Pilgrimage Paths

Walking Via Francigena: From Canterbury to Rome: A Journey Through Christian Memory and Myth

Explore the Via Francigena, a historic pilgrimage route from Canterbury to Rome, offering spiritual growth, historical significance, and personal transformation.

The Operator

29 May 2025 — 18 min read

The Via Francigena is a 1,240-mile pilgrimage route from Canterbury, England, to Rome, Italy, that has been walked for over a thousand years. It connects five countries, hundreds of towns, and iconic landmarks like Canterbury Cathedral, the Great St. Bernard Pass, and St. Peter's Basilica. Originally documented in 990 AD by Archbishop Sigeric, this route blends history, spirituality, and personal transformation.

Why walk it today?

Spiritual Growth: Reflect, connect, and follow in the footsteps of medieval pilgrims.
Historical Significance: Explore cathedrals, monasteries, and ancient paths.
Physical and Emotional Challenge: Walk through stunning landscapes while overcoming personal hurdles.

Quick Facts:

Distance: 1,240 miles (~2,000 km)
Countries: England, France, Switzerland, Italy, and sometimes Belgium
Key Sites: Canterbury Cathedral, Great St. Bernard Pass, St. Peter's Basilica
Modern Use: 50,000 pilgrims walked parts of it in 2022.

Walking the Via Francigena isn't just a physical journey - it's a path to self-discovery, healing, and connection with history and faith.

The Historical Background of the Via Francigena

Via Francigena

A Path Through Medieval Europe

The Via Francigena traces its roots back to the Early Middle Ages, emerging around the 7th century during a time of significant political shifts. It began as a network of trails rather than a single road, created by the Lombards to link their kingdom in Pavia to their southern territories. These paths wound through the Apennines, Valle del Magra, Lucca, and Siena, eventually connecting to the ancient Via Cassia.

Initially called the "Via di Monte Bardone", the route underwent a transformation when the Franks overtook the Lombards as the dominant power. Its new name, Via Francigena, translates to "road that originates from France", reflecting both the political change and its growing role as a bridge between northern Europe and Rome.

By the turn of the first millennium, pilgrimage had become a widespread phenomenon. The Via Francigena emerged as a key route linking three of Christianity's most sacred destinations - Jerusalem, Santiago de Compostela, and Rome. More than just a spiritual path, it became a unifying thread in medieval Europe. Monasteries and abbeys along the route provided support for both pilgrims and merchants, forming a network that blended faith and commerce.

By the 13th century, the route had become so heavily traveled that it began to fragment into various paths connecting northern Europe to Rome. At its peak, records suggest thousands of pilgrims used the route daily, boosting local trade and creating a robust support system. This convergence of spiritual devotion, cultural exchange, and economic activity left a lasting imprint on Europe, giving the modern pilgrimage its deep sense of connection to history and purpose.

Important Historical Sites Along the Route

The Via Francigena is dotted with landmarks that serve as enduring reminders of Europe's spiritual and cultural history. These sites tell the story of medieval Christianity and the development of European civilization.

At the northern end of the route lies Canterbury Cathedral, a symbol of medieval faith and a starting point for countless pilgrims. Its significance as a spiritual hub has resonated for centuries.

Crossing the Alps, travelers encounter the Great St. Bernard Pass, which rises to about 8,100 feet above sea level. For over a thousand years, this pass has acted as a vital link between northern and southern Europe. Around 1050 AD, Saint Bernard of Menthon established a hospice here, offering shelter and assistance to travelers braving the harsh conditions. The pass itself, with its unforgiving winters, served as a humbling reminder of human frailty and the need for divine guidance.

In Italy, the route leads through Lucca, a city famous for its Romanesque churches and the revered Volto Santo (Holy Face), a wooden crucifix that attracted pilgrims from across Europe. The city's medieval walls and its repurposed Roman amphitheater provide a tangible connection to the layers of history embedded in the journey.

Siena, another key stop, welcomed pilgrims with its stunning cathedral and the lively Piazza del Campo. The city's prosperity during medieval times was closely tied to its position along the Via Francigena, a legacy still visible in its art and architecture.

The journey ultimately concludes at St. Peter's Basilica in Rome. Built over the tomb of Saint Peter, the basilica represents more than just a destination - it's a culmination of faith and transformation. Reaching this sacred site signifies not only the end of a physical journey but also a deeply personal and spiritual renewal.

