Author: Redazione AEVF

A 2025 journey along the Francigena Britannica: the connection between London and Canterbury is one of the most exciting developments in the Jubilee year. Here are all the details about the new route, approved during the latest EAVF General Assembly and soon to be officially inaugurated.

Seven stages, 146 km to be covered on foot or by bicycle through the south of England—a connection of great cultural significance. This is how the Francigena Britannica presents itself: an extension of the Via Francigena that, following ancient paths, links che capital London to Canterbury, the city of the renowned Archbishop Sigeric and the starting point (kilometre zero) of the Via Francigena.

British Francigena: The CPR Project Becomes Reality

This ambitious project was developed within the Confraternity of Pilgrims to Rome (CPR). This volunteer association, affiliated with AEVF, has been bringing together English-speaking walkers since 2006 and has been working on the recognition of the Francigena Britannica since 2021.

The new connecting route between Southwark Cathedral in London and the city of Canterbury retraces the historic pilgrimage path known as the ‘Via Britannica’, famously described by Geoffrey Chaucer in The Canterbury Tales in the 14th century. The Via Britannica is therefore an important pilgrimage route in its own right, but also a logical, natural, and cultural extension of the certified Via Francigena route.

This project represents an unmissable opportunity for the development of the Francigena and slow tourism in England, paving the way for the Francigena Britannica to take shape.

From Initial Checks to EAVF Member Approval

After years of research, meticulous dossier preparation, and submission to EAVF for evaluation, the summer of 2024 marked a turning point for the project, bringing it closer to completion:

• In June, a technical inspection of the route took place, attended by Luca Bruschi and Luca Faravelli, respectively EAVF Director and Project Manager, accompanied by Giancarlo Laurenzi, Honorary President of CPR.
• In July, the Bishops of London, Southwark, and Dover joined the charitable association Pilgrims to Rome for the first official event along the route.

On Friday, 18th October 2024, the EAVF General Assembly, held in Monte Sant’Angelo, Puglia, unanimously approved the Francigena Britannica.

WATCH THE VIDEO INTERVIEW

The Route at a Glance

The Francigena Britannica intersects seven well-marked existing trails: Thames Path, Green Chain Walk, Darent Valley Walk, Pilgrims Way, North Downs Way, Medway River Walk, and Stour Valley Way. Only 21 km of the route have been newly designated specifically for this project.

The 7 official stages are as follows:

• London (Southwark Cathedral) – Abbey Wood – 17 km
• Abbey Wood – Dartford – 21 km
• Dartford – Otford – 20 km
• Otford – Peter’s Bridge – 24 km
• Peter’s Bridge – Hollingbourne – 19 km
• Hollingbourne – Boughton Lees – 21 km
• Boughton Lees – Canterbury – 24 km

The European route maintains Canterbury as kilometre zero of the Via Francigena. However, thanks to this new extension, the Via Francigena in the UK will now cover 177 km, passing through London, Dartford, Canterbury, and Dover.

London and Rome Draw Closer

Strongly supported by EAVF and Canterbury’s local authorities, this project brings London and Rome even closer in a pivotal year for the Via Francigena and pilgrimage routes. Marked by the Jubilee on one hand and a growing interest in walking tourism on the other, 2025 will see an increasing number of travellers who are conscious of sustainability and their environmental impact, even when journeying.

In this context, we are confident that the Francigena Britannica will be a highly appreciated addition among pilgrims, outdoor enthusiasts, and international travellers alike!

You may also be interested in the following articles:

• Three bishops on the road to inaugurate the Francigena Britannica
• Walking the Francigena Britannica: from London to Canterbury
• Great success of the EAVF General Assembly in Monte Sant’Angelo
• From Canterbury to Fidenza: An Interview with Councillor Connie Nolan

Launching Soon: “Walking the Via Francigena Pilgrim Route – Part 4” – The new English-language guide published by Cicerone Press accompanies pilgrims on the final section of the Via Francigena, from Rome to Santa Maria di Leuca, passing through the fascinating cities of Monte Sant’Angelo, Bari, Brindisi, and Lecce.

Written by Sandy Brown and Nicole Bukaty, the volume covers the last 940 km of the route, divided into 52 stages. It offers readers insights and tips to discover lesser-known places, as well as essential information on services, accommodation, logistics, and much more.

Cicerone’s guide to the Southern Via Francigena will be available from 15 April 2025, but it can already be pre-ordered here at a discounted price. This is a unique opportunity to receive this invaluable travel companion in advance, guiding pilgrims through some of Italy’s most stunning landscapes—from the ancient Via Appia to the southern beaches, and the wonders of the Gargano National Park.

