjoy a panoramic tour of afternoon, we will enjoy free time to go shopping, the Franciscan Monastery to Siroki Brijeg to meet
the city from the airport to the hotel. Dinner and or take a walk through the streets of Rome to and study Father Jozo Zovko (according to his
accommodation at the hotel. (B) experience a unique knowledge. Tonight dinner availability) and receive his blessing. Dinner will
will be served in a local restaurant with music and be served daily. (B, D)
Day 3º ROME: PAPAL AUDIENCE & wine included. Accommodation. (B, D)
BASILICA OF SANTA MARIA MAGGIORE, Day 9º MEDJUGORJE / FLIGHT TO ROME
BASILICA OF ST. JOHN Day 5º ROME: FREE TIME / DEPARTURE Today we will leave Medjugorje for Split Airport
In the morning, transfer to Vatican City for the TO MEDJUGORJE where we will board our flight to Rome. We
Papal Audience with the Holy Father (subject In the morning, we will pack and depart on our bus will arrive in Rome in the afternoon and we will
to Vatican programming). In the afternoon, visit to enjoy a visit to some places in Ancient Rome, transfer to our hotel near the airport. Dinner and
the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, the largest including the Roman Forum and the Colosseum. accommodation. (B, D)
church in Rome dedicated to the Virgin Mary. Its real name is Flavius Amphitheatre, after the
Nearby, we visit the Church of St. Alfonso, where emperor who built it in the first century. The Day 10º ROME
we can see the original symbol of Our Lady of Colosseum refers to the “colossal” statue of Nero Transfer to Rome Fiumicino Airport to board our
Perpetual Relief. Our next visit will be the Basilica that was once at the entrance. We’ll stop by the flight back home. (B)
of St. John Lutheran where we will celebrate our Forum and enter the Colosseum. We will make
Mass. It was here that Saint Francis persuaded a stop at St. Peter’s Church in chains, to see the
Pope Inocenzio III to give him permission to famous statue of the Moses of Michelangelo. In NOTE: Although no changes are foreseen,
initiate the Franciscan Order. The night before, the afternoon we will transfer to Rome airport there may be times when certain alterations are
the Pope had seen a man in a dream, which held to board our flight to Split, Croatia. On arrival, necessary for the proper development of the
the unstable building of St. John Lateran. The our accompanying guide will be waiting for us, itinerary, such as changes in flight schedules or
next day, when Francis appeared before Pope also the bus. We will enjoy a panoramic view other reasons. All masses are subject to the final
Innocent, His Holiness recognized the face of the of the wonderful Adriatic Coast on our way to programming of the Churches.
dream and consented to Francis’ request. Dinner Medjugorje. Arrival at our accommodation and
and accommodation at the hotel. (B, D) dinner. (B, D)
Day 4º ROME: ST. PETER’S BASILICA & Day 6º - 8º MEDJUGORJE
ANCIENT ROME Every morning, after breakfast we will attend the
In the morning we will start with the Mass at Holy Mass in Spanish (subject to availability)
St. Peter’s Basilica, after which we will take the at 10:00 am. In the afternoon we will join the
guided tour of it with our local guide. Here we can prayer of the Rosary with the other pilgrims from
7
PILGRIMAGES 2021
SPAIN SANCTUARIES Santiago de Compostela
Astorga
Zaragoza Montserrat
Madrid Barcelona
Day 1º DEPARTURE be revered there for centuries. Accommodation. of 1,300 meters. While in O Cebreiro, you will
Departure to Barcelona. have the opportunity to see the iconic palloza-
Day 5º MONTSERRAT - ZARAGOZA - style houses and the site of a Eucharistic Miracle
Day 2º ARRIVEL TO BARCELONA MADRID that occurred in the year 1300. At night, you will
This morning, after breakfast, your group will go to Santiago de Compostela. Accommodation.
Upon arrival in Barcelona, transfer to your hotel.
Free time. Accommodation. depart for Zaragoza. While in Zaragoza, you will
have the opportunity to visit the magnificent Day 8º SANTIAGO DE COMPOSTELA
Day 3º BARCELONA Basilica del Pilar that was built on the site where This morning, you will walk a few kilometers
Our Lady appeared to Santiago. While inside the from El Camino, dive into the fragrant eucalyptus
This morning, your day will start with breakfast
Basilica, you will see the pillar that was carried forests and experience the stunning scenery. Later
and a sightseeing tour of Barcelona! We visited
by the angels and from above appeared Our this morning, you will attend the International
the Plaza de España, Las Ramblas and Plaza de Lady. After your visit to the Basilica del Pilar, Mass of Pilgrims in the Cathedral of Santiago.
