Seven Pilgrim Churches of Rome
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The Seven Pilgrim Churches of Rome are seven churches in Rome, which are visited by pilgrims in order to gain indulgences. The churches include the four patriarchal basilicas:
They also include three minor basilicas:
- San Lorenzo fuori le mura
- Santa Croce in Gerusalemme
- Santuario della Madonna del Divino Amore
The last of these was added by Pope John Paul II for the Great Jubilee of 2000, replacing San Sebastiano fuori le mura. However, many pilgrims still prefer the pre-2000 seven basilicas and so also attend St. Sebastian's in addition to the ones required for the indulgence.
During Holy Years, indulgences are granted to those who visit certain churches. In Rome, there are seven such churches. We owe the number to St Philip Neri, who devoted much of his time to helping pilgrims and introduced a list of seven basilicas.
