Where are the 7 holy doors located?

Where Are the Seven Holy Doors?

During a Holy Year in the Catholic Church, pilgrims travel from around the world to pass through the sacred Holy Doors—powerful symbols of spiritual passage and divine mercy. While the tradition features seven designated Holy Doors, four are located in Rome’s major basilicas, all recognized by the Holy See as canonically significant.

The most well-known is the Holy Door at Saint Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City, solemnly opened by the Pope at the start of each Jubilee Year. This monumental rite marks the beginning of a time of grace and reconciliation for millions.

In addition to St. Peter’s, three other Roman basilicas hold this sacred privilege: the Archbasilica of St. John Lateran, the cathedral of the Bishop of Rome and considered the "mother church" of Catholicism; the Basilica of Saint Mary Major, also known as Santa Maria Maggiore, a sanctuary of deep Marian devotion; and the Basilica of Saint Paul Outside the Walls, built over the tomb of St. Paul himself.

These four Roman basilicas are known as the "Papal Basilicas," each bearing a Holy Door that is ceremonially sealed and only opened during Jubilee Years. While the term "seven Holy Doors" is sometimes mentioned, the other three are not universally fixed and may vary by diocese or special papal designation during extraordinary Jubilees—such as in local cathedrals around the world.

Nonetheless, the spiritual heart of the tradition remains in Rome. For pilgrims, passing through a Holy Door is more than ritual—it’s an act of penance, hope, and renewal, echoing Christ’s words: “I am the door. If anyone enters by me, he will be saved” (John 10:9). The journey to these sacred thresholds continues to inspire faith across generations.