Catalunya. We continue to visit the Gothic quarter, you will visit the Cathedral of La Seo (Cathedral After Mass and there will be free time for lunch
and the Eixample district to visit Antoni Gaudí’s of Zaragoza). Tonight, his group will continue to and visit the Cathedral of Santiago. Formed
impressive and unfinished Roman Catholic Madrid. Accommodation. by Galician granite, this cathedral is one of
Basilica, La Sagrada Familia. Accommodation. the best architectural examples in Europe, as
Day 6º MADRID it encompasses the Romanesque, Gothic and
Day 4º BARCELONA - MANRESA - Baroque styles. In addition, the Cathedral contains
After breakfast, we will enjoy a tour of Madrid that
MONTSERRAT numerous and valuable pieces of art that really
includes the Royal Palace and the Plaza Mayor.
This morning, we will travel to Manresa with a We continue to visit Puerta de Alcalá, Retiro Park, captivate the view. Upon entering the Cathedral,
visit to the Sanctuary of San Ignacio de Loyola Plaza de Colón, Plaza de la Cibeles, Gran Vía and tradition will guide you, as you will embrace the
and the Santa Cueva where San Ignacio lived. We Plaza del Callao. We suggest optionally visiting dazzling statue of Santiago. After this intimate
continue to Montserrat, home of the miraculous the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium. Accommodation. embrace, you will descend to the crypt where the
Black Virgin. We visited the Sanctuary of Our relics of the Pilgrim Slam of Pilgrims are kept.
Lady of Montserrat, located on a steep hillside. Day 7º MADRID - ASTORGA - O CEBREIRO After that, you will enjoy a sightseeing tour of
According to Catholic tradition, St. Luke carved - SANTIAGO DE COMPOSTELA the city. Some stops on your tour include Plaza
the statue of the Black Virgin around 50 A.D. and Obradoiro, Palacio Fonseca, Palacio Gemirez,
Today you will depart from Madrid and head
brought it to Spain. In 880 A.D., the pastors and Franco Street and much more. Accommodation.
towards the city of Santiago de Compostela.
the bishop of Manresa were lured into a grotto While you are en route, you will make a stop in
by a bright light and heavenly music. Upon Day 9º SANTIAGO DE COMPOSTELA
Astorga, with a visit to the Episcopal Palace built
discovering the statue of the Black Virgin in the by Antonio Gaudí, which houses the Camino Transfer to Santiago airport for your flight back
grotto, the bishop of Manresa suggested that Museum. Later this afternoon, you will enter home.
he move to Manresa. However, the statue was Galicia, through the city, Lugo. Your first stop
too heavy for it not to be lifted. As a result, the will be in O Cebreiro, the first village in the Lugo
Virgin remained in Montserrat and continued to region and located in the mountains at an altitude
8
PILGRIMAGES 2021
Santiago de Compostela
Foncebadon CAMINO DE SANTIAGO
Madrid
Day 1º DEPARTURE River. As a result of the creation of the dam, many this village, you will notice joy etched on the
Departure to Madrid. of the old buildings were moved, brick by brick. faces of the pilgrims. Although they have traveled
Among these buildings is the Church of St. John a great distance, they are not tired. With God
Day 2º ARRIVAL TO MADRID of Jerusalem. In medieval times, this church and Santiago guiding their paths, excitement
Upon arrival in Madrid, transfer to your hotel. In was strategically established along the route and anticipation continue through their arrival in
the afternoon walk to the Almudena Cathedral. of El Camino to protect the tomb of Santiago. Santiago.
We will continue our walking tour of Madrid to Accommodation in Portomarin.
include the exterior of the Royal Palace. Stroll Day 9º ARCA DE O PINO - MONTE DEL
through the Plaza Mayor and Puerta del Sol and Day 5º PORTOMARIN - PALAS DE REI GOZO - SANTIAGO DE COMPOSTELA
stop at the Church of Santiago. Back to your hotel. This morning, you will travel from Portomarin, Today will culminate the walking part of your trip!
Accommodation. through the forest to the Palas de Rei. This was a Before reaching the final destination, you will first
notable city in the Middle Ages, as it contained a stop for Mass on Mount Joy (Monte del Gozo).
Day 3º MADRID - FONCEBADON - IRON Royal Hospital and the church of San Tirso. As the You will know that you are approaching Santiago
CROSS - O’CEBREIRO - SARRIA rugged hike continues, it will continue through because, at this point, you will be able to see the
This morning, you will be transferred to Sarria. fields, forests and barns. In addition, you will see towers of the Cathedral. When you arrive at the
Sarria is located in the northwest of Spain a remarkable feature of the Galician landscape, Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela, feel free
and stands out for being the entry point to the Los Cruceiros. These crosses along the way to say a little prayer in gratitude to Our Lord for
eastern side of the region, Galicia. Your transfer represent Christ and the Virgin Mary. Dinner and keeping you safe during the pilgrimage on foot.
will end and start on foot from Foncebadon. In enjoy a restful night in Palas de Rei. At this time, you will check into your hotel and
the eleventh century, this village was a common enjoy free time to explore the capital of Galicia,
resting place for pilgrims in El Camino due to Santiago. Accommodation.
