Spain: Pilgrimage and Retreat with Father Murr

Carmona, Seville, Spain

It
60 reviews
Oct 24 - 31, 2024
Group size: 12 - 24
Spain: Pilgrimage and Retreat with Father Murr
Carmona, Seville, Spain

60 reviews

Oct 24 - 31, 2024
Group size: 12 - 24

About this trip

Click Here to view our 2-page flyer 

Click Here for a video on this pilgrimage


Come with us on this unique pilgrimage and retreat to renew your spirit this autumn. Not only will you pilgrimage through Southern Spain, a beautiful land where the Catholic Church's rich 2,000-year history comes alive, but also you will partake in a retreat led by Father Charles T. Murr, a well-known Catholic priest who is a best-selling author, philosopher, theologian, trained psychologist and pastor of souls. 


(Go to Urbi et Orbi Communications' YouTube channel to get a sense of Father Murr's love of Christ, intellect, joy and great sense of humor.  Click here for a playlist of his videos.)


For the entirety of our pilgrimage and retreat, you will spend seven (7) nights in Carmona, Spain at the Convento Madre de Dios de Carmona, a convent hotel that has been home to Dominican nuns since 1515. In this convent, Father Murr will lead our retreat and celebrate Mass.  During our days together, we also will journey to some of the most beautiful towns in all of Andalusia, Spain:


Carmona is a town where you will feel, breathe and experience its true essence as you walk along the streets. At each turn, you will be transported to a different period - from the city's Neolithic origins, to Julius Caesar’s revolt in Rome in 69 B.C., to the Christian-Muslim struggle after the Muslim invasion in the 700s. 


Córdoba was once the premier city of the Western World, the greatest metropolis west of Constantinople, and the seat of Europe's first university.  All agree that it is one of the most beautiful cities in the world!


Ronda is one of the most beautiful (and visited!) villages in Andalusia. This village, located on a rocky promontory offers magnificent panoramas over the whole valley. Divided in 2 by the Guadalevin river, it’s famous for the Puente Nuevo, the bridge linking the 2 sides of the 100m deep El Tajo Canyon.


Setenil de las Bodegas  is a very unusual village to see and discover. It is one of the most beautiful villages in Spain. It is atypical because many of the houses are troglodyte. They are built from caves or under rocky overhangs. It seems that this little village made up of natural caves, has been inhabited for more than six thousand years. Its particular geography made Setenil a strong place and particularly difficult to conquer. It took 7 sieges of the city before the Catholic kings were victorious and took Setenil. The last, victorious attack took place on 21 September 1484. The city fell into the hands of the Catholic kings following an assault by troops led by Rodrigo Ponce de León, Duke of Cadiz. Legend has it that the name Setenil comes from the translation of the Latin words “Septem Nihil” which means “seven times nothing”. The full name, on the other hand, dates from the 15th century. This was the period when new Christians settled here. In addition to preserving the olive and almond fields, they introduced vines. The caves that were used to preserve the wine naturally gave the name of “Bodegas”.


Seville was founded as a Roman city and is now home to three UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and is bursting with antique charm. The Alcazar palace complex is a stunning collage of architectural styles, and the Cathedral is famed for its beauty and its status as the burial site of Christopher Columbus.


The people, the history, and the traditions of these towns will give richness, beauty and context to the talks of our retreat.  


This retreat led by Father Murr will be a profound spiritual journey.  Father Murr's steadfast faith, his wide learning, and his unfailing humor will make this retreat engaging, spirit-filled and Christ-centered. 


Although Mass will be offered daily, we can not guarantee that the Traditional Latin Mass will be celebrated every day.


Experience this once-in-a-lifetime Pilgrimage and Retreat and grow closer to Christ. 



Optional Add-On: 3 nights in Madrid 


October 31, 2024 - November 3, 2024 — 3 Nights at a 4 star hotel in the heart of Madrid


Damian Migallo will be your tour guide and will be with you the entire time during your stay in  Madrid. Damian will also be the guide on the pilgrimage and retreat with Fr. Murr (and with you for the entire retreat).  He lives in Madrid and speaks fluent Spanish.  


