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Have you ever put a church on your Must-See list while on vacation? If you've been in Rome or Florence, where the stunning Basilicas, Cathedrals, and even small neighborhood churches are full of artistic masterpieces, the answer is likely "yes."
But sacred sites are found all over the world, sometimes in unexpected places, and exploring them when you travel can greatly enrich your experience.
At the crossroads of touring-the-Vatican-while-you're-in-Italy and joining a group pilgrimage with your church is a type of tourism known as Spiritual Travel or Faith-Based Travel.
Faith-based tourism is a form of leisure travel for individuals or small groups who want to explore the world's holy places, arts, and traditions.
These travel experiences are as unique as the people enjoying them and can include a range of spiritual and destination-based experiences. The result is a rich, meaningful, and memorable journey.
Here are a few ideas for ways to explore your faith when you travel:
Holy Land Cruise
A cruise takes you to the sacred and historical sites important to you, minus the logistical challenges. Choose an itinerary that includes the awe-inspiring destinations you want to explore (Holy Land + Egypt or Holy Land + Greek Isles, for example).
Then unpack once and immerse yourself in these sacred places while every detail is cared for. You select the excursions, and if you want to extend your time in Jerusalem, choose a mid-cruise overnight extension or a pre- or post-cruise visit.
Walk the Camino de Santiago
or the Way of St. James. Pilgrims have trod this network of ancient routes leading to Santiago de Compostela, Spain since the Middle Ages.
The magnificent Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela is believed to house the remains of the apostle. James. People of all backgrounds and beliefs walk or cycle the Camino these days, but 2021 (extended through 2022) is a Holy Year on the Camino for Catholics.
Several routes emanate from the city like spider's legs, but a popular option is to walk the famous last 100 km to Santiago to earn a Compostela (Pilgrim's Certificate).
Passion Plays
An epic Passion Play re-enacting the final days of Jesus Christ is staged in the tiny Bavarian village of Oberammergau once every ten years. Two thousand of the village's 5,000 residents participate in the production, which can feature as many as 900 people on stage at one time.
Because of the pandemic, organizers pushed off the 2020 production until 2022. At that time, travelers can include the performance in an Austria/Germany/Switzerland itinerary, which might also feature time in historic Vienna, a visit to the Benedictine Abbey in Melk, and an overnight in the mysterious Black Forest.
The small village of Sordevolo in Italy's scenic Piedmont region stages a Passion Play every five years. The cast of 400 locals performing 29 scenes paused its 2020 production until 2021. Performances will run from June through September.
Piedmont is tucked into Italy's mountainous northwest, near the French and Swiss borders. With the Alps as a backdrop and sparkling Lake Maggiore within reach, the region appeals to outdoor enthusiasts and is a superb food and wine destination.
Clusters of chapels, churches, and niches dot the landscapes of Piedmont and Lombardy. These structures are known as the Sacri Monti or Sacred Mountains, and they often contain paintings, frescoes, and sculptures that recall episodes from Scripture. These UNESCO World Heritage sites inspire worship and devotion among Europeans.
In nearby Turin, the Shroud of Turin is conserved in the Duomo of Torino. Though not available for public viewing, replicas and exhibits at the Most Holy Shroud Museum explain the shroud and its mysteries.
European Christmas Markets
Experience the deep-rooted holiday traditions of Europe while visiting some of the world's most storied cities, timeless cathedrals, and historic Christmas Markets.
A Rhine River Cruise enables travelers to take in several cities and festive markets on a single vacation. Winter markets originated in the 13th century as a way for villagers to purchase supplies at the onset of the lengthy cold season, but these days, the markets are decked in Christmas finery and showcase regional crafts, ornaments, and foods.
Every port offers a selection of excursions. Visit Strasbourg's Cathédrale Notre Dame with its famous astronomical clock before stopping at the oldest Christmas Market in France.
While in Gengenbach, marvel at the world's largest Advent calendar, where every evening the brightly lit windows of the town hall open to display a picture by a famous artist, such as Andy Warhol.
Do any of these unique itineraries appeal to you? Email me to schedule your complimentary consultation, and let's start planning!
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