Day 6º PALAS DE REI - ARZUA
its hospitals, hospices and churches. Today, the
Your pilgrimage continues as you travel from Day 10º SANTIAGO DE COMPOSTELA
structures that have served so many are now in
Palas de Rei to the bustling small town of Arzua. This morning you will wake up in the beautiful city
ruins. While you’re in Foncebadon, you’ll walk to
Before arriving in Arzua, your group will stop at of Santiago de Compostela! We started by visiting
see the Iron Cross. This cross is a common pause
Melide. This city is a crucial point of El Camino the Cathedral. Upon entering the Cathedral,
for pilgrims, as they leave a stone at the foot of
because it is where the French and Oviedo routes tradition will guide you as you embrace the
the cross to symbolize a sin or a burden that
converge. Upon arrival in Melide, you will notice dazzling statue of Santiago. We continue with our
they are leaving behind. Your tour continues to
the ancient paths dating back to the 14th century, visit that includes Plaza Obradoiro, the Fonseca
the village located in the mountains, O Cebreiro.
which are some of the oldest in the Galician Palace, the Gelmirez Palace, Franco Street and
Many pilgrims pause at this site because of the
region. As your group continues towards Arzua, much more. Accommodation.
Eucharistic Miracle that occurred in the year
you will cross the beautiful medieval bridge over
1300. Also, make sure you have your cameras
the Iso River to Ribadiso. After your visit to this Day 11º SANTIAGO DE COMPOSTELA
ready as this village is suspended at 1,300 meters
Chapel, your day will culminate with the arrival in
in the air and offers an impressive panoramic Your last day in Spain will start with breakfast
Arzua. Accommodation.
view. Accommodation. at your hotel, followed by a transfer to Santiago
Airport for your flight back home. You’ll say “see
Day 7º ARZUA
Day 4º SARRIA - PORTOMARIN you later” to your new friends on this trip.
Today is the day when your pilgrimage on foot Today, you will take a break to rest your body and
(El Camino) to Santiago de Compostela officially shake of fatigue. After Mass, there will be time to
begins! With the guidance of our Lord, and reflect on the journey so far and pass it at your *IMPORTANT NEWS:
through the spirit of James the Apostle, you own pace. Accommodation in Arzua. This itinerary involves an average of 13 to 20 daily
will become a true pilgrim as you travel the walking miles. It is essential that participants are
physical and spiritual journey. Your first official Day 8º ARZUA - ARCA DE O PINO able to complete the trip. We will have assistance
day of walking will culminate in Portomarin. Your journey is almost over when you walk to the vehicles available to help pilgrims who are unable
This city dates back to the Roman Age and was largest community before Santiago, Arca de O to complete a particular stage of the journey.
an important high along the route in the Middle Pino! As you travel this route, you will immerse
Ages. Due to the creation of a dam in 1962, Old yourself in the fragrant eucalyptus forests and
Portomarin is currently located under the Mino experience the stunning scenery. As you explore
9
PILGRIMAGES 2021
FRANCE SANCTUARIES Mont
Caen Lisieux
Paris
St. Michel
Nevers
Paray Le Monial
Lourdes
Day 1º DEPARTURE After breakfast, transfer to Paray Le Monial. family’s home, Les Buissonets. In addition, he will
Departure to Lourdes. Accommodation. tour the parish of Santa Teresa, the Cathedral of
St. Peter and the Carmelite Convent, where Santa
Day 2º LOURDES - TOULOUSE - LOURDES Day 5º PARAY LE MONIAL - NEVERS - Teresa entered in 1888 and is currently buried
PARIS with his parents. The tour of the life of the “Little
When you arrive at Pau or Toulouse airport, go to
You will start your day with breakfast and then Flower” culminates when you board the bus to get
the baggage claim area and collect your luggage.
celebrate Mass, with some free time for prayer to the “City of Lights” - Paris. Accommodation.
Go to the arrivals hall, where you will be greeted
by your tour guide and/or driver. You will embark and reflection. After Mass, you will visit the
Chapel of the Visitation, where Jesus exposed Day 8º PARIS
on a panoramic trip to Lourdes. Check in at your
hotel and then relax or explore before dinner. After His Sacred Heart to St. Margaret Mary Alacoque, Today, you will enjoy a full sightseeing tour of
dinner, you will have free time to pray the Rosary in the seventeenth century. These apparitions Paris. After breakfast, you will visit and celebrate
and attend the procession by candlelight (April to allowed St. Margaret to rest on the Sacred Heart Mass at the Shrine of Our Lady of the Miraculous
October only), guided by the Most Holy Rosary. of Jesus and experience unconditional love for Medal, where you will see the uncorrupted body
After this prayer experience, you will return to humanity. During your visit to this sacred place, of St. Catherine Laboure. The guardian angel of
your hotel for the night. you will have the opportunity to see relics of the the Holy led her to the chapel, where the Blessed
beloved Santa, located under a wax figure of it. Virgin Mary appeared. During the apparitions, Our
Day 3º LOURDES We’re moving on to Nevers. Nevers is the site Lady repeatedly instructed the manufacture and
During your time in Lourdes, you will pray and where St Bernadette lived for twelve years as purpose of the Miraculous Medal, as well as the
meditate on the site of the apparitions of Our a member of the Congregation of the Sisters of green scapular. According to the Blessed Virgin
Lady. Our Lady first appeared to Bernadette in Nevers. The saint suffered from several diseases, Mary, those who wear the Miraculous Medal and
1858, and announced herself as “The Immaculate such as asthma, pulmonary tuberculosis and the scapular will receive special protection and
Conception”, near the Grotto of Massabielle. a tuberculous tumor in her right knee. For abundant graces. You’ll continue your day with a
During the first two appearances, little Bernadette this reason, St. Bernadette received “The Last visit to Notre Dame Cathedral, a perfect example
prayed the Rosary with Our Lady and left without Sacraments” three times and finally died in 1879, of Gothic art. free time. Accommodation.