The Via Francigena in Southern Italy is more international than ever!

The project has been supported by the Italian Puglia Region, aiming to provide a fundamental resource for the many pilgrims who will embark on the Southern Via Francigena during the 2025 Jubilee and in the years to come. The southern section of the Via Francigena is growing in popularity, particularly among international walkers and cyclists—as recent statistics confirm—and the release of this English-language volume marks a significant milestone in its development and promotion.

This initiative is part of the broader commitment of the Puglia Region, which has dedicated seven years to planning and developing the “Cammini del Sud” (Routes of Southern Italy), with the goal of internationalising and enhancing these trails. As Angelofabio Attolico, curator of the volume, highlights in the guide’s preface: “Back in 2019, imagining we had the technical foundations to make an international proposal of this kind was pure utopia. Today, we are delighted that one of the most renowned publishers in the English-speaking world has included one of our trails in its catalogue.”

The initiative also aligns perfectly with another EAVF project, supported by the Lazio Region for the 2025 Jubilee: a travel journal that starts precisely from the Via Francigena in Southern Italy, with the first two chapters already available on Puglia region and Campania region.

👉 DISCOVER ALL PRINTED GUIDES ON THE VIA FRANCIGENA

👉 PRE-ORDER THE SOUTHERN VIA FRANCIGENA GUIDE by CICERONE Press

The walking season is upon us and, as every year, we take a look at the numbers of the Via Francigena in 2024 and the estimated flow of pilgrims, recorded by the European Association of the Via Francigena ways (EAVF) through the distribution of EAVF credentials.

The year 2024 has confirmed a significant international presence along the route, which continues to establish itself as an increasingly sought-after destination and experience. It attracts a growing number of young people and is becoming more popular among international travellers, including those from non-European continents. Contributing to this trend are the new English-language guides published by the London-based publishing house Cicerone, which has recently released the fourth volume covering the southern section of the Via Francigena. This completes the collection of three existing volumes: Canterbury-Lausanne, Lausanne-Lucca, and Lucca-Rome.

CREDENTIALS IN 2024: THE NUMBERS

Once again, EAVF has analysed data collected from the distribution of credentials by the association. A total of 3,885 pilgrims completed the questionnaire upon receiving their credentials.

These figures should be considered as indicative estimates rather than absolute numbers. Several factors must be taken into account:

• There is currently no official observatory monitoring the flow of walkers along the Via Francigena.
• Statistically, 30% of pilgrims use the same credential multiple times, particularly those who walk sections of 7-10 days with the same credential over multiple years.
• 20% of walkers do not use a credential.
• Other credentials, in addition to EAVF’s, are also in circulation.

In 2024, the number of AEVF credentials distributed was 14,595, and there were 125 distribution points for the pilgrim passport.

TRAVELLER PROFILE

MODE OF TRAVEL

There has been a slight increase in the number of pilgrims choosing to travel on foot, confirming their overwhelming majority among respondents (87% compared to 86% in 2023). Conversely, the number of cycling pilgrims has slightly decreased (13% compared to 14% in 2023). Notably, seven pilgrims travelled parts of the route on horseback, an increase from just one case recorded in 2023.

AGE

The age distribution of those walking the Via Francigena confirms last year’s trend, which saw an increase in young pilgrims. In 2024, the under-25 age group (20.7%) and the 55-64 age group (20.8%) were almost tied for the highest percentage. Just below them were the 45-54 (17%) and 25-34 (16.7%) age groups. The over-65 category accounted for 14%, followed by the 35-44 age group (10%).

GENDER

Regarding gender, the figures remain consistent with those of 2023, showing a slight predominance of male participants (51.4%) over female participants (48.8%), although the number of women has been increasing in recent years.

NATIONALITY

In line with 2023, the largest group of walkers remains Italian, with their share rising by nearly three percentage points (70.7% compared to 68% last year). They are followed by France, the USA, and new entries in the top five: the UK and the Netherlands. Just below them are Germany, Belgium, and Australia.

Interest in the Via Francigena outside Europe spans from Mexico to Japan, Korea to New Zealand, and includes Argentina and Venezuela. The analysis of completed questionnaires recorded visitors from over 50 countries, confirming the increasingly international appeal of the route.

DEPARTURE MONTH

April remains the most popular departure month (26%). This trend, established in 2023, contrasts sharply with the 2022 figures, where the three summer months—August, July, and June—were the most preferred for starting the journey.

