In the aftermath of Pope Francis’s passing on April 21, the Foreign Office has issued urgent guidance for British tourists planning trips to Rome and the Vatican City. The advisory highlights the expected large crowds, heightened security measures, and stricter travel checks in the upcoming days.
An influx of mourners is anticipated to visit the Eternal City to pay tribute to the late pontiff, leading the Vatican to prepare for an unprecedented surge in visitors.
Travelers from the UK are advised to remain vigilant, adhere to local authorities’ instructions, and brace for potential disruptions, particularly in the vicinity of St. Peter’s Basilica and Vatican Square.
It is crucial for tourists to ensure their passports meet the necessary requirements before traveling to Italy, as the country strictly follows Schengen area regulations. Those with older passports, especially those renewed before October 2018, may face entry issues if their documents do not meet the specified criteria.
Furthermore, authorities caution against using passports that have been reported lost or stolen, even if recovered later, as it could result in entry denial. Travelers are urged to verify with their travel providers and renew passports if needed before embarking on their journeys.
Italian border officials are expected to enhance controls due to the heightened activity. Upon arrival, visitors may be subject to scrutiny, including checks on overstaying the 90-day visa-free limit for the Schengen area. Lack of entry or exit stamps in passports may necessitate providing proof of travel, such as boarding passes or tickets, for manual endorsement by officials.
While there is currently no specific threat to Italy, the Foreign Office has reissued a terrorism warning, emphasizing the possibility of terrorist incidents during significant events like a papal funeral. UK Counter Terrorism Policing has shared safety advice for traveling abroad, encouraging tourists to stay vigilant, report any suspicious activities, and stay updated through official channels throughout their visit.
The funeral service for the Pope is ongoing, commencing at 10 am on Saturday, April 26, under the guidance of Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, the dean of the College of Cardinals. The ceremony will see guests, dignitaries, clergy, and the public gather in and around St. Peter’s Square to bid farewell to Pope Francis.
The service will conclude with prayers for the late Pope and a final commendation, symbolizing the formal entrustment of the Pope to God, marking the start of a nine-day mourning period known as Novemdiales, with daily masses held in his honor.