any exchange of words. During the following at the age of thirty-five. In the end we leave for
apparitions, Our Lady emphasized God’s love Paris. Accommodation. Day 9º PARIS
for us, penance, and the need to perform acts of Today is the second part of the tour of Paris. We
penance for sinners. During all the time you spend Day 6º PARIS - MONT ST MICHAEL - CAEN will see the most recognizable symbol of the city
in Lourdes, you will have the opportunity to attend After breakfast, we leave for Mont St Michael. of Paris, the Eiffel Tower. Historically, the Original
Mass in the Grotto, where Our Lady appeared Today we have an exciting day where we will meet Intention of the Tower was to commemorate the
to Bernadette, watch a video presentation that Mont Saint Michel. We will have free time to tour centenary of the French Revolution, but later, it
explains in detail the history of Lourdes, drink the cobbled alleys of Mont Saint Michel, to visit assisted in meteorology, telegraphy during World
water from the miraculous source that has cured the abbey that is located at the top of the rock and War I, radio and television. Stop by L’Arch de
muc and dive into the healing baths. In addition, free lunch. We will continue our journey to Caen, Triomphe, a monument that symbolizes gratitude
you will have the opportunity to experience the with 1000 years of history. Accommodation. for those who fought for France. This monument
unconditional love of Christ, as you meditate is located on the west end of Champ-Elysees,
on the “life-size” Cross Stations that overlook Day 7º CAEN - LISIEUX - PARIS one of the most famous boulevards in the world,
the Grotto of Massabielle. Also in Lourdes, After breakfast, we leave for Lisieux: we will and another of our stops on the sightseeing
you will enter and meditate on the footsteps explore the life of St. Teresa. According to Pope tour. We will also pass by the always famous
of St. Bernadette. Your group will have the Pius X, Saint Teresa of Lisieux was the “greatest Louvre Museum. * This museum is one of the
opportunity to see the birthplace of St. Bernadette saint of modern times. His extraordinary love best in the world and contains a series of pieces
and the “Cachot”, an abandoned prison where for God and his service to humanity will come that really emanate not only French art but also
Bernadette’s impoverished family lived. Each to life as you walk in the footsteps of the Great European culture. Your day full of fun and hustle
night after dinner, (April to October only) you will Holy. During your visit, you will see the beautiful and bustle ends with a small Parisian “cruise”.
have the opportunity to attend the procession by Basilica of Santa Teresa, and the magnificent Accommodation.
candlelight and the Rosary, before a night’s rest. mosaics and stained glass windows it contains.
After your visit to the Basilica, you will have the Day 10º PARIS
Day 4º LOURDES - PARAY LE MONIAL opportunity to see relics, clothing and personal After breakfast, you will transfer to Paris Airport to
This morning, you’ll wake up feeling well rested! belongings of St. Teresa, when you visit your take the flight back home.
10PILGRIMAGES 2021
Loyola FATIMA, SPAIN
Burgos
Salamanca Lourdes AND LOURDES
Fatima
Avila
Lisbon
Day 1º DEPARTURE Clerea, a church and school of the Jesuit order; cathedral. In the late afternoon, you will return to
Departure to Lisboa. The House of the Shells, currently a public library your hotel for a restful night.
but also, a monument noticed and decorated
Day 2º ARRIVAL TO LISBON with shells, symbolizing the pilgrimage always Day 7º BURGOS - LOYOLA - LOURDES
This afternoon we will enjoy a panoramic tour of famous to Santiago (El Camino); the University After breakfast, transfer from Burgos to Loyola
Lisbon, which will include the Monastery of St. of Salamanca, the oldest university in Spain and to visit the birthplace of St. Ignatius, founder of
Jerome, built to thank the Virgin Mary, we will drive the third oldest in Europe; the Roman bridge, the Order of the Jesuits. St Ignatius dedicated
through the Tower of Belem and many landmarks, which stretches along the Tormes River, is a himself to becoming a soldier of the Christian
including the April 25 Bridge, the Basilica of the national monument and one of Salamanca’s most faith and, as a result of many tribulations, wrote
Star and La Carpa of Pombal Square. Our last resilient bridges; The Church of San Marco, built the ever-famous Spiritual Exercises. In Loyola,
stop will be St. Anthony’s Church. The Church in Romanesque style; The Church of San Martín, you will see the 17th-century basilica dedicated
where we will celebrate Mass is built on the birth a church dedicated to Saint Martin of Porres, who to this remarkable saint. The Basilica is part of a
of St. Anthony. Accommodation in Lisbon. is the patron saint of people of mixed race and series of buildings surrounding the “Holy House”,
all those who seek interracial harmony. Visit the the birthplace of St. Ignatius. We will continue to
Day 3º LISBON - SANTAREM - FATIMA interior of Salamanca’s two cathedrals (old and Lourdes with a spectacular view of the Pyrenees.