These days in Madrid will be special as the Spaniards celebrate All Saints Day and All Souls Day.  All Saints Day is a national holiday.  There will be many festivities remembering the saints and the "day of the dead".  These are spiritual celebrations unlike the Halloween celebrations in other countries. 


The following are some highlights of your days in Madrid:  

* The Cathedral of the Almudena and adjoining Royal Palace

* The Royal Basilica of San Francisco el Grande

* The San Isidro Museum

* Plaza Mayor

* The Pontifical Basilica of San Miguel, Plaza de la Villa and Mercado de San Miguel

* Puerta del Sol, Calle Preciados, Callao and Gran Via (landmarks, restaurant and shopping area)

* El Prado Art Gallery and the Retiro Park


The advantage of this small group with Damian as your private guide is that as time allows, places you see or things you do can be added to meet your interests. Be aware that there will be walking involved on this add-on to Madrid.  

Cost for Madrid Add-On  (minimum 6 participants)

$1,999 for double occupancy (Choose "2" when booking this options)

$2,499 for single occupancy.  

Included

3 nights in a four star hotel

3 breakfasts

Train ticket from Seville to Madrid

private guide the entire time in Madrid

Not Included

3 lunches 

3 dinners dinner 

Departure transfer to the Madrid airport

Click Here to view our 2-page flyer (This 2 page flyer is more concise than the brochure you can download on the right)

Why Choose ITV Pilgrimages?

With more than 30 years of publishing Inside the Vatican magazine, we have colleagues and friends all over the world — and many of them have become part of our Pilgrimage family. Designing an Inside the Vatican pilgrimage begins with a theme or a particular country; then we weave in encounters with real people who live and work there, as well as those with expert knowledge in its historical and spiritual perspectives. Each day we will have the opportunity to attend Mass. Our itineraries include both world-renowned and little-known places, and every detail has been arranged to create a truly unique experience; we do not have cookie-cutter pilgrimages! Whether you choose one of our intimate-sized Signature Pilgrimages,  or a Classic Pilgrimage with budget-friendly pricing, we work hard to ensure that every pilgrimage is a moving experience, an authentic spiritual journey for each pilgrim.

Questions or Booking Assistance

Call our U.S. Office: +1.202.536.4555  Monday - Friday 9:00 am - 5:00 pm ET. If you call after hours, leave a message. You can email our office: [email protected]

Terms and Conditions

Before you book your trip with us, please read carefully our Terms and Conditions

Discount Codes

Call us to inquire about any applicable discounts: U.S. Office +1 202.536.4555  Monday - Friday 9:00 am - 5:00 pm ET. You can email our office: [email protected]

What’s included

  • Meals
    Seven (7) breakfasts, four (4) lunches, and seven (7) dinners are included. On your own meals: two (2) lunches.
  • Hotels
    Seven (7) nights
  • Private Motor Coach
    Private motor coach bus and all group transfers are included.
  • Taxes and Fees
    All local taxes are included.
  • Entrance Fees
    All entrance fees are included.
  • Arrival Group Transfer
    There will be a group transfer from Seville Airport (SVQ) to the hotel.
  • Departure Group Transfer
    There will be a group transfer to Seville Airport (SVQ) from the hotel.

What’s not included

  • Airfare
    Airfare to and from Spain
  • Gratuities
    Gratuities payable to the bus driver.
  • Individual Transfers
    Airport transfers for participants not arriving or departing within specified time frames to participate in the group transfers.
  • Meals
    Meals not specifically identified: two (2) lunches.
  • Other Personal Expenses
    Other personal expenses including, but not limited to, laundry services, minibar in hotel rooms, et cetera.
  • Other
    Items not specifically mentioned in the pilgrimage description.

Available Packages

Land Only: Double Room

Price is per person for double room occupancy (2 people per room). Airfare is not included. If you are paying for both participants who are in the double room,  select "2" as the quantity to be able to add both names in the reservation. 

$3,700
Deposit: $750
Land Only: Single Room

Price is per person for a single occupancy room. Airfare is not included. 