Continuing the trend against 2022, departures are increasingly spread throughout the year: August follows with 13.6%, May with 12.3%, June with 8.2%, and then September, July, and October.

STARTING AND ENDING LOCATIONS

In 2024, the top three departure locations were all in Tuscany: Lucca (19.2%), Siena (7.4%), and San Miniato (6.2%). Lucca, which held first place in 2022 and 2023, continues to be a preferred starting point for those setting off on the Via Francigena with the goal of reaching Siena or Rome. Other popular Tuscan locations include Altopascio, Gambassi Terme, and San Gimignano, followed by Rome, the Great St Bernard Pass in Switzerland, Viterbo, Canterbury in England, and Aosta.

Regarding pilgrimage destinations, Rome remains in first place with 40.9%. The arrival in the Eternal City continues to be a key goal for many pilgrims, and with the Jubilee Year approaching in 2025, an even greater influx is expected to St Peter and St Paul’s tombs. Siena follows with 24.9%, along with the Tuscan destinations of Monteriggioni and San Gimignano. Rounding out the top five is Santa Maria di Leuca, the southernmost point of the Via Francigena.

MOTIVATIONS

Sharing remains the driving force behind many journeys along the Via Francigena and is the most frequently cited motivation by respondents (42.7%). The pilgrimage is, above all, an opportunity to share an extraordinary experience, a meal with friends, a chat along the route, or time at a hostel with fellow travellers. Other significant motivations include tourism (33.4%), culture (32.4%), spirituality and personal growth (24.3%), faith (12.5%), and finally, environmental, sporting, and gastronomic reasons.

THE TESTIMONIUM IN ROME

An important update concerns the reception of pilgrims in Rome. From May 2024 and throughout 2025, a new service has been activated to support those arriving in the Eternal City.

The Fabbrica di San Pietro, which has managed the pilgrim reception service in Rome since 2022 with a dedicated desk at St Peter’s Basilica, is carrying out a volunteer project in collaboration with the Via Romea Strata and the Homo Viator – San Teobaldo Foundation. This initiative aims to train volunteers to welcome and assist pilgrims reaching Rome at the end of their journey. Volunteers support the Basilica staff and warmly welcome pilgrims with empathy and hospitality. Click here to find out more about the service.

In 2024, nearly 6,000 pilgrims arriving at St Peter’s have received the Testimonium, compared to 3,319 in 2023. This number is expected to grow further during the 2025 Jubilee Year.

HOW DID PREVIOUS YEARS GO?
Have a look at the data on our ‘Statistics’ page!

On Sunday 9th February, at the Regione Piemonte‘s stand, AEVF participated in the BIT (International Tourism Exchange) at Rho Fieramilano for a meeting focused on the future of slow and sustainable tourism along the Via Francigena.

The historic route connecting Canterbury to Rome, a symbol of a centuries-old tradition of pilgrimages and walking journeys, reaffirms its pivotal role in the sector and among trekking enthusiasts, positioning itself as an example of inclusivity and sustainability.

Key Figures and Topics

During the meeting, moderated by Gabriele Garofletti, Live Content Creator (@iosonogaroflex), Barbara Bellini, Head of Tourism Promotion for Regione Piemonte, Franco Grosso, National Vice President of the Rete dei Cammini, and Luca Bruschi, Director of the European Association of the Via Francigena Ways, discussed inclusivity, sustainability, and the expansion of tourism that is increasingly shifting towards ecological and conscious practices.

The discussion highlighted the importance of accessible tourism along the Via Francigena: Regione Piemonte has been working on this theme for years, with significant results achieved through the “Via Francigena for All” project, funded under the PNRR funds.

The hope is that more regions will follow the example of Regione Piemonte, sparking a positive trend towards inclusivity.

The Role of Social Media in Slow Tourism

Another key topic discussed during the meeting was the growing interest in the Via Francigena, which has seen significant growth in recent years. This success is also attributed, as Luca Bruschi points out, to word-of-mouth via social media, which has led to a true “renaissance” of slow tourism. The younger generations, particularly Gen Z, have promoted a return to naturalness, stripping away the glossy images we’ve been accustomed to, making them as “real” as possible, and as a result, the concept of travel has taken on a new form.

In this context, the Via Francigena reaffirms itself as one of the most sought-after destinations for those seeking a deeper connection with places and an authentic, slow travel experience. The event confirmed that the Via Francigena is not only a physical destination but also a transformative experience that promotes tourism respectful of the environment and people, increasingly appreciated by the new generation of travellers.