new), one in Romanesque style and one in Gothic Accommodation in Lourdes.
Today, we will head to Fatima, on the way we will
stop in the city of Santarem for Mass in the Church style. After this eventful day, we return to our
hotel. Accommodation in Salamanca. Day 8º LOURDES
of St. Stephen and to venerate the Eucharistic
Miracle of the thirteenth century. Continue to During your time in Lourdes, you will pray and
Fatima, a village of Aljustrel, the birthplace and Day 6º SALAMANCA - ALBA DE TORMES - meditate elsewhere in the apparitions of Our
home of the three shepherd children. Dinner and AVILA - BURGOS Lady. Our Lady first appeared to Bernadette in
accommodation in Fatima. This morning, after breakfast, we will enjoy a 1858, and announced herself as “The Immaculate
short transfer to the village of Alba de Tormes. Conception”, near the Grotto of Massabielle.
Day 4º FATIMA This city is home to the Carmelite Monastery that During the first two appearances, little Bernadette
Today will surely be a memorable experience. Santa Teresa founded in 1571. When we arrive in prayed the Rosary with Our Lady and left without
Our Lady appeared to three shepherd children; Alba de Tormes, we will have a quick Mass in this any exchange of words. During the following
Lucia (10 years), Jacinta (7 years) and Francisco Monastery where the saint died and was buried. apparitions, Our Lady emphasized God’s love
(9 years). These appearances occurred monthly After Mass, you will have the opportunity to visit for us, penance, and the need to perform acts
from May to October 1917. Our deeply reflective the museum dedicated to Santa Teresa de Avila, of penance for sinners. During all his time in
day begins with a visit to the Little Chapel of Lourdes, we will have the opportunity to attend
which also holds her uncorrupted heart and left
Apparitions. Continue with a visit to the impressive Mass in the Grotto, where Our Lady appeared
arm. We continue to the medieval city of Avila.
neoclassical church, the Basilica of Our Lady of to Bernadette; In addition, you will have the
Upon arrival in Avila, you will immediately notice
the Rosary. This sacred space contains the tombs opportunity to experience the unconditional
the perfectly preserved walls of the eleventh
of San Francisco, Santa Jacinta and Sister Lucia. love of Christ, as you meditate on the “life-
century that surround the old town. The Cathedral
Continue with a visit to the Basilica of the Holy size” Cross Stations that overlook the Grotto of
of Avila encompasses the Romanesque, Gothic
Trinity. Free time. Your night will end with private Massabielle. His group will have the opportunity
and Renaissance styles of its time, within its
devotions and a candlelit procession, requested to see Boly Mill, the birthplace of St. Bernadette
work of art and architecture. The Basilica of St.
by Our Lady (1917). Accommodation in Fatima. and the “Cachot”, an abandoned prison where
Vincent in Avila, is located on the site of the
Bernadette’s impoverished family lived. You will
martyrdom of St. Vincent. Visit the Convent of the
Day 5º FATIMA - SALAMANCA have the opportunity to attend the procession by
Incarnation, where Saint Teresa became a nun.
candlelight and the Rosary before a night’s rest.
Breakfast at the hotel. We leave Fatima and head Santa Teresa convinced San Juan de la Cruz to
for Salamanca. Salamanca is a city in the region reform the male Carmelite order, the reform that
Day 9º LOURDES
of Castilla y León, and is known for its large began when she met San Juan in Medina del
Campo. After following in the footsteps of Santa Flights back home. After an early breakfast and a
university, the oldest in Spain that is still active,
Teresa, continue your trip to Burgos. Upon arrival sincere farewell, your group will depart by coach
along with its prominent culture. Our walking
in the historic capital of Castilla la Vieja, you will and travel to Toulouse, Pau or Lourdes airport to
tour will take us through the most notable sites
have the opportunity to explore the city of Burgos take the flights back home.
like; the great Plaza Mayor, an iconic square
full of food, shopping and events of the city; La and admire its magnificent Gothic limestone
11PILGRIMAGES 2021
PILGRIMAGE
TO MEDJUGORJE Medjugorie
Day 1º DEPARTURE hill is a Blue Cross, where Our Lady is said to on the altar outside the Church of St. James.
