Pilgrims of Hope:
on the road to Rome
“Peregrinantes in Spem” (Pilgrims in Hope) is the motto of the Jubilee 2025, inviting believers to embark on a journey toward the hope of a better future, rooted in humanity, peace, and justice. Pilgrimages are one of the key symbols of the Holy Year, with millions of faithful traveling on foot to Rome to experience forgiveness, spiritual renewal, reconciliation, and an encounter with themselves, others, and God. The journey itself becomes an opportunity for reflection, as well as for discovering and rediscovering faith through a symbolic approach to the most important city of the Catholic Church.
Throughout history, various pilgrimage routes have led the faithful to St. Peter’s Basilica, with the Via Francigena being one of the most renowned. This ancient route, over 3,000 kilometers long, stretches through natural landscapes, small villages, historic sites, and places of worship, connecting Canterbury (England) to Rome via France and Switzerland. First documented in 990 AD, the Via Francigena offers pilgrims an immersive experience across four European countries.One of its most picturesque stops is San Gimignano, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, nestled between Siena and Florence.
In the Middle Ages, this town served as an essential rest stop for travelers on the Via Francigena, offering refuge and nourishment, including local culinary specialties—most notably, extra virgin olive oil.
The Frantoio di San Gimignano oil mill, owned by Oleificio Morettini, serves as both a production site and a cultural center, offering an interactive tour exploring the history of olive oil. For the entire year of 2025, this facility will also feature the “Jubilee Oil”, an official product of the Jubilee of Hope. Made from the finest cold-extracted olives, this oil is deeply connected to the pilgrimage experience, reflecting themes of contemplation, hospitality, and shared faith.