Italy
Rome
The capital city of Italy, located on the river Tiber has more than 2,500 years of history. The Vatican City is located in the centre of Rome and is the seat of the Roman Catholic Church. The Vatican City is a sovereign territory and the home of the Holy Father, Pope Benedict XVI. Today Rome is a modern cosmopolitan city and the third most visited tourist destination in Europe.
Assisi
Assisi is the birthplace of St. Francis, who founded the Franciscan religious order in 1208. St. Clare (Chiara d’Offreducci) a follower of St Francis and the founder of the Poor Clares was also born there. The Basilica of San Francesco d’Assisi (St. Francis) is a world heritage site and truly a magnificent building.
San Giovanni
A town in the Puglia region of Southern Italy which was the home of Saint Padre Pio of Pietrelcina, a Capuchin friar, priest and mystic known for his devotion to God. The shrine centres around Padre Pio’s tomb inside the Church of Our Lady of Grace (Santa Maria delle Grazie).
Padua
Situated an hour and thirty minutes from Verona in the North of Italy. It was the home of Saint Anthony for many years and a place where he preached on many occasions gathering large crowds. Whilst in Padua you will have the opportunity to visit the basilica of Saint Anthony and venerate his body. A visit to the Scrovegni Chapel to see the breath taking and priceless frescoes by Giotto is also included.