Departure to Medjugorje. have appeared to the children as they hid from Worship takes place on Tuesdays and Saturdays;
the Communist police in the early days of the Veneration of the Cross takes place on Fridays
alleged apparitions. As he climbs, his group is inside the church. In addition, there is a Chapel
Day 2º ARRIVAL TO MEDJUGORJE
invited to recite the Rosary, pausing five times for of Adoration on the grounds of St. James Church,
Upon arrival in Europe, change the gates to board
each decade of the Rosary. At the top of the hill, where Adoration is celebrated in the afternoon
your short connecting flight to: Dubrovnik, Split hours. Meetings with visionaries: Pending
you will witness the exact location of Our Lady’s
or Sarajevo Airport. Upon arrival, pick up your first supposed appearance to the visionaries, and availability, your guide will arrange meetings with
luggage in the baggage claim area and continue you will enjoy a private time for prayer. Climb the visionaries in their homes. Visit to the community
to the arrivals hall, where you will be greeted by mountain. Krizevac (Cross Mountain): In 1933, of Cenacolo: You will have the opportunity to
a tour guide and/or driver, who will take you on the villagers built a 30’ high cross on a mountain visit the community of Cenacolo, founded by the
the 2.5-hour journey to the village of Medjugorje. to commemorate the passion and death of Jesus Sisters of Charity, for young men and women who
Enjoy dinner before retiring at night. on the cross. Your group will have the opportunity have taken the wrong path and are on their way to
to climb this mountain and venerate that same recovery. You can hear his inspiring words about
Day 3º - 8º MEDJUGORJE cross. As you climb, your group is invited to his journeys back to Jesus Christ. Prayer on the
The most beautiful features of Medjugorje are its pray the Stations of the Cross (to meditate on the statue of the Risen Christ: The bronze statue of
simplicity and peace. While in Medjugorje, you suffering of the Way to Calvary of Jesus), stopping the Risen Christ is located on the grounds of the
can experience your faith growing and share the fifteen times for each Station. Appearances: every Church of St. James. Many pilgrims sit and pray
journey of faith of pilgrims from all over the world. night at 5 p.m. or 6 p.m. (depending on daylight on the benches surrounding this peaceful statue.
A local guide will accompany your group during saving time), your group will join the villagers This statue miraculously filters water droplets at
your stay in the village. Some activities that will and fellow pilgrims of Medjugorje to pray the all times of the day, outside christ’s right knee.
accompany you on your spiritual journey: Attend Rosary, as they all anxiously await the supposed
Daily Mass: Every morning at 10:00 a.m., your arrival of Our Lady to the visionaries. After the Day 9º MEDJUGORJE
group will meet at St. James Church for Mass. apparition, at 5:40 PM (6:40 PM during daylight After an early breakfast and a sincere farewell,
At the end of each Mass, regardless of language, saving time), feel free to stay at St. James Church we set off by coach to Dubrovnik Airport (Split or
there is a blessing from the religious items you and attend Croatian Mass. After Croatian Mass, Sarajevo) for our flights back home.
have with you. On public holidays and Sundays: there is a blessing from the sick. Adoration of the
Mass in English is at 12 p.m. Climb the hill of Blessed Sacrament: Our Lady has always called
appearance: this mountainous hill is where us to be close to her Son. For this, you will have
visionaries first met Our Lady. At the base of this the opportunity to worship the Blessed Sacrament
12PILGRIMAGES 2021
Nazareth
Tiberiades
Galilea
HOLY LAND
Tel Aviv Jordan Valley
Jerusalem
Belen
Day 1º DEPARTURE Tiberiades. In the afternoon, we will continue the Model depicting the City of Jerusalem in the
Departure to Tel Aviv. to Tabgha to visit the site of the Multiplication time of Jesus are on display. View of the Hebrew
of The Breads and Fishes. Then we continue to University of Jerusalem continuing towards
Day 2º ARRIVAL TO TEL AVIV Capernahum, the most important Ministry of the Ein Karem, a picturesque neighborhood on the
Arrival at the airport, reception by our last four years of Jesus, to visit the Old Synagogue outskirts of Jerusalem to visit the Shrine of St.
representative at the airport, assistance and and the House of St. Peter, we will continue John the Baptist. From there we will continue to
transfer to Tel Aviv. Accommodation in Tel-Aviv. towards the Mount of The Beatitudes, scene of the the Yad Vashem Memorial, a memorial to the 6
Sermon on the Mountain. Finally a brief visit to million Jews who perished in the Holocaust. In
Day 3º: TEL AVIV - JAFFA - CAESAREA - the Diamond Factory, the second most important the afternoon you will travel to Bethlehem. Visit
HAIFA - ACRE - GALILEA industry in the country. Accommodation in Galilee the Church of the Nativity and the Grotto of the
Breakfast buffet. Departure for a brief visit to (Hotel or Kibbutz) Birth, Chapels of St. Jerome and San Jose. Back
the city of Tel Aviv-Jaffa. Continuation along to Jerusalem. Accommodation in Jerusalem.
the coastal route to Caesarea, Roman city of the Day 5º TIBERIADES – JORDAN VALLEY –
time of King Herod, famous for its grandiose JERUSALEM Day 7º JERUSALEM (OLD CITY)
architecture and port, whose importance endured Breakfast buffet. We will leave Tiberiades heading Breakfast buffet. Exit via Mount Scopus towards
until the time of the Crusaders. Visit to the Roman towards Yardenit (place of Baptism), on the banks Mount Olives. Panorama of the Holy Walled City.
