Every Wednesday thousands of pilgrims from around the globe gather to see Pope Francis. Unfortunately, with limited places, not everyone can participate. Also, with so many people wanting to attend, it can be a daunting task to arrange your own ticket and find your way through the crowds.
This one-of-a-kind escorted service not only makes sure that your tickets are reserved but also guarantees you a seat.
By way of an introduction, you’ll be treated to a full presentation on the fascinating story of the Papacy from the early Christian era to the present day.
You will then feel the force of faith and history as the Papal Audience begins. Hear the Cardinals preach in myriad languages to crowds of pilgrims from every corner of the world. Listen to Pope Frencis’s weekly message.
Sing with the worshippers or pray with the Pope or just absorb the extraordinary atmosphere of this powerful and moving occasion. It will be an experience you will never forget.
- Tour information
- Activity schedule
- Itinerary
When does it run?
01 Jan - 30 Jun and 01 Sep - 31 Dec: Wednesday
Duration
4 hours
Start time
0800h (08:00am)
(Please make sure you arrive at the meeting point 15 minutes before departure time as the tour cannot wait)
Meeting point
Meet your guide on the corner of Largo degli Alicorni in Piazza Pio XII (on the street corner facing St. Peter’s Square). If you are facing St. Peter’s Basilica our meeting point is located on the street corner next to the left hand side colonnade on the corner of Largo degli Alicorni and Piazza Pio XII (next to the Mosaic Art shop). The guide will be holding a sign saying ‘Legacy of the Vatican’.
Arriving from Ottaviano - Musei Vaticani Metro A Station: Exit the turnstiles – take the St. Peter’s Basilica exit. Once you exit the metro station walk down Via Ottaviano until you reach Piazza Risorgimento. Continue walking straight across the piazza and you will see the Vatican walls – follow Via di Porta Angelica until you arrive at the colonnade. Follow the colonnade to the left – when you arrive at the piazza you will see a second colonnade framing St. Peter’s Square. Our meeting point is located on the street corner next to the left hand side colonnade on the corner of Largo degli Alicorni and Piazza Pio XII (next to the Mosaic Art shop).
See on map
Ending point
This experience ends at the Papal Audience; the location of the event may vary
- Tour information
- Activity schedule
- Itinerary
Use this ultra-convenient escorted service to enjoy a Papal Audience with Pope Francis in the Vatican City. Meet your guide at 0745h (7:45am) on the corner of Largo degli Alicorni in Piazza Pio XII (on the street corner facing St. Peter’s Square). The guide will be holding a sign saying ‘Legacy of the Vatican’.
Your escort will have your tickets ready and will guide you through the crowds of pilgrims. An early arrival will ensure that you get good seats. The actual location of the Papal Audience caries according to the time of year. During spring and summer Audience is held outdoors at St. Peter’s Square while in the colder months the Audience takes place in the Sala of Paul VI within the Leonine Walls of Vatican City. The decision regarding the location of the Papal Audience is made by Vatican officials the day before the event.
Before the Papal Audience begins, you will watch a presentation on theLegacy of the Vatican. This unveils the fascinating history of the Papacy and the artists that contributed to the marvel of Vatican City. You will be provided with headsets and guided to your seats in St. Peter’s Square or the Sala of Paul VI.
Once seated, your guide will explain the origin of the Papacy from the first Christians through Constantine’s era and up to the current wonder of the Holy See. You will discover the history of St. Peter’s Square created by Bernini in the 17th century as you become familiar with the smallest sovereign state in the world. Your guide will provide a detailed explanation of the events of the Papal Audience and prepare you for your meeting with Pope Francis.
When the Papal Audience begins you will experience awe and wonder as the Cardinals preach in various languages to reach out to pilgrims and visitors from the far reaches of the world. Listen to the Pope’s weekly message as he enters the central stage. Feel free to sing with the spiritual leaders of the Church and pray with the Pope – the Head of State of Vatican City.
The Audience ends about noon and it is then your responsibility to arrange your own transport back to your hotel or other destination.