$4,200
Deposit: $750

Available Add-Ons

Madrid Add-On (Double Occupancy)
$1,999

Price is per person for double room occupancy (2 people per room).   Select "2" when booking to pay for both participants. 

Madrid Add-On (Single Occupancy)
$2,499

Price is per person for a single occupancy room.



Itinerary

Day 1: THU Oct 24, 2024
Carmona: Welcome Dinner and Mass with Father Murr

We will transfer from the Seville airport to Carmona, Spain where we will stay in the Convento Madres de Dios. This convent provides a unique atmosphere as it is located in the heart of old Carmona, just off the Plaza San Fernando. 


Carmona is a town where you will feel, breathe and experience its true essence as you walk along the streets. At each turn, you will be transported to a different period - from the city's Neolithic origins, to Julius Caesar’s revolt in Rome in 69 B.C., to the Christian-Muslim struggle after the Muslim invasion in the 700s. This charming, small walled city, will be our home for the next 7 nights. 


After settling into our rooms, we will gather for a welcome Mass and dinner.


Overnight in Carmona. Dinner is included.

Your Organizer


It
Inside the Vatican Pilgrimages
60 reviews
With more than 30 years of publishing Inside the Vatican magazine, we have colleagues and friends all over the world — and many of them have become part of our Pilgrimage family. Designing an Inside the Vatican pilgrimage begins with a theme or a particular country; then we weave in encounters with real people who live and work there, as well as those with expert knowledge in its historical and spiritual perspectives. Every detail has been arranged to create a unique experience; an authentic spiritual journey for each pilgrim.

Reviews

This trip was truly one of a kind—an experience that overwhelmed the senses in the best possible way. We had the privilege of exploring some of the most beautiful places in Europe, while also being deeply nourished spiritually. I feel incredibly blessed to have taken part in this extraordinary retreat alongside Fr. Blount and Dr. Christine Mugridge. They ministered to us with such love, patience, and remarkable generosity. We can only thank God for the charisms He bestows on the Church through His faithful servants. The expert team from Inside the Vatican was simply outstanding. Everything was organized so thoughtfully, and the entire journey unfolded seamlessly. Special thanks to Deborah, Robert, and Dian for guiding us with such grace. This retreat was truly a spiritual feast for all of us pilgrims. Many of us arrived seeking answers, healing, or a fresh outpouring of the Holy Spirit—and I believe we each received more than we could have imagined. The staff at the Magnificat Center in Medjugorje and the monastery on the island of Badija were exceptionally kind and gracious. They went above and beyond to make us feel welcome and at home. I’ll always be grateful for the balance of prayer, reflection, and just the right amount of free time for rest or sightseeing. Staying at the Magnificat Center was a joy—the accommodations were excellent, and the atmosphere was peaceful and inspiring. One of the most moving experiences was meeting the visionary Marija and attending one of her apparitions. Participating in Mass at St. James’s Church was another profound highlight. I will never forget the sacred time spent in Medjugorje and on the beautiful island of Badija. The warmth and attentiveness of the staff, the deep spiritual encounters, and the fellowship we shared have left an indelible mark on my heart.
By Nashwa R for Fr. Blount's Mercy June Pilgrimage: Medjugorje & Retreat Badija Island on Jun 29, 2025
This Pilgrimage/Retreat was beyond anything I could have imagined it to be. The entire staff of Inside the Vatican worked seamlessly together to ensure everything went smoothly. They were constantly looking out for us to ensure that we could participate in all opportunities. Medugorje is truly where heaven meets earth. Badija was nothing short of a miracle. The location, the island, the monastery and the beautiful staff…all precious gifts from Our Lord. Fr Blount taught and healed us and brought us closer to the Lord. His gifts are amazing. A huge thank you to Christine for patiently meeting and guiding with each of us. Her insight and words of encouragement were truly healing. I am already looking at another pilgrimage with Inside the Vatican. Thank you all from the bottom of my heart. Suzanne Gilbert, Az
By Suzanne S for Fr. Blount's Mercy June Pilgrimage: Medjugorje & Retreat Badija Island on Jun 26, 2025
This trip exceeded my hopes and expectations! The ITV team gathers the most talented people to create an exceptional experience! I loved every day but my favorite was having mass with Fr. Blount. I will emerge a better Christian by implementing what I learned on this pilgrimage. I also made new friends. The trip was full of blessings! Thank-you so much, Karin C.
By Karin C for Fr. Blount's Mercy June Pilgrimage: Medjugorje & Retreat Badija Island on Jun 18, 2025
It was a quality experience; seeing amazing places, meeting wonderful people, and hearing amazing insight from Robert Moynihan. Having the wonderful opportunity to see Pope Leo, not once, but 3 times in 2 days was simply unforgettable! I have an amazing set of pictures to remember the trip. That being said; a few suggestions to consider for future pilgrimages. At times, coordination and communication was lacking, esp. when we were in Rome. Although they have their drawbacks, I would strongly suggest the use of mobile receivers; ie: the receiver you hang around your neck and use with one or two earpieces. Esp. in environments where there are many other people and the group is spread out (ex. St Peter's), those are the only reliable way to communicate with everyone. Also, use of a small bus for a group of this size is a mistake. I understand that large buses are unable to travel in some of the areas we visited; in that case, obtain two buses. My wife and I did the back seat for one day and that experience was simply horrible. I realize that this was not a "tourist" trip, but I was sorely disappointed that we did not visit the Sistine Chapel, and would have liked to see some of the historical sites in Rome. They add context to the spiritual experience. Our fellow pilgrims were amazing people, and we hope to stay in touch with them in the future.
By Ronald W for Italy: Journey Towards the Face of Christ 2025 on Jun 14, 2025
Everything about the trip was wonderful. Fellow pilgrims were great. Accommodations were terrific. Food was great.
By Jeffrey D for Italy: Journey Towards the Face of Christ 2025 on Jun 12, 2025
Show More Reviews