These landmarks, rich in history and meaning, were integral to medieval Europe's spiritual and economic life. They formed a network that connected communities and cultures, leaving a legacy that continues to inspire modern pilgrims. This enduring connection between past and present underscores the Via Francigena's role in shaping European identity.

Via Francigena | Canterbury - Roma 2,000 km

Myths and Symbols Along the Pilgrimage

The Via Francigena weaves together centuries of sacred stories and mystical traditions, turning a physical trek into a profound spiritual experience. This ancient path offers more than just breathtaking landscapes - it invites pilgrims to connect with layers of faith, wonder, and a legacy of transformation.

Sacred Sites and Their Stories

The route is rich with Christian and pre-Christian symbolism, with churches, sanctuaries, and retreats standing as markers of both history and legend. These sites blend the sacred with the mysterious, creating a tapestry of stories that captivate travelers along the way.

Take the Sutri Archaeological Park in Lazio, for example. This site holds one of the most fascinating origin myths of the journey. According to legend, the city of Sutri was founded by Saturn, the god of agriculture, whose Etruscan name, Sutrinas, inspired the city’s name. The city’s coat of arms reflects this tale, depicting Saturn on horseback, offering a bundle of wheat as a symbol of fertility and peace. This imagery embodies the shift from conflict to abundance - a theme that resonates deeply with those seeking inner harmony.

In Tuscany, natural springs scattered along the trail also hold sacred meaning. For medieval pilgrims, these waters were seen as divine gifts with the power to heal both body and soul. Rising steam from the springs was thought to symbolize prayers ascending to the heavens, providing a serene refuge for weary travelers. Stories of supernatural events tied to these springs further add to the mystique of the journey.

Miracles and Mysticism on the Trail

The Via Francigena is steeped in tales of miracles and mystical encounters, infusing the path with a sense of wonder and anticipation. These stories, passed down through generations, continue to inspire those seeking spiritual connection.

One memorable legend revolves around the famous Est! Est!! Est!!! wine from Montefiascone. In 1111, as Henry V of Germany journeyed to Rome for his coronation, Cardinal Johannes Defuk instructed his servant to mark taverns with "Est" if they served good wine. Upon discovering an exceptional vintage in Montefiascone, the servant enthusiastically wrote "Est! Est!! Est!!!" The cardinal enjoyed the wine so much that he reportedly drank himself to death and was buried in the town. While humorous, this story reflects the tension between earthly indulgence and spiritual focus that pilgrims often navigate.

Another legend surrounds the Ponte della Maddalena, or the Devil’s Bridge. Tales of supernatural encounters at this crossing highlight the spiritual challenges medieval travelers faced, often testing their faith and resolve.

Throughout the journey, relics housed in churches and cathedrals - such as those of Santa Caterina da Siena and San Giovanni Battista - were believed to hold healing powers. Pilgrims who prayed before these sacred objects often reported miraculous recoveries, reinforcing the trail’s reputation as a place of divine intervention.

Even the art along the route tells its own mystical story. Carvings and frescoes featuring dragons, mermaids, and other fantastical creatures symbolize the spiritual struggles between temptation and salvation. These vivid images serve as reminders of the inner battles that pilgrims face as they seek renewal and enlightenment.

The Pilgrimage as a Journey of Change

The myths, symbols, and miraculous tales of the Via Francigena guide pilgrims through a journey of deep personal transformation. Walking the path becomes a sacred act, mirroring the soul’s quest for healing and enlightenment.

For many, the pilgrimage offers a rare opportunity to step outside the routines of modern life and embrace vulnerability - both physical and spiritual. This openness often leads to moments of childlike wonder and trust, allowing travelers to reconnect with their true selves in ways they never thought possible.

The challenges of the journey, from steep climbs to unpredictable weather, serve as powerful metaphors for life’s trials. These physical demands push pilgrims to reflect on their resilience and faith, fostering a sense of mindfulness and purpose. Along the way, simple symbols like the pilgrim’s staff, the shell, and humble clothing take on profound meaning, representing support, humility, and the commitment to continue - even in moments of doubt.

Ultimately, the Via Francigena unites all who walk its path, transcending time and boundaries. Each step weaves modern pilgrims into a timeless story, connecting them with the countless souls who have walked before, all seeking meaning, transformation, and connection.

Preparing for the Pilgrimage: Practical and Spiritual Guidance

Walking the Via Francigena is more than just a physical journey; it’s a test of both body and spirit. Success comes from thoughtful preparation that addresses the practical demands of long-distance walking while respecting the sacred nature of the experience.

