Via Francigena

The 'Via Francigena' (the road that comes from France) also known as the 'Via Romea', or 'Via Romeo Francigena' was one of the most important routes in medieval Europe from the 6th to 13th centuries. It was used by pilgrims travelling to the holy city of Rome, as well as a route for kings, artists, merchants and everyday people. 

The route was first fully recorded by Sigeric, Archbishop of Canterbury around AD 989 or AD 990. Following his journey to Rome to receive his 'pallium' or investure mantel from the Pope, Sigeric recorded the route, in a document now held by the British Library. 

In the 1980's Italian researchers re-discovered the document, and found that the Archbishop's descriptions of places along the route correspond well with places still in existence, although the names of locations differ from their modern place names. 

The discovery has generated research, tourism and restoration of the route, undertaken by researchers, tourist organisations, government and walkers themselves. 

The route itself covers approximately 1900 kilmetres from Canterbury in England, through France, Switzerland and Italy.  

We will begin our walk at the Grand Saint Bernard Pass, on the border of Switzerland and Italy, and walk the Italian part of the pilgrimage trail, comprising approximately 1008 kilometres. 

For more information on the Via Francigena:

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