References

I just returned from the amazing pilgrimage in Italy! It truly was a “Journey Toward the Face of Christ” in the heart of Italy! Whether visiting the sacred sites in Assisi; Lanciano and the Eucharistic Miracle; the Holy Face relic in Manoppello; or in an outdoor procession with the Benedictine Monks in Norcia; or in the face of Pope Leo XIV at Mass and in the Vatican Gardens, I kept saying to myself “it doesn’t get better than this!” Dr Moynihan, Deb and Brankica planned for and provided every opportunity for us to experience the best! We were blest with their knowledge and kindness. We had plenty of opportunity to pray. The accommodations were very comfortable, the food delicious, and the fellowship flowed! I am already looking forward to my next pilgrimage with them! Thank you for sharing your gifts and God bless you!
By M Patricia L on 10 Jun, 2025
This was a most holy pilgrimage, I can’t even believe all the sacred things we experienced and touched, not to mention the places and saints we encountered. God blessed our travels the whole time. I’m still in awe as I look back and think to myself, “Oh yeah, we did that too, and how special was that!” For my husband and myself it was the trip of a lifetime, and it will never be forgotten. Thank you Robert, Deb and Brankiva!!! Cheryl
By Cheryl L on 08 Jun, 2025
The trip was great! The Vatican Pilgrimages staff that accompanied us were great! Thank you Deborah Tomlinson! You are so professional and kind. There was any need that a person had that you couldn't help with. The accommodations were great, remembering this was a pilgrimage and not a vacation. We stayed at 2 different locations and the rooms were very comfortable and the food was excellent. Plenty of time for attending Mass and Talks, yet time for reflexing alone or with new found prayer friends. Just a few days into the pilgrimage, everyone became friends. So many "like minded" prayerful people. It was suggested we get to our meeting site a day or two earlier so we could get acclimated to the time change, and that worked out great! Julie and I spent 2 days in Split see the sites and just relaxing together. The guide were had was extremely knowledgeable. Plus, we can be proud that we have contributed to the restoration of the Franciscan Monastery! Transportation must be mentioned also, it was great!
By Michael M on 05 Jun, 2025
Show More References