Gear and Logistics You Need

Packing for the Via Francigena is a balancing act - taking what you need without overloading yourself. The key is simple: pack light and smart. Stick to carry-on luggage, limit your clothing to two or three days’ worth, and keep an emergency $100 USD on hand for unforeseen situations.

Your backpack will be your constant companion, so choose wisely. A 30–40 liter pack is ideal, offering enough space for essentials without being too heavy. For example, the Osprey Manta 34L, priced around $180, is a popular choice for pilgrims. Aim to keep the pack’s weight under 10% of your body weight - if you weigh 150 pounds, stay under 15 pounds.

Footwear is just as critical. Trail running shoes often outperform traditional hiking boots on this route, offering better ventilation, quicker drying, and more cushioning for varied terrain. Non-waterproof options are particularly useful for airflow and drying speed.

When it comes to clothing, layering is your best friend. Quick-drying fabrics like merino wool and polyester help manage temperature changes and wick away moisture. Pack a few smart-casual pieces for evenings, especially for group gatherings.

For accommodations like hostels, a solid sleep system is essential. Items like a lightweight sleeping bag liner, earplugs, and a sleep mask can make a big difference when linens aren’t provided.

Other must-haves include a first-aid kit focused on foot care (think blister bandages and moleskin), space-saving travel bags to organize your gear, a portable battery pack for your devices, and trekking poles for stability on tougher sections.

For U.S. travelers, remember that distances in Europe are measured in kilometers (1 mile ≈ 1.6 kilometers), and temperatures are in Celsius. A conversion app or reference card can be a handy tool.

Preparing physically is vital, but it’s also the gateway to a richer spiritual experience.

Spiritual Practices for the Journey

Once your gear is sorted, it’s time to focus inward. The Via Francigena is an invitation to leave behind daily distractions and embrace a more reflective mindset. Spiritual preparation starts well before your first step and continues throughout your journey.

Inner disciplines are the cornerstone of a meaningful pilgrimage. As Franciscan priest Richard Rohr puts it:

"Primarily, a pilgrimage is an individual matter between the person and God. It's not horizontal as much as vertical. The primary concern is that we make an interior journey and hopefully find a bigger God. Therefore, I want to encourage each of us to take time alone each day."

Daily practices like silence and solitude can help you tune into deeper spiritual insights. Even a few quiet minutes each day can make a difference.

Journaling is another powerful tool. Use it to document your thoughts, feelings, and any moments of divine connection you experience along the way.

At sacred sites along the route, take time for prayer and meditation. Whether you attend Mass, participate in Eucharistic Adoration, or simply sit quietly in a centuries-old church, these moments can deepen your connection to the divine.

Bringing along sacred reading materials, like scriptures or books on Christian pilgrimage, can also enrich your journey. Reflecting on these texts during breaks or sharing them with fellow travelers can offer new perspectives.

Pope Benedict XVI beautifully summarized the essence of pilgrimage:

"To go on pilgrimage is not simply to visit a place to admire its treasures of nature, art or history. To go on pilgrimage really means to step out of ourselves in order to encounter God."

Approach your journey with an open heart, free from cynicism or judgment. Be ready to encounter grace in unexpected places.

Handling the Challenges of the Route

The Via Francigena is not without its difficulties. Physical, emotional, and spiritual challenges are all part of the experience, but each one offers an opportunity for growth.

Physical challenges like muscle aches, fatigue, and tough terrain are inevitable. Preparing in advance by gradually increasing your walking distances and pack weight can make a big difference. Stretching regularly and focusing on foot care will also help prevent blisters and other discomforts.

Emotional challenges are just as real. The pilgrimage strips away the comforts of home - privacy, routine, and personal space - which can lead to emotional strain. Sleepless nights and long stretches of solitude may amplify these feelings.

Pilgrimage counselor Judit Szila highlights the emotional toll:

"Completing a 500 mile pilgrimage is as much an emotional challenge as it is physical. Just as it is immensely important to stretch daily and provide the body with daily maintenance so it can go on, it is equally important to provide emotional nurturance."

Mindfulness practices can help you stay grounded when emotions run high. Carry a keepsake, create an uplifting playlist, or schedule regular check-ins with loved ones to combat feelings of loneliness.

Interpersonal challenges may arise as well, given the diverse backgrounds of fellow pilgrims. These encounters can teach patience, tolerance, and compassion. Even difficult interactions can turn into valuable lessons if approached with an open mind.

