Italy was the cradle for modern Western civilization: it stood as the nexus of philosophy, religion, trade, art and science. Ancient Italy’s impact upon our modern world is a profound one. Now, though we only glimpse remnants of the world’s largest empire; we can behold spectacles of great art in Florence, or realize the words of St. Francis through his order in Assisi, or discover innumerable surprises along the way. Italy is a premiere destination.
We invite you to come experience Italy uniquely on pilgrimage or mission. Given its expansive history, Italy possesses many stories and small, off-the-beaten-path places – and Wonder Voyage would like to show you the way. God is everywhere here, often in places unexpected and away from the tourist-heavy spaces. Come and see Italy through the eyes of St. Francis of Assisi.
Overview
- Worship with Franciscans in Assisi, taking in the serenity and rhythm of monastic life.
- Take time to pray in one of the beautiful chapels that populate the Italian landscape.
- Reflect upon the Body of Christ as you tour the Vatican.
- Taste some of the world’s greatest, original cuisine.
- Lose yourself in the fantastic art of the Italian Renaissance in Florence.
Itinerary
Every Wonder Voyage itinerary (mission trip and/or pilgrimage) is personalized to the desires, direction and personality of each group. This itinerary is only a description of the kind of journey we can create for your unique team.
- Day 1 – First Foot Forward
We have arrived in Rome. Our first leg of the journey will take us to the stunning city of Florence. We will head into the city, starting with her greatest visual icons, the Duomo and the old market. Tonight we will talk about how you begin a life of pilgrimage. - Day 2 – A Day of Masterpieces
We start our day taking in some of the most famous pieces of art in the world at the Accademia. What is a masterpiece and what does it mean that we are called Godʼs masterpiece? We then head south of the Arno to, what some have called, the most beautiful church in the world, Santo Spirito. - Day 3 – In the Steps
After a good breakfast and morning prayer, we will start on the road to our second location, Assisi. A casual trip through the countryside will have surprises in store. A day of relaxation, rest and reflection and a nice Umbrian meal out will help us to begin our journey into history that awaits our group of pilgrims. - Day 4 – A Monkʼs Life in a Day
Time to trace the steps of St. Francis. Today we learn the story of this unique and famous saint. We start at the church where St. Clare lived and where Francis received his vision to “rebuild the church.” Then it is on to the caves on the slope of this mountain where Francis and his followers established their first home. We then move on to the baroque church containing the simple cell where St. Francis died. - Day 5 – Walk the Talk
Today we head to the country for a few hours of hiking and partaking of the beautiful Italian countryside and some fresh air. Our leisurely pace will allow us to reflect on what it must have been like to walk from city to city and for Francis to share with his followers on the road. - Day 6 – Stroll Through Time
This morning we will take a stroll to the legendary site where St. Francis preached to the birds. We will visit the church where the Cappella del Croscifissco, the cross that spoke to St. Francis and led him into a life after Christ is displayed. We will end our walk at the Bascilica di San Francesco, which contains 28 scenes from the life of St. Francis and the crypt. - Day 7 – The Romansʼ Road
Today we head to Rome, once the center of humanity. After checking in at our final place of rest, we will do a bit of exploration to places such as the Treve Fountain and the Coliseum where we will hear the inspirational story of Telemachus. The afternoon will give the team free time to wander and ponder the streets of Rome. - Day 8 – From Catacombs to Cathedrals
On our last day in Rome we aim at two major objectives. In the morning we travel to the earliest roots of Christianity in the Roman Empire: the massive Catacombs where Christianity came alive in the dark shadows. In the afternoon we head to the crown of Christendom, The Vatican. - Day 9 – The Pilgrimage Continues
We have walked in the footsteps of St Francis, traveled through history, heard stories of inspiration while learning our own stories from each other. Our group now heads home with renewed faith, a sense of their past and starting a brand new pilgrimage home.
Legacy Location
Legacy in Italy
- *This is the base cost of the trip. Your cost may differ depending on housing, activities, etc.