The meeting also provided an important opportunity to explore the European projects in which AEVF is involved, particularly HIKE – aimed at promoting healthier lifestyles through hiking along Europe’s cultural and historical paths – and DETOUR – focused on enhancing small and medium-sized businesses located along the Via Francigena and other routes in Europe.

The Lazio Region and the Galicia Region have signed a cooperation agreement to promote two major cultural routes: the Via Francigena and the Camino de Santiago de Compostela.

Rome, 6 February 2025 – On Thursday, 6 February, at Palazzo Borromeo, the seat of the Italian Embassy to the Holy See, the Memorandum of Collaboration was signed between the Lazio Region and the Autonomous Community of Galicia, in the presence of their respective Presidents, Francesco Rocca and Alfonso Ruela Valenzuela. This formal act marks the beginning of an important partnership aimed at fostering dialogue and promoting these two European cultural routes, which were certified by the Council of Europe in 1987 and 1994, respectively.

The institutional meeting was attended by Francesco di Nitto, Italian Ambassador to the Holy See; Riccardo Guariglia, Secretary General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs; Daniela Santanchè, Minister of Tourism; and Monsignor Rino Fisichella, Pro-Prefect of the Dicastery for Evangelisation.

The agreement also aims to strengthen cultural ties between Lazio and Galicia, promote sustainable and responsible tourism, and create new opportunities for pilgrims and travellers who, during the Jubilee Year, will undertake the Via Francigena and the Camino de Santiago de Compostela.

The meeting was introduced by Civita Di Russo, Vice-President of the European Association of the Via Francigena ways (EAVF) and Deputy Chief of Staff to the President of the Lazio Region. She outlined the journey leading to this significant memorandum, which forms part of a broader European agreement signed in November 2023 between the European Association of the Via Francigena and the European Federation of the Camino de Santiago. The event also saw the participation of Francesco Ferrari, President of EAVF; Aldo Patruno, Vice-President of EAVF; Silvio Marino, Delegate of the Mayor of Rome; Maria Pia Bariggi, Deputy Mayor of Fidenza; and representatives of the Gruppo dei Dodici.

As part of this important institutional initiative, on Wednesday, 5 February, the exhibition “The Cultural Routes of the Council of Europe: from the Via Francigena to the Camino de Santiago de Compostela” was inaugurated at WeGil, a cultural hub of the Lazio Region. The exhibition is structured into the following sections:

• “Via Francigena, Road to Rome”, a 3,200 km journey from Canterbury to Rome and on to Puglia
• The Camino de Santiago de Compostela
• “The Cultural Routes of the Council of Europe in Italy: A European Heritage”.

The inauguration featured speeches by José Manuel Merelles Remy, Director of the Galician Tourism Agency; Serhij Morhunov, Vice-President of the European Federation of the Camino de Santiago; Roberta Alberotanza, Coordinator of the ECHE Lab Cultural Routes Section at the University of Reggio Calabria; Civita Di Russo, Vice-President of the European Association of the Via Francigena; Antonello Aurigemma, President of the Lazio Regional Council; Paolo Giuntarelli, Director of Tourism for the Lazio Region; and Luca Bruschi, Director of the European Association of the Via Francigena.

In his concluding remarks, Bruschi highlighted the synergies already in place between the two European cultural routes, which are collaborating on an Erasmus project focused on slow mobility, walking, accessibility, and sport.

The exhibition is open to the public at WeGil until 7 March, every day from 10:00 to 19:00.

2025 marks a pivotal year for the Via Francigena, which will be the focus of a rich programme of initiatives designed for pilgrims journeying along the ancient route to Rome in celebration of the Jubilee. In this context of great activity, our Association is proud to renew, for the third consecutive year, its partnership with FlixBus, a strategic alliance that promotes sustainable tourism and slow travel.

As early as 2024, slow tourism emerged as one of the most popular travel types, as confirmed by the Holiday Barometer, which reported that 78% of Italians showed a strong interest in this form of tourism.

In 2025, the Jubilee year, an even greater increase in pilgrims and travellers along the Via Francigena is expected, drawn by the spiritual call and the authentic experience of the journey. This data highlights for EAVF the importance of facilitating travel between stages and ensuring pilgrims have the best possible experience along the route, by offering strategic connections and exclusive discount codes for those travelling the Via Francigena with the official pilgrim credential, through the involvement of its network of partners. Leading the way is FlixBus, the bus travel operator with over 400,000 daily connections linking more than 5,600 destinations in over 40 countries across four continents.