Theatre, a cross town and the aqueduct. We of the Jordan River. We will continue to travel Continuation to Gethsemane, Basilica of Agony.
continue towards Haifa, located on the slopes through the Jordan Valley to Beit Shean, one of the Departure to the Old City. Visit of the Western Wall
of Mount Carmel to enjoy a panoramic view of main cities of the Greek decapolis whose strategic (Western Wall). We will continue with the visit to
the city, the Bahai Temple and its famous Persian importance due to its geographical location has the Via Dolorosa, Church of the Holy Sepulchre.
Gardens. Continue to Acre, to visit the fortified endured throughout history to this day. Visit of Then to Mount Zion to visit King David’s Tomb, the
city of the Crusaders of medieval times, from archaeological excavations. Continuation via Upper Room (Last Supper Room), and the Abbey
where you can appreciate the walls of the ancient Judean Desert towards Jerusalem, bordering of the Dormition. Accommodation in Jerusalem.
city. He continues to the Galilee. Accommodation the city of Jericho and being able to appreciate
in Galilee (Hotel or Kibutz) from the road the Mount of Temptations. Day 8º JERUSALEM
Accommodation in Jerusalem. Breakfast buffet. Day off. Optional Tour Massada
Day 4º GALILEA – NAZARETH – and the Dead Sea. Accommodation in Jerusalem.
TIBERIADES Day 6º JERUSALEM (NEW CITY) - BELEN -
Breakfast buffet. Departure via Cana de Galilee JERUSALEM Day 9º JERUSALEM – TEL AVIV
towards Nazareth. Visit of the Basilica of the Breakfast buffet. Departure for a visit to Jerusalem’s Breakfast buffet. At the indicated departure time to
Annunciation and the Carpentry of Joseph. It New city. Visit of the Book Sanctuary at the Israel Ben-Gurion airport in Tel Aviv to take your return
continues to skirt the Sea of Galilee towards Museum, where the Dead Sea manuscripts and flight.
13PILGRIMAGES 2021
PILGRIMAGE
TO POLAND Auschwitz Krakow
Wadowice Wieliczka
Zakopane
Day 1º DEPARTURE Window, in which, during his visits to Krakow, he “Church of the Ark” or “The Ark of Our Lord”.
Salida hacia Cracovia. used to make night appearances to address the The church was built brick by brick by volunteer
crowds of his followers gathered below, we will workers without assistance from communist
Day 2º ARRIVAL TO KRAKOW see the Franciscan Church, where, as a young authorities. We will celebrate Mass and then
Arrival in Krakow international airport. Upon arrival man, he used to pray, and explore the Collegium return to the hotel in time for dinner. Overnight.
we meet our tour manager who will accompany Maius, where he studied. We will end our tour in
us throughout our tour Depending on the flight the Church of Santa María, home to the largest Day 4º KRAKOW - AUSCHWITZ -
arrival time, we will schedule Mass celebration wooden altar in Europe , and in the main market HARMEZE - WADOWICE - KRAKOW
in the Skałka, the Basilica of St. Stanislaus on square. Free time and lunch is self-arranged in Breakfast and departure to Auschwitz, known as
the Rock. As the first native Polish saint, Saint this area. We then continue our tour of Krakow. the Nazi concentration camp during World War
Stanislaus is one of Poland’s patron saints. We We cross the Wisla River and view the house in II. While visiting the old camp you can feel the
then continue to our hotel. After check-in, enjoy Debniki, where St. John Paul II lived as a student, darkness and sadness that invade the atmosphere,
a delicious dinner and have the opportunity to and the Nazi occupation force, forced him to as there were countless indescribable atrocities
explore the city of Krakow before retiring to rest work in the Zakrzowek quarry, while studying that occurred in this place. In addition, during
during the night. Dinner and overnight. at a seminary. Finally, we will explore the Nowa this visit, we will have the opportunity to see
Huta district. This unique district, complete with the cell that imprisoned Saint Maximilian Kolbe
Day 3º KRAKOW steel factories and houses built by the Soviet and visit the Martyrdom Museum. Then, we will
regime in a realistic socialist style with many pass by Birkenau camp, the site of St. Edith
Breakfast at the hotel and departure for a full
Renaissance influences, was destined to be a Stein’s martyrdom. Later, we visite the Franciscan
day panoramic city tour in Krakow. We pass
model of “communist city”. Ironically, it later monastery near Harmeze, consecrated under
by the Wawel hill, the former “seat of power” of
became one of the centers of revolution and the patronage of St. Maximilian Kolbe. We then
the Polish monarchs. There, we visit the Wawel
resistance, which led to the eventual overthrow continue to the small town of Wadowice, the
Cathedral (entrance included), the main Polish
of the communist regime in Poland. As bishop birthplace of Karol Wojtyla. Free time for own
national sanctuary. The Cathedral served as the
