From sorrow to spectacle: the impact of recent Vatican events on religious tourism

Travellers in their tens of thousands made their way to Rome to mourn the passing of one Pope and to rejoice at the election of another.

The passing of Pope Francis made a substantial impact on various sectors, particularly travel and tourism, during the eighteen days between the death of one Pontiff and the election of his successor.

In a previous feature, we noted the sheer volume of pilgrims who flocked to the Vatican during the similar transition that occurred in 2005 with the passing of Pope John Paul II and the election of Pope Benedict XVI. In that instance, four million people attended events in Rome.

Current statistics for the wake and funeral of Pope Francis show:

• 250,000 mourners from various countries paid their respects from April 23 to 25 as he lay in state at St Peter’s Basilica.
• Over 250,000 filled St Peter’s Square during his funeral, not counting foreign dignitaries and clergy.
• Nearly 150,000 more lined the streets to witness the funeral procession to his resting place at Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore.

Despite uncertainties regarding the origins of these visitors, both locals and tourists were drawn to Rome by the profound human desire to be part of a significant moment.

The Concept of Papal Pilgrimages

Given Pope Francis’s global impact, it’s unsurprising that many are keen to visit the places that shaped his life. Tour operators focusing on pilgrimages reported a considerable increase in interest toward his birth city, Buenos Aires, Argentina.

Enrique Espinel of Civitatis remarked: “Since the Pope’s health began to decline, we saw a steady rise in interest. What used to be a monthly occurrence has now become daily. Our new Free Tour del Papa bookings have increased by over 100% recently.”

Moreover, interest has surged in tours around the Vatican, allowing travelers to connect with physical sites that reflect Pope Francis’s impactful legacy.

A New Pope…and a Potential New Pilgrimage

On May 8, white smoke arose from the Sistine Chapel chimney, signifying the election of Pope Leo XIV. Current tourism patterns suggest increased interest in Peru, where Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost spent over thirty years in ministry.

Curiosity about Chicago, the new Pope’s hometown, also drives pilgrims, eager to learn more about the man emerging as a central figure in religious history. Despite challenges within the U.S. regarding foreign tourism, this religious tourism presents a unique opportunity for showcasing positive aspects from unexpected settings.