“We are truly happy to renew this agreement, which allows us to support even more strongly the affirmation of a new culture of travel that is more immersive, responsible, and mindful. The synergy between FlixBus’s network and the Via Francigena, with its route winding across Europe, is a winning combination for uncovering the lesser-known beauty of our continent, enhancing the connection between travellers and local communities in a new dimension of conscious travel, where the tourist gives way to the explorer,” said Marco Zucchetti, Senior Manager PR & ESG Communications Manager at Flix.

Discounts and benefits at your fingertips with the credential

The Via Francigena credential, known as the ‘pilgrim’s passport’, allows travellers to collect stamps at each stage, certifying their passage. These stamps can be obtained at tourist offices, parishes, accommodation facilities, and rest stops. In addition to being a beautiful keepsake of the journey and the miles travelled, the Credential also offers access to exclusive discounts and benefits for pilgrims, as detailed at this link.

Thanks to the credential, you can take advantage of discounted fares on the FlixBus network. How? It’s simple – just follow these steps:

• Click here and access the discount code request form.

• Enter the five-digit code on the front of your Credential, along with your name and email address.

• You will receive an email with your discount code, which you can apply during payment after selecting your journey on the FlixBus app. For more details, please consult this page.

The Italian Lazio Region participates in the Travel & Adventure Show in New York to introduce the Via Francigena to the American public.

As the leader of the “Communication and Promotion Plan for the Via Francigena” project, Lazio Region attended the Travel & Adventure Show di New York for the first time on 25-26 January 2025. During the event, the Via Francigena route was presented to the general public with a special focus on the entire Italian stretch, from Valle d’Aosta to Puglia.

The New York fair (25,000 visitors) is one of the most important events in the outdoor and trails sector held in the United States. Present at the fair and the Via Francigena stand were the Lazio Region’s Tourism Director, Paolo Giuntarelli, along with official Gianluca Perla. Also in attendance were ENIT North America representative Caterina Orlando, Deputy Consul Marta Mammana, ICE New York Director Erica di Giovancarlo, and Italian parish priest Don Luigi Portarulo from St. Patrick’s Cathedral.

The Ministry of Tourism and all the Italian regions crossed by the Via Francigena are heavily investing in the development of the route for the Jubilee Year, with the belief that 2025 will bring international attention to the path. It is crucial that this investment continues to improve safety, hospitality, signage, and accessibility along the route to better support ongoing promotional efforts.

All communication initiatives are supported by the European Association of the Via Francigena ways, which, thanks to the same FSC funding and under the coordination of the Lazio Region, is working on a redesign of the new website and app, with completion expected by early summer.

On 22-23 January 2025 the European Association of the Via Francigena ways took part in the biannual meeting of the DETOUR project (Development of Resilient Tourism Ecosystems along Mediterranean Walking Routes) alongside international partners from four European countries.

The project, funded by the European Union through the COSME program, aims to promote resilient and innovative tourism ecosystems by supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) located along Mediterranean hiking routes, such as the Via Francigena, the Lycian Way in Turkey, the Sultan’s Trail in Bulgaria, and the mountain trails near Mount Olympus, Kissavos, and Mavrovouni in Greece.

The meeting in Turkey was opened by the Governor of Antalya, Ersin Yazıcı, who warmly welcomed the participants and highlighted the crucial importance of sustainable tourism for preserving the region’s cultural and natural heritage while fostering economic growth. Filippo Botti, Head of Administrative Services for the Municipality of Fidenza and leader of the project, followed with a speech emphasizing DETOUR’s role in supporting local development and ecological transition, key elements for a more responsible and innovative tourism model.

The DETOUR project, set to run over three years with a budget of €2 million, includes training for 32 tourism stakeholders and over 80 SMEs, and provision of grants of up to €25,000 for 32 innovative projects along the walking routes including the Via Francigena designed to transform tourism offerings.

During the Antalya meeting, participants worked on preparing a questionnaire for SMEs located along the project routes to analyze their current practices, challenges, and needs. The results of this survey will guide the development of training modules to equip businesses and stakeholders with advanced skills in sustainability, digitalization, and innovative practices. Additionally, info days were planned to raise awareness and engage local businesses.

The event also provided participants with the opportunity to explore the region through a hike along a section of the Lycian Way, a stunning trail along the country’s southern coast that stretches approximately 540 km from Fethiye to Antalya. 

The next DETOUR meeting will be hosted by the European Association of the Via Francigena ways in Italy in autumn 2025.

The stages of the Via Francigena in Lombardy region in Italy are seven in total, stretching from the town of Palestro to the Piedmontese border, passing through the provinces of Pavia and Lodi, up to the stage from Orio Litta to Piacenza, which marks the beginning of Emilia-Romagna after crossing the Po River.