and local cardinal, Karol Wojtyla played a key lunch, we then enjoy a visit of the family home of
Seat of Karol Wojtyla, the future Saint Paul II,
role in this transformation. For years, he met with St. John Paul II on Rua Koscielna. Since then, it
during his term as Archbishop of Krakow. His
local people, helped them organize spiritually has been converted into a museum, with exhibits
connection with this sanctuary goes even further:
and celebrated Masses outdoors with them. He of the old possessions of the Wojtyla family. We
he celebrated his first mass as a young priest in
struggled hard to build the first Catholic Church then visit the local church where this beloved saint
the Crypt of St. Leonard. We will then visit the
in this area, which led to the construction of the was baptized, he received his first sacrament of
old town on Kanonicza Street, where the future
Church of Our Lady of Poland, also known as communion, attended mass as a child and served
Pope lived while in Krakow, and the famous Papal
14PILGRIMAGES 2021
as an Altar Boy. Finally we have the opportunity Sisters. As pope, he visited the sisters only Day 7º KRAKOW – SANCTUARY OF
to see the miraculous image of Our Lady of once, during his pilgrimage to Poland in 1997. CZESTOCHOWA - WIELICZKA - KRAKOW
Perpetual Help, that St. John Paul II prayed daily. He often declared a special connection to this Today we will visit the largest pilgrimage sanctuary
The church is now known as the Basilica of the Retreat House and called it “his second home” on in Poland since the 16th century! We visit the
Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary. At the several occasions. The room in which he stayed Jasna Gora Monastery, home to the beloved Black
end of visit we we will enjoy a slice of the famous is practically intact and serves as a small museum Madonna icon, and celebrate Mass. St. John Paul
Papieska Kremowka (‘Papal’ cream cake and then that celebrates his memory. Then, we continue our II frequently visited this monastery throughout his
we return to Krakow. Dinner and overnight. walk along the colorful Krupowki Street. Free time life. Tradition tells us that this icon was painted
to shop at the local bazaar and have lunch on your by Lucas Evangelista, discovered by Saint Helena
Day 5º KRAKOW - ZAKOPANE – KRAKOW own. From here, we will take a funicular to nearby and later consecrated. After mass we visit the Black
After breakfast, we will travel through the Podhale Gubalowka to enjoy stunning views of the Tatra Madonna Chapel and have the great privilege of
region to the Tatra Mountains and the small city Mountains and panoramic views of Zakopane. visiting the Library. This 18th century library is
of Zakopane. It is considered the capital of Polish Return to Krakow for dinner and overnight. richly decorated and houses an incomparable
winter sports, but it is also an important spiritual collection of precious ancient manuscripts dating
place. People in the region always shared a special Day 6º KRAKOW - DIVINE MERCY - from the medieval era. Free time for lunch. Then
connection with Pope John Paul II. Upon arrival, LAGIEWNIKI - KRAKOW we will continue on to Wieliczka, a small town on
we visit the Sanctuary of the Virgin of Fátima, a After breakfast, we head to Lagiewniki, capital the outskirts of Krakow. We enjoy a guided tour of
chapel built in 1999 as a votive offer for the speed of Divine Mercy. Through the mediation of Saint the world famous Wieliczka salt mines. The mines
recovery of St. John Paul II after the assassination Faustina, Christ transmitted the message of Divine are known for beautiful and unique underground
attempt. The Sanctuary has been extended over Mercy in Lagiewniki. We will begin our visit to the tunnels filled with buildings carved precisely in
the years and contains relics of the Holy Pope and “Don’t be afraid” Center, where we can pray for salt, which include many biblical icons and a
many souvenirs, including the special field altar, the relic of St. John Paul II and celebrate Mass statue of St. John Paul II. We will return to Krakow
which St. John Paul II used to celebrate a field in one of the chapels. We then visit the Sanctuary for a farewell dinner and overnight.
Mass in 1997, during his last visit to Zakopane. of Divine Mercy, where Saint Faustina, Apostle of
We visit the Jaszczurowka Chapel. This beautiful Divine Mercy, lived and died. We see images of Day 8º KRAKOW
wooden chapel was visited many times by St. the Merciful Jesus, the relics of Saint Faustina, Breakfast and transfer to the airport.
John Paul II. Then, we will visit the nearby as well as the Chapel of the Convent of Saints
Retreat House, managed by the Ursuline Sisters. and his Tomb. We then return back to Krakow and End of services.
During his frequent visits to Zakopane, the future enjoy the afternoon at our leisure. Dinner is free.
Pope used to take the humble hospitality of the Overnight.
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