Dec 25, 2024 - World

Pope Francis opens yearlong Jubilee

Axios

Francis in doorway — ope Francis officially inaugurates the 2025 Jubilee Year with the solemn opening of the Holy Door at St. Peter's Basilica. Photo: Vatican Media via Vatican Pool/Getty Images

Continuing an ancient church tradition, Pope Francis on Christmas Eve officially opened the 2025 Jubilee — a year dedicated to the service of prisoners, poor people and victims of war.

By the numbers: 32 million people are expected to make a pilgrimage to Rome during the celebration. The antiquated city has tackled hundreds of infrastructure improvements and maintenance projects to be ready.

The Vatican unveiled a new pedestrian plaza Monday. Renovations to Rome's famous Trevi Fountain are complete.

Flashback: The first Jubilee was in 1300.

More recently, they've happened every 25 to 50 years. The next one is planned for 2033, to mark the 2,000th anniversary of the crucifixion of Christ.

Go deeper, via AP.

Add Axios on Google

Pope Francis opens yearlong Jubilee

What to read next