Rimini, a multifaceted city, turns out to be an ideal destination for a tourism that combines history, art and spirituality. On the occasion of the Jubilee, the city of Romagna invites visitors to discover its sacred heritage, following in the footsteps of Saint Francis and visiting the Jubilee Churches.
The Jubilee Churches of Rimini: a treasure of art and spirituality
On the occasion of the Jubilee, Rimini has identified a number of churches of special spiritual and artistic importance. Prominent among these is the Cathedral of St Francis, also known as the Malatesta Temple, a Renaissance masterpiece that houses works by Giotto and Piero della Francesca.
In addition to the Cathedral, Rimini offers pilgrims other places of worship of considerable importance:
The Sanctuary of Our Lady of Mercy in Santa Chiara, a place of deep Marian devotion, whose history is steeped in miracles and graces received.
The Monastery of the Nativity of Mary - Poor Clares, run by the order of the Poor Clares, a cloistered monastery offering an atmosphere of peace and contemplation.
The Sanctuary of Santa Maria delle Grazie, located on the Covignano hill, offering a panoramic view of the city and the sea.
Other churches to visit in Rimini are the Church of San Giuliano Martire, with its imposing Baroque façade in the heart of the ancient Borgo San Giuliano, and the Church of Sant'Agostino, which preserves a cycle of 14th-century frescoes of great value. There is also the Church of the Servants, a valuable Baroque building, which houses works by Antonio Trentanove and the Church of St John the Baptist, included in the itinerary of the seventeenth century in Rimini, which houses works by Antonio Trentanove, Cagnacci and Cosimo Piazza.
Saint Francis Walk: an experience of faith and discovery
Saint Francis Walk starts in Rimini, linking the city to La Verna, one of the most important places in Franciscan history because it was here that Francis received the stigmata in 1224.
The walk is a unique experience for those who wish to immerse themselves in the spirituality of the saint and in the beauty of the landscape. The route, about 100 km long, starts in Rimini and winds through medieval villages, hills and woods, offering breathtaking views and the opportunity to visit places of great historical and religious value.
In Rimini, the route begins at the Church of San Francesco, once part of a 13th-century Franciscan convent and now known as one of the masterpieces of the Renaissance, the Malatesta Temple. From here, the route continues inland, passing by the Convent of the Minor Friars in Verrucchio with the centuries-old cypress of St. Francis, to the monastery of St. Igne, built in 1244 in the wood at the foot of San Leo cliff, to the convent of the the Poor Clares (Clarisse) and Minor Friars in Sant’Agata Feltria and passing through other charming villages. Along the way, it is possible to visit hermitages and sanctuaries that bear witness to the presence of Saint Francis and his followers.
Saint Francis Walk from Rimini to La Verna has been recognised by the Italian Episcopal Conference (Cei) as one of the seven pilgrimage itineraries in the Jubilee year.
For information and contacts:
https://camminiemiliaromagna.it/en/cammino/14-cammino_s_francesco_rimini_laverna
Useful advice for the journey:
Plan your route: Saint Francis Walk is long and demanding, so it is important to plan your stages and book accommodation in advance.
Wear comfortable clothing and shoes: the route runs along dirt tracks and country roads, so it is essential to wear suitable clothing and shoes.
Carry a water bottle and a light rucksack: along the route, you may not find refreshment points, so it is advisable to carry water and food.
Respect the environment: Saint Francis Walk passes through protected natural areas, so it is important to respect the environment and not to leave rubbish.
Inform yourself on the opening hours of the Jubilee churches: some churches may have limited opening hours, so it is advisable to inform yourself in advance.
In 2025, Appennino Slow is proposing a 5-day group trek from Rimini to La Verna, following the steps of Saint Francis, who crossed these lands several times, alternating places of historical importance with naturalistic excellences. Here are the dates for the excursions: 7 to 12 April; 20 to 25 May; 3 to 8 June and 13 to 18 October.
For info: +39 379 1528959 info@appenninoslow.it
A complete tourist offer
Rimini offers pilgrims and tourists a wide range of services, including accommodation facilities, restaurants and information points. In addition, the city is easily accessible by train, bus and plane, making it an ideal destination for a weekend or longer holidays.
For information, accommodation, experiences and guided tours contact VisitRimini 0541.533999 info@visitrimini.com
The Tourist Information Office at Rimini railway station is also the starting point for St Francis' walk from Rimini to La Verna. Pilgrims who undertake the walk on foot or by bicycle can, in fact, collect their credential not only at the cathedral but also at the VisitRimini office inside the railway station and receive the first stamp certifying the start of the walk.