This is a route of around 150 km, divided into seven stages, which tells the stories of little-known but very fascinating villages scattered along rivers such as the Sesia, Po, and Ticino, through cultivated fields and rice paddies. In preparation for the 2025 Jubilee, the Via Francigena in Lombardy will welcome many pilgrims: thanks to the collaboration between the EAVF, the Lombardy Region, the provinces of Pavia and Lodi, and the municipality of Orio Litta, the project “La Via Francigena in Lombardy, towards the 2025 Jubilee” has been created, dedicated to enhancing and improving the Lombard stretch of the Francigena. Initiatives include improving signage in the province of Lodi, in line with the signage guide approved by EAVF and the involved Regions; a series of training meetings for public and private entities on promotion, hospitality, services, and cultural enhancement; and the distribution of informational materials for pilgrims. Thanks to the valuable collaboration with Free Wheels Onlus, the Accessibility Guide has also been created, with the support of experts and associations, to make the route more inclusive.

Must-See Places in Lombardy region

Along the Via Francigena in Lombardy, many places of historical, architectural, religious, and culinary interest can be found. EAVF has mapped 28 of them:

• The Tower of Palestro – (PV)
  In the eponymous town, in the province of Pavia, you can admire this tower, once part of a medieval castrum, now disappeared due to the devastations of the 17th and 18th centuries. The Tower is the only surviving structure of the original complex, which, according to historical records, included at least six towers, the residence of the feudal lords, civil and military buildings, prisons, and a place of worship. Strategically located near the Sesia River, along the road between Vercelli and Novara, and on the Via Francigena, the castrum allowed for effective control of the territory.
• San Valerian Church – Robbio (PV)
  Founded in the early 11th century by the Lomellina family of da Besate, it was part of a monumental complex that included a monastery, a baptistery, and a bell tower. As a priory dependent on the Benedictine Abbey of Cluny, and due to its location along the Via Francigena, the church played an important role and offered hospitality to pilgrims on their way to Rome.
• The Romanesque Church of San Pietro – Robbio (PV)
  Dating back to the last quarter of the 12th century, the main building was constructed by Lombard artisans. Notably, the façade features a terracotta portal made by the Comacini Masters.

• The Vivetta Sewing Machine Museum – Robbio (PV)
  This museum houses a unique collection of over 500 sewing machines, from renowned brands like Singer and Necchi to lesser-known ones. Giovanni Baldin, the founder of the museum and project, has been collecting these machines for 40 years.
• The Basilica of San Lorenzo – Mortara (PV)
  Built towards the end of the 14th century by Bartolino da Novara, it features a Gothic-style terracotta façade and contains numerous works of art. Upon entering, to the right, there is a 15th-century fresco depicting the Virgin with Child, which has long been a focus of great devotion by the people of Mortara.
• The Abbey of Sant’Albino – Mortara (PV)
  Built at the request of the English monk Alcuino Albino, it stands on the site where, on 12th October 773, Charlemagne’s Franks defeated the Lombards of King Desiderius, resulting in many casualties, including two Frankish paladins: Amelio d’Alvernia and Amico Beyre. Legend has it that Charlemagne ordered them to be buried in two nearby churches, but the next day, the two bodies were found in the same church. It was then that Albino, Charlemagne’s advisor, proposed the establishment of a monastery on the site.

• The Province of Pavia – Lomellina Area
  This region is the leading rice producer in Italy and Europe, so much so that the plains of Lomellina and the Lower Pavese are known as “the land of rice”. Originally, however, the area was marshy and partly barren, and it was only from the Middle Ages onwards that the land was transformed, enriched with canals and ditches. Today, the fertile flooded rice paddies turn the landscape into a checkerboard of water, reflecting the many farmhouses and castles of the region, along with birdlife like herons, ibis, and mallards.
• Sanctuary of Madonna della Bozzola – Garlasco (PV)
  Erected in 1465 following an apparition of the Madonna to a mute girl, who was healed by the Virgin and asked to build a sanctuary in her name to protect the area. Upon returning to the village, the girl recounted the story, and the locals, astonished, began building the sanctuary.
• Parasacco – Zerbolò (PV)
  On the right bank of the Ticino River, Parasacco was originally a commercial settlement. The Tower that once belonged to the old castle remains, a stronghold built by the people of Pavia between the 14th and 15th centuries to counter the Milanese expansionist ambitions over Lomellina.

