The Testimonium is a document that certifies the completion of a pilgrimage to Rome undertaken in a religious spirit. This is the counterpart of the “Compostela”, which is obtained on completion of the Camino de Santiago. Historically this document was important because when the pilgrim returned home he could prove that the pilgrimage was fulfilled, and his vows discharged. For pilgrims along the Via Francigena in Southern Italy, it is also possible to obtain a testimonium in Brindisi and Santa Maria di Leuca.
How to obtain the Testimonium in Rome
The Testimonium is only given to pilgrims who present a credential showing stamps for at least the last 100 km for walkers or the last 200 km for cyclists.
The Testimonium is available:
At the Basilica of Saint Peter’s.
To receive the testimonium, simply go to the Reception Point at the Basilica and show the staff on duty your pilgrim credential. To access the pilgrims’ reception point, you may use a facilitated access route, called “Percorso Preghiera” (Prayer Route), which can be found on the right hand side of the the Basilica indicated by special yellow signs.
After the security check by the Italian Police, following the route indicated by the signs, the reception point will be located inside the cloakroom of the Basilica after the stained glass window.
At the reception point, besides receiving the Testimonium, pilgrims can fill out a questionnaire about their journey for statistical purposes, deposit their backpacks, use the restrooms and access both St. Peter’s Basilica and the Sacred Vatican Grottoes (opening time: 9:00 am, closing time: 5:45 pm).
The reception point is open from 7:30 am to 6:30 pm every day. On Wednesdays (if there is a Papal Audience in the Square) from 1:00 pm to 6:30. In addition, a Pilgrim’s Mass is celebrated every day at 6:00 pm at the Altar of the Cathedra.
For communications and reservations, please contact the appropriate office:
- email: accoglienza@fsp.va
- Tel: +39 06 6982 (switchboard) and ask for extension 82137
- Cellphone: +39 366 5775511
How to obtain the Testimonium in Brindisi
In Brindisi you can pick up your testimonium at the Accademia degli Erranti, the Statio Peregrinorum of the Via Francigena, located in Via Giovanni Tarantini 35 at the Ex Convento delle Scuole Pie, a wonderful monumental venue where the association “Brindisi e le Antiche Strade” offers many services for pilgrims, wayfarers and walkers.
You can request the testimonium if you have traveled at least 100 km on foot or 200 km by bicycle.
To reserve your Testimonium, please contact the office by sending an email to: br.antichestrade@gmail.com or write a whatsapp message to the local contact person: +39 3881130368 (Antonio Melcore).
It is important to notify at least a couple of days in advance so that your arrival date can be put in the agenda. Statio Peregrinorum is open from 10 a.m.-12 p.m. and 4 p.m.-8 p.m. Monday through Saturday. (Book your arrival at least a couple of days in advance so you will be welcomed).
How to obtain the Testimonium in Santa Maria di Leuca
For pilgrims arriving by foot or by bike, the PCE De Finibus Terrae foundation, in collaboration with the Pontificia Basilica Santuario of Santa Maria di Leuca, prepared a Testimonium: a certificate granted at the end of a pilgrimage.
The Testimonium is released upon showing your stamped credential demonstrating that you have walked at least 100 km (at least from Lecce) or cycled at least 200 km (at least from Bari).
You can collect your Testimonium at the Basilica-Santuario di S. Maria De Finibus Terrae. You can also reserve it before arrival by sending an e-mail at testimonium@camminidileuca.it and attaching a photocopy of your ID or passport and a scan of your pilgrim credential which will also be presented in the sacristy. You will then receive your Bonus Testimonii, to be presented upon arrival. More information:Â www.camminidileuca.it
You can buy your official credential by clicking here
