COVID-19 Report: Rome and the Vatican during Holy Week

Aired on April 8, 2020

For the Vatican and the City of Rome, Holy Week has been strikingly different this year. The bustling crowds that usually fill St. Peter’s Square have been absent due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Yet, despite the absence of visitors, the Pope will still celebrate all Holy Week services, albeit without an audience. While the Vatican’s offices remain open, strict social distancing measures are in place, even as confirmed coronavirus cases have been reported.

Voice of America reporter Sabina Castelfranco has been on the ground, covering the impact of the coronavirus pandemic on Italy and the Vatican. Joining us from Rome, Sabina provides exclusive insights into the current situation.

In this report, Sabina explains why Italy became the first European country severely affected by COVID-19 and how the virus spread so rapidly. She also sheds light on the measures being taken to protect Pope Francis after members of the Vatican tested positive for the virus. Additionally, Sabina shares how Holy Week celebrations will be uniquely observed this year, adapting to the restrictions imposed by the pandemic.

For those looking to participate virtually, all Holy Week events will be streamed live on the Vatican News Media channel.

For more in-depth stories and updates on the global impact of COVID-19, visit World Footprints.

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Hashtags: #COVID19Report #RomeVatican #HolyWeek2020 #WorldFootprints #SabinaCastelfranco #VaticanNews #ItalyCOVID19 #PopeFrancis #GlobalPandemic #HolyWeekCelebrations

Explore the impact of COVID-19 on Rome and the Vatican during Holy Week with exclusive insights from Sabina Castelfranco on World Footprints. Sign up for our newsletter and follow us on social media for the latest updates and travel inspiration.

 

Trevi Fountain - Rome

Trevi Fountain – Rome

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Video Author

  • Tonya Headshot cropped e1508798142913

    Tonya Fitzpatrick, Esq., is a co-founder of World Footprints, a social impact travel media company that she runs with her husband, Ian. She is an award-winning journalist, global public speaker, and three-time TEDx presenter who has written for several prominent publications including the Miami Herald, AAA World, The Lens and Island Soul. Recognized as Black Travel Journalists of the Year alongside Ian, Tonya serves on several travel industry boards, including SATW, The Explorers Club (DC chapter), NATJA, and JourneyWoman. She has also been appointed to the Maryland Tourism Development Board by Governor Wes Moore.