• The Certosa of Pavia – (PV)
  A monumental complex that includes the Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie, the Ducal Palace, and two cloisters for monastic life. Commissioned in 1396 by Gian Galeazzo Visconti, it was intended as a palace, palatine church, and mausoleum. Today, the Certosa houses a museum and even an herbal shop where the monks sell herbal teas, liqueurs, and digestives made from medicinal plants grown in the garden.
• Pavia Castle – (PV)
  Built by Galeazzo II Visconti starting in 1360, it became more of a refined court residence than a defensive fortress. The elegant decorations, such as the graceful windows and internal frescoes depicting battle scenes, court life, and hunting, suggest its role as a royal residence.
• Pavia Cathedral – (PV)
  Construction of the Cathedral of Pavia began in 1488 and was completed in the 1930s. Built at the request of the citizens, the cathedral was erected above the two Romanesque churches of St. Stephen and St. Mary of the People, which are now dedicated to the saints. The design, created by Donato Bramante, features a Greek cross and an octagonal dome. Inside, the cathedral houses the relics of saints and blessed individuals, including St. Siro, patron of Pavia, and the Holy Spikes of Christ’s Crown.

• Basilica of San Michael Mayor – Pavia
  One of the finest examples of Pavia’s Romanesque architecture, it was built on a previous Lombard place of worship. During the Carolingian period, it became a palatine chapel and later, from the end of the 9th century, the preferred venue for royal rituals, baptisms, and coronations, including that of Frederick Barbarossa in 1155.
• San Pietro in Ciel d’Oro – Pavia
  Built on an ancient Lombard temple, it is said to be the same place where Theodoric, the Ostrogoth king, had the philosopher Boethius executed and buried for treason. The current Romanesque basilica was constructed between the late 11th and early 12th centuries and reached its peak under King Liutprand, who transferred the remains of St. Augustine to this site.
• Belgioioso Castle – (PV)
  Founded by Gian Galeazzo II Visconti in the 14th century on family land where the village of Belgioioso would later develop, the name “gioioso” is said to reflect the pleasure the Duke took in staying in the area, while “bel” was added after the castle’s embellishment.

• Cusani Visconti Castle – Chignolo Po (PV)
  Also known as the Castle of Chignolo Po, it was built in the 13th century on a Lombard stronghold, of which only the Tower remains. The castle became one of the largest Lombard estates in the 13th century, passing ownership first to the Pusterla family and then to the Cusani family.
• Cavazzi Castle – Somaglia (LO)
  Built on an ancient castrum from the year 1000, the current appearance of the castle derives from two main interventions: in the 14th century, Barnabò Visconti built the part with exposed brick and Ghibelline merlons; in the 17th century, the Cavazzi family transformed the fortress into a noble residence.
• Zanardi Landi Palace – Guardamiglio (LO)
  The Tower, or “Torretta,” is all that remains of the summer residence commissioned by the Zanardi-Landi family in the 16th century. Today, the structure hosts events, cultural activities, and temporary exhibitions, making it a central location in the town.

• Church of San Pietro – Mezzana Casati (LO)
  Built around 1573, this church has a Latin cross plan with a single nave, two chapels in the transept, and an elevated presbytery, all covered by ribbed vaults.
• Cascina Aione – Orio Litta (LO)
  Originally a flourishing agricultural company until the 1970s, Cascina Filandone’s name changed to “Aione” in recent years, recalling the large square adjacent to it, today known as Piazza Aldo Moro and a public garden.
• Benedictine Grange – Orio Litta (LO)
  The term “Grange” comes from Latin and means “granary”. It was an agricultural centre managed by monks, storing and producing resources for monastic life. Its most distinctive feature is the panoramic tower, which today offers rooms for pilgrims travelling the Via Francigena, preserving one of the Grange’s historical functions.

• Church of Sant’Andrea – Corte Sant’Andrea (LO)
  Located in the village of Corte Sant’Andrea, this church stands at the confluence of the Lambro and Po rivers. It was historically referred to as “Santo Andrea ad Caudam” due to the shape of the land resembling a long tail (“caudam” in Latin).
• Sigerico Ford – Calendasco (PC)
  In the hamlet of Senna Lodigiana, you will find the Transitum Padi, the ancient ford over the Po River, where pilgrims would cross to reach Soprarivo di Calendasco, the first Emilia-Romagna stage of the Via Francigena.

