Papal Audience

If the Pope is in Rome, a papal audience is held every Wednesday at 11am in St Peter’s Square, allowing the chance for pilgrims and other visitors to see the Pope and receive his blessing. You can collect your tickets the day before the mass at the Papal Household from 3pm onwards, or you can pick them up on the day, any time between 7 – 10am. Although the Papal Audience isn’t scheduled to start until 9:30am, many people arrive early (up to 3 hours before) to get a good seat, you might want to consider doing the same for your visit.

This is a great way to experience the Vatican and the influence of the Pope, who conducts the mass in a series of small teachings, speaking as he does so in multiple languages to recognise those who have travelled far to see him. Following a united prayer and the Pope’s blessing, the crowds cheer and wave to the Pope, thanking him for his service. With much flag waving and singing, the service offers a truly uplifting atmosphere, for Christians and non-Christians alike. Check before you go whether the Pope is in Rome or not, as there may be times where he is away on a Pastoral Visit, in which case the Audiences will either not go ahead, or be held at Castel Gandolfo.

Is one of the festivals organized with many diverse and rich events. Not only that, the festival is also sacred to honor the Pope and attracts thousands of participants. It is for that reason that the Papal Audience festival is called one of the most famous in the Vatican.

Location: in St Peter’s Square.