An extraordinary path towards salvation - this is what the Holy Door represents

La Holy Door it is a tradition that dates back to the Middle Ages and has remained alive to this day in some cities around the world. It is a door that is opened only at certain times of the year and is considered a symbol of grace and forgiveness.

The most famous Holy Door is that of St. Peter's Basilica in the Vatican, which is only open during holidays jubilee years. During this period, the faithful from all over the world go on pilgrimage to Rome to cross it and obtain theplenary indulgence.

But the tradition of the Holy Door is not limited to St. Peter's Basilica. In many Italian cities and beyond, they exist churches and cathedrals which have a Holy Door, usually open only during holy years or on special occasions. For example, a Florence there is that of Duomo it is only open during Holy Week, while a Jerusalem the one of Jaffa in the Old Town it is only open on Palm Sunday. We also remember those of the basilicas of San John in Lateran e St. Paul Outside the Walls and Santa Maria Maggiore. 

What does it mean to cross the Holy Door

The ritual of passing through the Holy Door is considered a profound moment spirituality and rebirth. The faithful who perform this gesture are generally accompanied by priests who give them the blessing and guide them in prayer and in meditation. Passing through this door means symbolically leave your sins behind and suffering and embrace a new life in communion with God.

This practice carries with it a deep meaning and universal, which goes beyond religious and cultural differences. It is a moment of grace and forgiveness that unites all the faithful, regardless of their provenance or faith, in a gesture of communion and universal love.

In an era in which divisions and tensions seem increasingly marked, this tradition represents a'opportunity to find inner peace. Crossing the Holy Door is symbolically like opening a new chapter of one's life, full of hope, love and compassion.