Some journeys take us through history. Others take us deep into scripture. But pilgrimages to the tombs and relics of saints are about something more intimate—walking in the footsteps of those who lived out their faith to its fullest, who suffered, sacrificed, and, in many cases, performed miracles.

From St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome to the Camino de Santiago, from the tomb of St. Francis of Assisi to the relics of St. Thérèse of Lisieux, these sites carry centuries of devotion. Pilgrims arrive seeking inspiration, miracles, or a connection to the saints whose lives continue to shape faith today.

Why visit the resting places of saints? And what makes these journeys so powerful? Let’s explore.

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Why Undertake a Pilgrimage to a Saint’s Tomb or Relic?

A pilgrimage to the tomb of a saint is more than just an act of reverence—it’s a spiritual encounter. For many believers, visiting these sacred sites is about:

• Seeking Intercession – Saints are seen as powerful intercessors, guiding prayers to God. Many pilgrims pray at their tombs, leaving notes, candles, or flowers as signs of devotion.
• Finding Inspiration – The lives of the saints are often stories of transformation, perseverance, and faith. Being near their relics can be a reminder of how faith shapes lives.
• Experiencing Miracles – Many sites are associated with miraculous healings or interventions, drawing those in need of physical or spiritual renewal.
• Connecting to the Church’s History – The saints form the living history of Christianity, and visiting their tombs is a way to walk through that legacy.

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Sacred Pilgrimage Sites of the Saints

Rome, Italy: The Heart of the Saints

Rome is not just the center of the Catholic Church—it is also home to some of the most important tombs and relics in Christianity.

St. Peter’s Basilica (Tomb of St. Peter)

• Why Visit? The great basilica is built over the tomb of St. Peter, the first pope and one of Christ’s closest disciples. The grandeur of St. Peter’s Square and the basilica itself is breathtaking, but the real power is underground—where his bones rest.
• Pilgrim Experience: Visit the Scavi (Vatican Necropolis) beneath the basilica, where archaeologists confirmed the presence of a 1st-century tomb marked “Peter is here.”

The Basilica of St. Paul Outside the Walls

• Why Visit? This massive basilica houses the tomb of St. Paul, the Apostle to the Gentiles, whose letters form a major part of the New Testament.
• Pilgrim Experience: Kneel before St. Paul’s tomb, just as centuries of Christians have before.

The Catacombs of Rome

• Why Visit? These ancient underground cemeteries are filled with the graves of early Christians, including many martyrs and saints.
• Pilgrim Experience: Walking through the dimly lit tunnels, you get a sense of the raw, early faith that Christianity was built upon.

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Santiago de Compostela, Spain: The Way of St. James

The Camino de Santiago is one of the most famous pilgrimage routes in the world. Pilgrims from across the globe walk for weeks—or even months—to reach the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela, where St. James (Santiago) is said to be buried.

Why Visit?

• Walking the Camino Francés, Camino del Norte, or other routes is a spiritual journey in itself, combining physical challenge with deep personal reflection.
• The Botafumeiro, a massive incense burner in the cathedral, swings dramatically over the congregation at Mass—a powerful, ancient tradition.

Pilgrim Experience:

Even if you don’t walk the entire Camino, arriving at Santiago’s tomb is an emotional experience. Many pilgrims embrace the Saint James statue above the altar before descending to his relics below.

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Assisi, Italy: The Home of St. Francis and St. Clare

Assisi, a peaceful medieval town, is forever linked to St. Francis, the beloved saint of simplicity and nature. It’s also home to St. Clare, who founded the Poor Clares.

Why Visit?

• The Basilica of St. Francis contains the saint’s tomb, a place of quiet prayer and reflection.
• The Basilica of St. Clare holds the remains of Clare and her famous San Damiano Cross, which spoke to Francis, calling him to rebuild the Church.
• The entire town radiates peace and holiness—many pilgrims stay for days in retreat.

Pilgrim Experience:

Walking Assisi’s cobblestone streets feels like stepping back into the time of Francis. Many pilgrims attend Mass at St. Mary of the Angels, where Francis built his humble chapel, the Porziuncola.

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Lisieux, France: St. Thérèse and the “Little Way”

St. Thérèse of Lisieux, also known as the Little Flower, lived a short but deeply spiritual life. She is one of the most beloved saints, known for her teachings on doing small things with great love.

Why Visit?

• The Basilica of St. Thérèse is a stunning church dedicated to her memory.
• Her relics have traveled worldwide, and millions pray for her intercession.

Pilgrim Experience:

Many pilgrims arrive carrying roses, a symbol of St. Thérèse’s promise to send “a shower of roses” as blessings from heaven.

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Padua, Italy: St. Anthony’s Tomb

St. Anthony of Padua, the patron saint of lost things, is one of the most popular saints in history.

Why Visit?

• The Basilica of St. Anthony is one of the most visited pilgrimage sites in the world.
• Many pilgrims pray over his tomb, touching it in devotion.

Pilgrim Experience:

Pilgrims leave written petitions near the tomb, hoping for St. Anthony’s intercession in finding lost people, faith, or purpose.

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Preparing for a Pilgrimage to a Saint’s Tomb

• Understand the Saint’s Story – Reading about the saint before visiting makes the experience more meaningful.
• Bring Prayers or Requests – Many pilgrims leave notes, candles, or flowers at the tomb.
• Attend a Pilgrim’s Mass – Many sites hold special services for visitors.
• Embrace the Silence – The tombs of saints often have a presence that words can’t describe. Take time to sit, reflect, and listen.

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A Pilgrimage That Lives On

Pilgrimages to the tombs of saints are not just about visiting a place—they are about encountering a life, a legacy, and a faith that still moves hearts today.

As you stand before the tomb of St. Peter, walk the Camino to St. James, or pray in the quiet of Assisi, you’re not just a traveler.

You’re part of the story—a story that has been unfolding for centuries, written by the lives of those who walked in faith before us.

And perhaps, in that sacred moment, you’ll find that their journey is now yours as well.