Pilgrims might be forgiven for thinking they would need a miracle to find an affordable room in Rome on the weekend of Pope John Paul II’s beatification ceremony, but the Vatican has revealed that this
might not be the case.

The St Peter's Square ceremony marks the last formal step before possible sainthood for the pontiff

The St Peter's Square ceremony marks the last formal step before possible sainthood for the pontiff

It has indicated that hotel prices in the Italian capital might tumble because predictions that up to a million people will descend on the city for the May 1 event will put off many holidaymakers who might have otherwise been interested in sampling the sights of the Eternal City.

Those who are not discouraged from visiting the city while the religious event is taking place might be turned off by reports suggesting that hotels are charging six times the normal price for a room, while the Vatican has warned about unscrupulous agents hawking services on the internet to procure “tickets” for the beatification.

The Vatican is reminding everyone that the St Peter’s Square ceremony, which marks the last formal step before possible sainthood for the pontiff, is free to attend, but is a first come, first served affair.

Meanwhile, the rector of Santa Susanna church, home to many expatriate Catholics, said he has received emails and phone calls from as far away as Australia since January, when Pope Benedict approved the miracle needed for his predecessor’s beatification. 

Britons who are interested in flying to Rome can do so from a number of airports, including Heathrow, Stansted and Gatwick.

Copyright © Press Association 2011

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