Day 1: USA
Depart on an overnight flight to Malta.
Day 2: Malta
Welcome to the Mediterranean island of Malta, where the Apostle Paul made an unexpected visit during his voyage to Rome & performed healing miracles on the islanders through the Spirit of God. A guide will greet you upon arrival. Afterward, we head for the capital city, Valletta, to view “The Malta Experience”, a film on the island’s history.
Day 3: Mdina – Mosta – Rabat – Mdina
Enjoy the beautiful scenery of the Mediterranean Sea at St. Paul’s Bay & see the site of St. Paul’s shipwreck. Be amazed at the grandeur of the 19th century Rotunda of Mosta, a marvelous display of Maltese architecture. Tour the famous St. Paul’s Church, the 17th century place of worship in the village of Rabat, built atop the Apostle Pauls’ grotto. Return to Mdina & discover ancient Roman history at the Roman Domus, a museum of Roman-era housing. Examine awe-inspiring frescoes depicting Paul’s shipwreck during a walking tour of St. Paul’s Cathedral.
Day 4: Valetta
Glorify the savior this morning as we worship His Majesty at St. Paul’s Anglican Cathedral, a neo-classical limestone gem. This afternoon, enjoy the lovely city of Valetta at your leisure.
Day 5: Valetta – Catania – Siracusa – Taormina
Travel by air to Catania, Sicily. Upon arrival, we head for the city of Siracusa. Enjoy a guided tour of the Sicilian city where St. Paul rested for three days during his voyage. Afterward, we continue to Taormina to enjoy the afternoon at ease.
Day 6: Taormina – Catania – Vietri – Positano
Rise early this morning to travel to Catania. Here we embark on a voyage by ferry to cross the Straits of Messina. While heading north along Italy’s western coast, look forward to visiting the local pottery shops in the town of Vietri. Relax at your accommodation this evening in Positano, today’s final destination.
Day 7: Herculaneum – Naples – Pozzuoli – Gaeta
Set off on a cultural, historic, & scenic adventure today. Highlights include visits to Naples, home to 448 churches; Herculaneum, present day archaeological site of the ancient Roman town destroyed by lava; Pozzuoli, one of the Apostle Paul’s rest stops during his voyage; & Gaeta, one of Italy’s coastal cities blossoming with nature’s splendor.
Day 8: San Vincenzo
Leave Gaeta for a day excursion to San Vincenzo. Delight in the fresh air of the Abruzzo Mountains & encounter 9th century Europe at the Abbey of San Vincenzo al Volturno.
Day 9: Gaeta
Begin exploring the beautiful city of Gaeta today as you head for the top of Monte Orlando to see a first century B.C. mausoleum. Feel the passion of Christ on “Montagna Spaccata”, the once whole mountain that split into two when Jesus died on the cross, located within the Sanctuary of Holy Trinity monastery complex. Afterward, enter the medieval city of Gaeta. Visit the 14th century Church of the Holy Annunciation, which houses the Golden Chapel, displaying a luxuriously striking décor of golden framed artwork, & the Cathedral of Assunta e Sant’Erasmo, which houses the remains of the Christian martyr St. Erasmus. Enjoy your afternoon at leisure.
Day 10: Rome
Be inspired to spread the word of God as you travel along the Appian Way towards Paul’s final destination, Rome. Look forward to several exciting stops on the way to the “Eternal City”. See the ruins of an ancient Roman amphitheater in Minturno & visit Forum Appii & Tres Tabernae, resting places of the Apostle Paul & other travelers in the ancient Roman era. Tour the Papal Basilica of St. Paul Outside the Walls, significant for housing the tomb of St. Paul, its 13th century cloister of its adjoining monastery, and the catacombs of San Sebastiano. Relax upon arrival in Rome. Enjoy dinner & an overnight stay.
Day 11: Rome
After sailing the seas & encountering history along the way, discover the Apostle Paul’s highly sought destination. The morning begins with prayer at St. Paul’s Within the Walls, the historic Episcopal church in Rome. Afterward, visit Vatican City, home to the largest church in the world & the world famous Vatican Museums. See, experience, or savor one of the many wonders of Rome as you spend the remainder of the day at leisure.
Day 12: Rome – USA
Transfer to the airport & board your flight home.