1,200 people took part in the South Francigena Marathon on 28th April. The first edition of the event along the Via Francigena of the South was a success, with high levels of participation and enthusiasm! 

Despite the lack of spring-like weather, hikers from all over Italy travelled the section from Velletri to Rome, along the three planned routes: the 42km Marathon from Velletri to the Mausoleo di Cecilia Metella in Rome; the 22km Half Marathon from Velletri to Castel Gandolfo; and lastly, the 12km Family Marathon from Nemi to Castel Gandolfo.

The event, organised by Italian Walking Tour Asd, included the territory of eight municipalities (Velletri, Nemi, Rocca di Papa, Albano Laziale, Castel Gandolfo, Marino, Ciampino and Rome); three parks: Parco Regionale dell’Appia Antica, Parco Archeologico dell’Appia Antica and Parco Regionale dei Castelli Romani and notable historic site, the Anfiteatro Romano of Albano Laziale.

A journey through history and nature, in the footsteps of ancient pilgrims, dedicated to fun and product of great teamwork on a territorial level.

“We, as an association, are very satisfied to have created this event, a project which we began ten months ago – explains Paolo Falsini, president of the Italian Walking Tour – If this first edition was successful, it was also thanks to the collaboration of the municipalities involved, as well as the parks, associations and many volunteers who enabled the event to run smoothly. We’re happy that through the South Francigena Marathon, hundreds of people of all ages discovered many beautiful hamlets, Roman Castles, the Via Appia Antica and the incredible passage along the Via Francigena of the South“.

“This first edition saw the presence of the Associazione Parkinson Giovanile Roma Onlus and the Comitato Italiano Associazioni Parkinson. Together with these Parkinson support groups was that of Bradirapidi, it was a lovely day of learning about healthy movement and the inclusion of such groups framed this first edition – says Isabella De Santis, co-organiser of the Italian Walking Tour – A contagious enthusiasm which even touches local administrator present at the event and even the youngest of participants – an 18 month-old-child. We lastly thank all our partners and sponsors who believed in the project. This first edition blew us away and we’re very satisfied, all that’s left to do is plan next year’s!“

Source: SFM press release