• Province of Pavia – (Typical Dishes)
  The province of Pavia is renowned for its excellent wines and rich agricultural and culinary traditions. A staple product of Pavia is rice, with over 80,000 hectares of rice fields in the province, making it the leading rice producer in Italy. Pork is also a key ingredient, and it is used to produce the Salame di Varzi, typical of the Oltrepò area, which utilises all parts of the pig, even the “noble” cuts. Other popular pork products include ciccioli (pork cracklings), cotechino (a type of sausage), and sanguinaccio (blood sausage). Barbera, Bonarda, Moscato, and Pinot are just a few of the thirty-six types of wine produced in the Oltrepò. Other regional specialties include Borlotti beans, grown for centuries in Gambolò, as well as in Garlasco and Mortara; the Bertagnina pumpkin of Dorno; and the Ecumenical Goose Salami, primarily produced in Mortara, so named because it is suitable for consumption by all three monotheistic religions.

• Province of Lodi – (Typical Dishes)
  The culinary tradition of Lodi features typical products such as rice, cured meats, and especially cheeses. The king of Lodi cheeses is Grana, or Granone Lodigiano, from which raspadüra is made, thin shavings of cheese obtained using a special knife. Another local cheese is Pannerone, which is characterised by a bitter aftertaste and soft texture. In terms of desserts, mascarpone, made from cream, is a prominent ingredient. A traditional main dish is tripe. Other typical dishes include risotto (in variations with tomato and salamella sausage or with savoy cabbage and Borlotti beans), stewed frogs, loin rolls stuffed with Grana cheese and breadcrumbs, and desserts such as Tortionata and Sant’Angelo amaretti biscuits.

• Ticino Val Grande Verbano Biosphere Reserve – Milan, Novara, Pavia, Varese, Verbano-Cusio-Ossola
  This reserve extends along the Ticino River, between Piedmont and Lombardy, covering over 332,000 hectares and including more than 200 municipalities. It forms an important ecological corridor within the Po Plain, with rich biodiversity, numerous historical sites, and is one of the largest river parks in Europe. The Ticino Val Grande Verbano Reserve was officially designated in 2018, expanding the existing Ticino Valley Reserve, which has been part of the UNESCO “Man and the Biosphere” (MAB) programme since 2002.

• Po Grande Biosphere Reserve – Pavia, Lodi, Piacenza, Cremona, Parma, Reggio Emilia, Mantua, and Rovigo
  The Po Grande Reserve was established on 19th June 2019, joining the UNESCO “Man and the Biosphere” programme with the aim of promoting scientific cooperation, environmental sustainability, and a balance between human activity and nature. The reserve is located in the central stretch of the Po River and spans 286,600 hectares. It crosses the regions of Lombardy, Emilia-Romagna, and Veneto, involving 85 municipalities in the provinces of Pavia, Lodi, Piacenza, Cremona, Parma, Reggio Emilia, Mantua, and Rovigo.

• Monticchie Nature Reserve – Somaglia (LO)
  The landscape of Somaglia has long been characterised by dense forests and marshy areas, described in some ancient parchments as “Lacus de Barisiis”, as it was the meeting point for the old courses of the Lambro, Po, and Brembiolo rivers. The Monticchie Nature Reserve now spans 250 hectares, including 24.5 hectares of hydrophilic woodland and 225.5 hectares of agricultural land rich in canals and springs. The reserve is particularly notable for its fauna, including a significant heronry of over 600 breeding pairs, among which the Grey Heron is particularly prominent. The high quality of its waters is evidenced by the presence of a rare frog species, the Lataste’s Frog, as well as the Collared Grass Snake and the Spotted Salamander.

Additional Information
To embark on a journey through these areas, it is recommended to check the relevant websites for opening hours and booking requirements, as some sites may require prior reservations.

On 22-23 January 2025 European Association of the Via Francigena ways will participate in the kick-off meeting of the European project “DETOUR: Development of Resilient Tourism Ecosystems along Mediterranean Routes“, financed by the European Union under the COSME programme. 

The project, launched on 1 november 2024 by eighth European partners, aims at promoting and enhancing green transition, digitalisation and resilience of the small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) located along the walking routes.

Over the next three years, partners from five countries will work together to support rural development along the Via Francigena in Italy, the Lycian Way in Turkey, the Sultan’s Trail in Bulgaria, and a network of mountain routes in Greece.

The kick-off meeting in Antalya, Turkey, will provide an opportunity for all project partners to align on objectives and strategies. The event will include institutional greetings, with a welcome address by the Governor, as well as moments of discovery, such as a guided walk along the Lycian Way to explore the local territory.

With a budget of 2 million euros and a three-year timeline, DETOUR represents a significant commitment to fostering

Credits: Lycian Way – Culture Routes Society