To prepare mentally, set realistic expectations and focus on cultivating a positive outlook. Researching the route, landmarks, and local customs can help you feel more confident. Visualizing your success can also prepare you for any setbacks.

Lastly, don’t forget self-care. Whether it’s taking an extra rest day, enjoying a satisfying meal, or pausing to admire a beautiful view, celebrating small victories is just as important as planning for the road ahead.

Challenges are part of the pilgrimage, but they often lead to personal transformation. As Szila puts it:

"In all contexts challenges arise and the Camino de Santiago is no different. I believe the obstacles and challenges we are faced with are also the very sources of our growth."

The Via Francigena has the power to reshape you, offering wisdom, compassion, and a deeper spiritual connection.

How Pilgrimage Changes You

The Via Francigena isn’t just a route from Canterbury to Rome - it’s a journey that changes you on a deeper level. For centuries, this ancient path has been a source of spiritual renewal, inviting modern-day pilgrims to experience its transformative power.

Healing Through Sacred Landscapes

The trail winds through rolling hills, ancient forests, and serene valleys, offering a rhythm that soothes the soul and helps release emotional burdens. Walking these landscapes can reaffirm life’s beauty and provide space for inner healing.

Take the story of Guy Stagg, for instance. In 2012, battling depression and alcoholism, he set out on foot from London to Canterbury, continuing all the way to Jerusalem. Through the act of walking, he found healing, hope, and a renewed sense of purpose. The journey allowed him to find joy in small, everyday moments and the kindness of strangers.

Along the way, the route is dotted with churches, monasteries, and historic landmarks, each offering a glimpse into a rich spiritual and historical tapestry. Sitting quietly in an ancient chapel or lighting a candle in a monastery connects you to centuries of collective prayer and healing energy. Pilgrimage also invites you to confront human vulnerability and accept the kindness of others, a deeply restorative process. Every step on this journey helps clear emotional baggage and strengthens resilience, paving the way for profound personal growth.

This healing process ties you to the legacy of countless pilgrims who walked before you, making their strength and stories part of your own.

Connection to a Greater Story

Walking the Via Francigena links you to a timeless narrative of seekers searching for meaning and divine connection. When Archbishop Sigeric documented his journey in 990 AD to receive his pallium, he unknowingly created a guide for future pilgrims. Today, every step you take echoes the hopes and struggles of those who walked this path before.

This journey fosters mindfulness, resilience, and a sense of purpose. Facing challenges like exhaustion, uncertainty, and doubt - similar to those encountered by medieval pilgrims - can help you see your own struggles as part of a larger human experience. For example, a survey at York Minster revealed that while 90% of visitors didn’t intend to pray, nearly half were moved to light a candle or leave a written prayer. In sacred spaces like these, many discover a spiritual awakening they didn’t anticipate.

As Jennifer Andrewes beautifully described:

"Pilgrimage is a journey of transformation, not just of the body but of the soul. The Via Francigena offered me the gift of light - not just the physical light of sunrises and golden fields but the inner light of clarity, faith and hope."

By connecting to this greater story, you’re reminded that your personal challenges are part of an enduring human narrative. This sense of belonging energizes the modern revival of pilgrimage as a meaningful and sacred act.

Modern Pilgrimage as a Sacred Act

Today’s pilgrims are rediscovering an ancient practice while addressing modern needs. With 200 million people worldwide participating in some form of pilgrimage each year, this is far more than just travel - it’s a global spiritual movement.

The act of pilgrimage creates space for reflection, healing, and self-discovery. In a fast-paced, hyperconnected world, the Via Francigena offers a rare chance to slow down, live in the moment, and focus on the journey rather than the destination. It’s a break from daily routines, giving you time to think about what truly matters in life.

The physical benefits are just as compelling. Walking 12–18 miles a day through breathtaking landscapes - whether mountains, forests, or rivers - can reduce stress and improve mental well-being. The steady rhythm of walking helps shift your mindset from anxiety to calm presence.

The journey to Rome via the Via Francigena also serves as a bridge between past and present. With the Jubilee in 2025 expected to draw millions of pilgrims to Rome, walking this path allows you to be part of a historic moment while crafting your own sacred story. Many pilgrims return home with a renewed sense of purpose, a deeper connection to their spirituality, and a fresh appreciation for life. In this way, pilgrimage becomes more than a journey - it’s a sacred act that intertwines ancient traditions with modern life, leaving you forever changed.

