Premier Giorgia Meloni inaugurated the pedestrianised Piazza Pia, a flagship project for the 2025 Jubilee of the Catholic Church. Located near the River Tiber, the square links Castel Sant’Angelo to Via della Conciliazione and St Peter’s Square.
The €85 million project, completed in 450 days, includes a new tunnel connecting to an existing underpass, easing traffic congestion in the Prati area. Italian road infrastructure company Anas collaborated with state, municipal, Vatican, and heritage authorities to complete the work.
Meloni highlighted the government’s efficiency, stating, “The ‘Jubilee method’ shows that things can be done well and quickly in Italy.” She praised the taskforce at her office for resolving obstacles in real time, adding, “This method reminds us that public administration can surprise us when it wants to.”
Deputy Premier Matteo Salvini also expressed pride in the project. “I saw Italian and foreign young people working together – a true example of integration,” said Salvini. “This shows that, when political, social, and trade union forces collaborate, Italy is second to none.”
Rome Mayor Roberto Gualtieri celebrated the project’s timely completion despite challenges, including the discovery of ancient Roman ruins linked to Emperor Caligula. “Few believed in it, but we did it,” said Gualtieri, calling the square the “symbol” of Jubilee Year efforts.
The project is part of a broader programme to prepare Rome for the Jubilee Year, expected to draw over 32 million pilgrims and tourists. Other completed projects include the redevelopment of Piazza Risorgimento and Via Ottaviano. Upcoming openings include Piazza San Giovanni on 28 December and Piazzale dei Cinquecento at Termini Station on 30 December.
The Jubilee Year officially begins on Christmas Eve when Pope Francis opens the Holy Door at St Peter’s Basilica, marking the start of this significant religious event.
