Walking in the Footsteps of the Faithful
What Is a Pilgrimage to the Saints—and Why It Matters
A Pilgrimage to the Saints is so much more than sightseeing. It’s an intimate, soul-stirring journey that connects you to centuries of unwavering faith, sacrifice, and miracles. These sacred routes and hallowed places invite us to walk in the footsteps of the faithful, tapping into a living spiritual legacy that transcends time.
Discovering the Sacred Power of Pilgrimage
1. Seeking Intercession
Visiting saintly tombs and reliquaries invites us into a conversation, leaving candles, flowers, prayers, or petitions behind and asking for the saints’ heavenly guidance.
2. Finding Inspiration
When you’re face to face with objects that once held the hands of saints, you witness lives transformed by hope, endurance, and faith.
3. Experiencing Miracles
Countless pilgrims report healings—physical, mental, emotional—believing the presence of holy relics makes the impossible possible.
4. Connecting to Church History
Stepping into sites tied to saintly figures lets you physically walk alongside history, connecting today’s world with faith’s living past.
Sacred Pilgrimage to the Saints’ Destinations
Rome, Italy – The Heartbeat of Saintly Tradition
St. Peter’s Basilica – Tomb of St. Peter
Why Visit: Beneath Michelangelo’s awe-inspiring dome lies the tomb of St. Peter, the first pope, marking the spiritual center of Christianity.
Pilgrim Experience: Descend into the Scavi (Vatican Necropolis), where archaeology confirms a 1st-century tomb marked “Peter is here.” Feel the weight of history and faith beneath your feet.
Basilica of St. Paul Outside the Walls – Tomb of St. Paul
Why Visit: St. Paul’s final resting place anchors his remarkable legacy—the missionary letters that shaped Christianity.
Pilgrim Experience: Kneel beside his tomb, just as generations have done, and whisper your hopes and dreams into a lineage of faith.
The Catacombs of Rome
Why Visit: These ancient burial tunnels preserve the faith of early Christian martyrs and saints—raw, underground, echoing with devotion.
Pilgrim Experience: Walk dim corridors and picture the brave souls who risked everything for their beliefs. You feel a tangible connection to the origins of faith.
Santiago de Compostela, Spain – The Ultimate Pilgrimage to the Saints
Camino de Santiago – Walking the Way of St. James
Why Visit: A Pilgrimage to the Saints destination that’s as much about inner transformation as it is about reaching the Cathedral of Santiago.
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Camino Francés, del Norte… whatever route you choose, the constant rhythm of footsteps invites introspection.
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Botafumeiro: Experience the awe as this massive incense thurible swings above the Mass congregation—a living symbol of centuries of devotion.
Pilgrim Experience: Whether you trek 30km or 800km, crossing mountain passes and medieval villages, your arrival at the Cathedral is cathartic. Embrace St. James’ statue above the altar, then move down to his relics for a moment of profound connection.
Assisi, Italy – Where Simplicity Became Holiness
Basilica of St. Francis – Tomb of St. Francis
Why Visit: The saint of simplicity and nature lies beneath richly frescoed ceilings in spiritual harmony.
Pilgrim Experience: Step into the lower basilica, kneel in prayer beside his tomb, and let the gentle hush of medieval art whisper ancient truths.
Basilica of St. Clare & San Damiano Cross
Why Visit: St. Clare’s tomb lies near the original cross in San Damiano, which transformed St. Francis’ heart and mission.
Pilgrim Experience: Pause in Clare’s serene Church, then tremble with reverence before the faithful cross that called Francis to rebuild the Church.
Walking Assisi
Why Visit: The town is part of the pilgrimage—cobblestones, humble chapels, olive groves.
Pilgrim Experience: Spend days attending Mass in the Porziuncola (St. Mary of the Angels) and let the peace of Francis’ world sink into your heart.
Lisieux, France – The Little Way of St. Thérèse
Basilica of St. Thérèse – Relics & Roses
Why Visit: This modern basilica houses the relics of the “Little Flower,” known for her gentle spirituality and overflowing love.
Pilgrim Experience: Pilgrims come clutching fresh roses, recalling her promise of a “shower of roses” from heaven.
Padua, Italy – In the Company of St. Anthony
Basilica of St. Anthony – Tomb of St. Anthony
Why Visit: Anthony is known as the patron saint of lost things and lost souls, drawing millions each year.
Pilgrim Experience: Touch his tomb, press your petitions to it, and pray for what’s missing—tangible or spiritual.
Preparing for Your Pilgrimage to the Saints
How to Make the Journey Truly Spiritual
Learn the Saint’s Story
Study a saint’s life before you go. It turns stones and bones into relatable, inspiring figures whose stories breathe fresh meaning into your own.
Bring Prayers & Offerings
Leave heartfelt notes, light candles, bring flowers, or personal tokens. Pilgrimage is about physical acts of devotion.
Attend Pilgrim-Friendly Mass
Sites like St. Peter’s or Santiago offer pilgrim-specific services, designed to welcome the traveling faithful.
Sit in Silence
These tombs hold energy that often transcends words. Sit quietly, breathe, and let a moment of stillness be your prayer.
Embarking on an Ongoing Pilgrimage to the Saints
A Pilgrimage to the Saints doesn’t end when you return home—instead, it begins anew. You carry forward the lessons of humility, courage, and faith. You continue to walk in holiness.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How long does a pilgrimage to a saint typically take?
A: It varies. Camino pilgrimages might take a month, and visits to Rome or Padua can be made in days. But spiritually? There’s no time limit.
Q: Do I need to be Catholic?
A: No. These are human stories of transformation. Adventurers of faith from all backgrounds find connection.
Q: What about miracles—are they real?
A: Many swear they’ve experienced healings or breakthroughs at these sites. Science may not explain them, but pilgrims testify to their truth.
Q: When is the best time to go?
A: Spring and fall offer comfortable weather and pilgrim energy. Highways are filled with travelers in summer, but winter brings serenity and fewer crowds.
Pilgrimage to the Saints: A Journey of the Heart
To go on a Pilgrimage to the Saints is to step through doors that open to something far bigger — something built on faith, bravery, service, and love. You are not just visiting old stones; you are walking in the footsteps of the faithful. You become part of a tapestry that…
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Stretches back 2,000 years
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Touches millions of lives
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Continues through you
Whether standing beneath the dome of St. Peter’s, processing across northern Spain, or pausing inside Assisi’s gentle beauty, you are stepping into a far-reaching story. And your footsteps, offered in prayer, curiosity, and wonder, carry it forward.
Robert Riesmeyer is the visionary Founder and Experience Curator of Epic Explorations, a boutique travel company dedicated to crafting extraordinary journeys worldwide. Rooted in a passion for exploration, Robert brings a unique blend of creativity and commitment to every adventure, ensuring each experience is as unforgettable as the destinations themselves.
Originally from the Midwest, Robert left behind a career in insurance to pursue his dream of sharing the world's wonders with fellow travelers. With a focus on safety and an eye for the unexpected, he curates immersive experiences that allow travelers to connect deeply with the world, fostering curiosity, connection, and unforgettable memories.
Beyond his role in travel, Robert embraces the spirit of giving through his portrayal of Santa Claus, spreading joy to families and children during the holiday season. Through this role and Epic Explorations, he supports numerous charities, including Shadow Buddies, Mother's Refuge, Moving Ahead, Opertion Breakthrough and Santa America, bringing kindness and hope to those in need.
Based in Kansas City, Robert is constantly in search of new frontiers, dreaming big, giving back, and inspiring others to explore even bigger.