Discover Catholic Saints and the Sacred Places They Touched
Learn about the lives of Catholic saints, their legacies, and the holy places where they walked. Encounter stories of grace, virtue, and purpose.
Be Inspired with Saintly Ways — Stories & Reflections
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SaintlyWays invites you to explore the lives of holy men and women through the sacred places that shaped them. From the basilicas of Europe to the mission trails of Asia, uncover the stories, traditions, and pilgrimage routes of Catholic saints. Browse our growing directory of saints, pilgrimage destinations, and sacred terms in our Catholic glossary to deepen your faith journey.
Saints of FEBRUARY
Italy | Laity
St. Jerome Emiliani was a military leader who experienced a profound conversion and dedicated his life to the care of orphans and the poor. He founded the Somaschi Fathers, an order dedicated to the education and care of orphans.
Feb 8
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Italy | Nun
St. Catherine de Ricci was a Dominican nun and mystic known for her visions and dedication to the poor.
Feb 13
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Portugal | Laity
St. Jacinta Marto was one of the three shepherd children who received the apparitions of the Virgin Mary at Fatima.
Feb 20
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Turkey | Priest
St. Polycarp was a disciple of St. John the Apostle and is one of the Apostolic Fathers. He was martyred for his faith and is known for his steadfastness in the face of persecution.
Feb 23
Learn MoreFeatured Pilgrimage Sites
Abbaye Blanche
France
12th-century Cistercian women's abbey in Mortain, showcasing Romanesque architecture and serene setting.
Abbaye aux Dames de Caen
France
Hilltop 11th-century abbey with an arcaded courtyard, housing Queen Mathilda's tomb.
Abbey of Montecassino
Italy
Mountaintop abbey with an ornate cathedral, an elegant Renaissance cloister with views & a museum.
Aziz Polikarp's Church
Türkiye
Early Christian church in Izmir, possibly pre-4th century, rebuilt after 1788 earthquake, purported burial site of Saint Polycarp.
Basilica Cattedrale di Sant'Agata
Italy
Prominent baroque cathedral known for its columned facade, domed roof, frescoes & paintings.
Basilica di San Valentino
Italy
17th-century Baroque basilica in Terni, housing Saint Valentine's relics; patron saint of love.
Basilica di Sant'Apollinare alle Terme
Italy
Ancient Roman basilica, repurposed church, blending architectural styles across centuries.
Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary of Fatima
Portugal
Landmark church & pilgrim site devoted to the Virgin Mary with a tower & intricate reliefs.
Basilica of Saint Margaret of Cortona
Italy
Enduring Catholic church with an opulent interior, a 17th-century bell tower & countryside views.
Basilica of Santa Maria in Trastevere
Italy
Grand Catholic church known for its 12th-century mosaics & lavish interior with 22 Roman columns.
Glossary Term of the Day
Shrine
In Catholic Church architecture, a shrine is a significant architectural element denoting a sacred space dedicated to a particular saint, image, or relic. Its liturgical function centers on veneration and prayer, often involving specific rituals. Typically located within the church, sometimes in a chapel or dedicated alcove, its position emphasizes its importance within the overall structure. Within the Catholic tradition, the shrine's design and placement symbolically represent a focus point for devotion, a tangible manifestation of faith, and a conduit to divine grace. It serves as a visual and spiritual anchor within the church's overall design.
See More Glossary Terms »Plan Your Pilgrimage
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