Via di Francesco

Via di Francesco

via-di-francescoAn enchanting itinerary linking the symbols of the life of the saint, the Via di Francesco is a journey of about 500 kms that touches Tuscany, Umbria and Lazio. The silence and pure nature along the way exalt the message of peace and love that Saint Francesco preached on this same path during his pilgrimage years.

The path can be divided into: Way of North, for those who come from Tuscany, and Way of South, for those who come from Lazio. In the first case, the departure is set at the square of the Sanctuary of the Verna, surrounded by the shady Apennine woods. In the second case, the starting point is the Santuraio di Greccio, in the reatina valley. The arrival destination is in both cases the city of Assisi, home of Saint Francesco.

The Via di Francesco is entirely accessible both on foot and by bicycle, preferably by mountain biking. The trail winds largely between mountains and hills, meeting sometimes difficult climbs and descents, requiring a minimum of physical preparation and proper training. As with any Franciscan journey, there is also a pilgrim’s credential for this itinerary (a kind of passport to be stamped at each stage to certify your passage).

Along the way there are numerous signs (marked with yellow and blue colors) that make it extremely easy for pilgrims to follow the right path. In the same way it is easy to find accommodation for the night, the route is in fact dotted with hotel structures, bed and breakfast and agritourism. Nearly every crossed country also has a specialist shop where you can find any spare parts for the bike and get help repairing your vehicle.

The best moments to discover the Via di Francesco are certainly the spring and autumn when the colors of nature are brighter and lively.