Conclusion: Walking the Via Francigena as a Path to Awakening

The Via Francigena is more than just a long-distance trail - it's a walk through European history, a reflection of Christian heritage, and a journey of personal discovery spanning nearly 2,000 years. For centuries, this ancient path has welcomed pilgrims seeking something deeper, and today it continues to offer profound experiences to those who walk it.

Tullia Caballero, Director of Slowways, captures its essence perfectly:

"The Via Francigena is different from other long-distance trails because it has been in use for nearly 2000 years. This succession of civilizations, history, architecture, culture, traditions, food and wine, and the constantly changing landscape is a treasure trove for all your seven senses."

Her words paint a vivid picture of what awaits: a journey where every step immerses you in the echoes of faith, history, and human connection. The path invites you to slow down, reflect, and feel a bond with those who walked before you.

In recent years, the Via Francigena has seen a growing number of pilgrims rediscovering its magic. Since 2016, the trail has witnessed record participation, with about 40,000 people walking it that year alone - 79% of them choosing to experience it on foot rather than by vehicle. Interestingly, 60% of these travelers were motivated by something other than religious faith. This modern revival reflects a universal yearning for connection, purpose, and meaning.

You don’t need to start with the full journey from Canterbury to Rome to experience its impact. As Luca Faravelli, Project Manager at the European Association of Via Francigena Routes, advises:

"Embarking on a long walk is an experience I recommend to anyone, even if it is only for a few days. It's an activity that is good for the body and the spirit..."

Begin where you are - take regular walks, explore your local surroundings, and gradually build the stamina to take on more challenging terrain. Whether you choose a single stage in Tuscany or the entire pilgrimage, each step connects you to a legacy that spans centuries.

The Via Francigena offers a rare opportunity to bridge the gap between the sacred and the everyday, between history and the present. With every mile, you’ll uncover pieces of yourself while adding your own story to the countless others etched into this timeless path.

The stones are waiting. Are you ready to begin your journey?

FAQs

What inspires modern pilgrims to walk the Via Francigena from Canterbury to Rome?

Many people today are drawn to the Via Francigena because of its profound spiritual and historical roots. This ancient pilgrimage route, which dates back to the Middle Ages, connects England to Rome and carries centuries of Christian tradition. For some, walking this path is a deeply personal experience - a chance to reflect on their faith, seek inner healing, or gain clarity during a pivotal time in their lives.

But it’s not just about spirituality. The route also attracts those eager to reconnect with their heritage or immerse themselves in nature. As pilgrims pass through stunning landscapes and historic towns, they often find moments of quiet introspection and renewal. And while the journey is deeply personal, the shared experience with fellow travelers creates a sense of camaraderie, turning the trek into a collective adventure filled with meaningful connections.

How can I prepare physically and mentally for the challenges of walking the Via Francigena?

Preparing for the Via Francigena involves getting both your body and mind ready for the adventure. Start by establishing a walking routine at least three months before your trip. Gradually increase your distance, aiming to cover 8–15 miles a day. Include varied terrain, like hills, to better prepare for the challenges ahead. It's also crucial to train with the gear and footwear you'll use on the pilgrimage. Breaking them in beforehand can help prevent discomfort and avoid issues like blisters.

On the mental side, focus on building patience and resilience. Practices such as mindfulness, journaling, or even simple deep-breathing exercises can help you stay centered throughout the journey. Keep your expectations realistic - this isn't about racing to the finish line. The Via Francigena is as much about the personal growth and reflection along the way as it is about the physical trek. Embrace the ups and downs - they’re all part of what makes this experience so meaningful.

What are the most notable historical sites and legends along the Via Francigena, and how do they enrich the pilgrimage experience?

The Via Francigena is rich with history and lore, offering travelers a deep connection to Europe’s spiritual and historical roots. Among its standout landmarks is the Abbey of St. Peter in Aulla, renowned for its striking architecture and spiritual significance. Then there’s the Great St. Bernard Pass, an iconic Alpine route that has guided pilgrims for centuries. Another must-see is the Cathedral of St. Martin in Lucca, which houses the Volto Santo (Holy Face), a revered crucifix surrounded by tales of miracles.

The route is also brought to life by fascinating legends, like the journey of Sigeric the Serious, a 10th-century archbishop who meticulously recorded his pilgrimage along the path. Stories like the mysterious origins of the Volto Santo add layers of meaning, encouraging pilgrims to reflect on their own spiritual paths as they traverse landscapes steeped in history and significance.