Jubilee: In the footsteps of Maximilian Kolbe in Rome

This jubilee year, Rome is more than ever a must-visit destination for Catholic pilgrims from around the world. The holy city is filled with shrines and sites that reflect the faith and martyrdom of many great saints, especially from the early Christian era.

However, they are not the only ones we should remember. Among the inspiring figures to explore or rediscover is St. Maximilian Kolbe (1894-1941), who holds a special place in this narrative. A martyr of charity at Auschwitz, this Polish Franciscan left a lasting legacy in Rome, where he studied, prayed, and founded a Marian movement that continues to inspire thousands of believers. Following in his footsteps in the Holy City is an invitation to embark on a journey of faith, dedication, and mission.

Arriving in Rome in 1912, Rajmund Kolbe, who would later take the name Maximilian upon joining the Conventual Franciscans, continued his studies at the International Seraphic College, now located on Via San Teodoro. There, he deepened his understanding of philosophy and theology while developing his Marian spirituality.

Part of the college has since been converted into a hotel, but its spirit remains very much alive. Stepping into the Kolbe Hotel Rome is like discovering a unique place where Maximilian Kolbe's brilliant idea was born: to establish an organization dedicated to the conversion and sanctification of all people through unconditional devotion to the Virgin Mary.

Maximilian wanted to entrust the challenging beginnings of the Militia of the Immaculata to the Virgin of the Miracle. This makes sense because, initially, the Militia's main focus was on praying to the Virgin and distributing Miraculous Medals. Later on, he also realized that this organization could spread the Gospel through the media.

Additionally, the Kolbe Hotel is a great spot for history and culture enthusiasts. Located right next to the Roman Forum, the Circus Maximus, and the Colosseum, it offers visitors easy access to explore Rome. The quality of the rooms, along with its stunning garden, will surely appeal to pilgrims looking for tranquility while balancing their spiritual journey with tourism.

Nestled at the foot of Palatine Hill, the Kolbe Hotel Rome beautifully blends ancient history with contemporary luxury. Housed in a historic building dating back to 1625, this hotel offers a truly unique experience.

While staying at the Kolbe Hotel Rome, be sure to ask about visiting the old study room, which was likely once a refectory and has now been transformed into an exhibition space honoring the life of Maximilian Kolbe. Through a collection of memorabilia and artifacts, you can quickly grasp the profound impact of Maximilian Kolbe's life. 

This exhibition space is located in the nearby Franciscan convent, where you can also see the chapel where Kolbe often prayed, as well as the saint’s cell, meticulously recreated as it was during his time in Rome.

Not far from the Kolbe Hotel Rome is the Pontifical Gregorian University, commonly known as the Gregorian. It’s here that Maximilian Kolbe earned two doctorates, one in theology and the other in philosophy, highlighting the depth of his intellectual and religious commitment. 

Pilgrims should also take a moment to stop at the Sant’Andrea della Valle church, where Maximilian Kolbe was ordained a priest on November 29, 1918. This beautiful Baroque church, located in the heart of Rome, serves as a perfect place for prayer and reflection for those seeking to contemplate their call to holiness. 

Maximilian Kolbe described that day as follows:

In 1917, in Rome, Father Kolbe established the Militia of the Immaculata (Militia Immaculatae), a Marian movement focused on conversion and evangelization through the intercession of the Virgin Mary. The Sant’Andrea delle Fratte Basilica, where he often prayed and celebrated his first Mass, is a significant site for this spiritual commitment. This church, known for the appearance of the Virgin to Alphonse Ratisbonne in 1842, perfectly embodies the Marian spirit that inspired Kolbe.

The Basilica of San Bartolomeo all'Isola, located on Tiber Island, holds significant historical and spiritual importance, especially because of the relics it houses. Among these relics are those of St. Maximilian Kolbe, which were placed there on April 13, 2015. The relics of St. Maximilian Kolbe at San Bartolomeo all'Isola draw many pilgrims and faithful who come to honor his memory and seek inspiration from his sacrifice. 

Walking in the footsteps of Maximilian Kolbe in Rome is a journey into the life of a man whose faith overcame the toughest challenges. From his years of study to the founding of his Marian movement, each phase of his journey encourages us to reflect on Christian commitment. Even today, his message of love and selflessness echoes through the churches, universities, and the convent-turned-hotel that bear witness to his time in the Eternal City.