1What It Means for Visitors to Rome

For travelers and pilgrims, this period is both emotional and logistically impactful. Key Vatican sites like St. Peter’s Basilica, the Vatican Museums, and St. Peter’s Square may have altered visiting hours or closures. Security in the area is also greatly increased.
However, witnessing the transition of papal power is a rare and powerful experience. Pilgrims gather from around the globe, and Rome takes on a deeply reverent atmosphere. For many, it’s a once-in-a-lifetime moment of unity and history.

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