The forthcoming Jubilee, starting on Christmas Eve (December 24) and lasting until January 6, 2026, is set to bring an unprecedented wave of visitors to Rome. Pope Francis will open the holy door in St. Peter’s Basilica to mark the beginning of the celebrations, and with over $5 billion in special funding for the city, Rome is undergoing massive upgrades in its tourist infrastructure. However, these preparations have raised concerns among locals and tourists as iconic sites across the city are being covered in scaffolding and construction materials.
While officials insist the disruptions are necessary for long-term improvements, the city’s ongoing transformation has caused frustration among visitors and residents alike. From the Trevi Fountain’s temporary pool to extensive work on metro stations and the Piazza Venezia, many of Rome’s historical landmarks are currently inaccessible, leading to social media posts mocking the situation. Some worry that critical projects, such as new pedestrian zones and metro expansions, won’t be finished in time for the Jubilee’s opening.
Rome’s busy streets and construction sites have made daily life chaotic for locals, with traffic disruptions being a particular point of concern. Despite this, many believe the work will ultimately benefit the city by providing modernized tourist facilities, and it’s clear that the Jubilee’s deadline is forcing the city to complete projects that might have otherwise taken much longer.
The city’s mayor, Roberto Gualtieri, remains optimistic, assuring that all necessary projects will be finished on time. “There will be new things to admire in Rome next year,” he said, despite the challenges.
The Jubilee is also set to bring attention beyond religious celebrations, with Pope Francis calling for forgiveness from wealthier nations to poorer ones and issuing pardons for individual prisoners. The Vatican is planning special events, including a focus on engaging younger generations with Catholic influences, and St. Peter’s Basilica has partnered with Microsoft to enhance visitor experiences with artificial intelligence.
While the city’s infrastructure might be under construction, it remains a top destination for both religious and non-religious tourists. Visitors will soon experience Rome’s treasures in their refreshed glory, with ongoing restoration works such as the Pantheon’s fountain bringing a glimpse of the city’s revitalized beauty.
