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Pilgrimage as Well-Being Therapy: Exploring the Mental, Physical and Social Benefits of Pilgrimage Walks  

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What if the key to well-being lies not in a new method, but in a centuries-old practice? Semmelweis University participates in a research project that explores how walking pilgrimage can become a form of mental, physical, social and spiritual well-being – and even a kind of therapy. 

The challenges of modern life – such as stress, anxiety, and the lack of social connections – are creating a growing demand for alternative solutions that support both physical and mental balance. Walking pilgrimage offers a unique combination of physical activity, connection with nature, opportunities for social interaction, and a deeper, spiritual quest for meaning in life thus contributing to well-being in a complex way. 

The Pilgrim-Aphy-Tour project – awardee of the 8th Call of the EUniWell Alliance’s Seed Funding Program – builds on this recognition. The project does not only examine the question on a theoretical level – but researchers are also literally set out on the journey. They collect data along four iconic European pilgrimage routes: the Camino de Santiago, the Via Francigena, the Camino Podolico and the Way of Mary. From Semmelweis University, Pilgrim-Aphy-Tour is coordinated by Zsuzsanna Papp, Assistant Professor at the Institute of Mental Health.  

“We are still in the early phase of data collection, but through our collaboration with organizations coordinating pilgrimages in Hungary, we already see clear indications that longer pilgrimages often become turning points in people’s lives. Many pilgrims set out on these journeys during periods of life transition or crisis, actively searching for answers and new direction”, says Zsuzsanna.  

Through a complex, online questionnaire researchers ask pilgrims about their motivations, how they feel during the journey, and what changes their experience. At the same time, local stakeholders -such as tourism professionals or healthcare providers – are also interviewed to gain a comprehensive understanding of the effects of pilgrimage. During the shared fieldwork, researchers not only collect data but also examine – through their own experiences – how walking, nature, and the rhythm of pilgrimage affect individuals. 

“What surprised me most is how diverse pilgrimage experiences are, ranging from long, deeply personal journeys to physically challenging routes, as well as one-day trips to sacred places focused on spiritual or community connection”, explains Zsuzsanna. “From my own journey, moments such as walking past small churches, crossing endless wheat fields, forming friendships in pilgrim hostels, the meditative rhythm of walking, and the distance from everyday life all contributed to an experience that I would describe as deeply therapeutic.” 

This dual approach – combining scientific analysis with personal experience – makes the research particularly valuable and allows for a comprehensive understanding of pilgrimage. 

“The uniqueness of the project lies in its interdisciplinary approach, combining scientific analysis with personal experience to provide a more comprehensive understanding of pilgrimage. It takes into account the natural environment, the built heritage along the route, and the sacred destination itself, with all its spiritual, historical, cultural, artistic, and economic dimensions – while also recognizing pilgrimage as a growing economic and tourism phenomenon that cannot be overlooked”, adds Zsuzsanna. “Our research team reflects this interdisciplinarity, and we are convinced that these elements together shape the personal experience of pilgrims.”

Bringing together 12 universities, EUniWell serves as a platform for innovative interdisciplinary collaboration, research excellence, educational leadership and civic engagement, all aimed at enhancing social, mental, and physical well-being. Pilgrim-Aphy-Tour has been selected for funding as a joint research effort of 4 partner universities from the alliance: the University of Santiago de Compostela, the University of Florence, the Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv and Semmelweis University.  

“Being part of EUniWell enables the interdisciplinary and international perspective that makes our research unique. The Seed Funding provides a strong framework to move the project forward”, says Zsuzsanna, reflecting on the role EUniWell plays in collaborative research projects.   

The results of Pilgrim-Aphy-Tour are expected to contribute to a deeper understanding of the relationship between pilgrimage and well-being, while also providing practical recommendations for healthcareprofessionals, policymakers, and tourism stakeholders. In the long term, the research may promote a perspective that sees pilgrimage as a meaningful tool for supporting mental health. 

“We would like to support the idea that pilgrimage can integrate all dimensions of well-being – biological, psychological, social, and spiritual – into one experience, while also promoting and maintaining health in a simple and accessible way for many people”, adds Zsuzsanna.  

Looking for an opportunity to turn your innovative idea into reality?   

Apply now to EUniWell’s 10th Seed Funding Call and fund your project with up to EUR 25,000! Proposals must involve a collaboration between at least four EUniWell member universities and focus on improving health, education, society, institutional transformation, environment, social and gender equality, and cultural inclusion.   

The deadline for applications is 17 May! 

Find the application form and more information on the dedicated EUniWell website.  

Semmelweis University’s involvement in the EUniWell program is supported by the National Research, Development and Innovation Fund (NKFIH).