Every year, more and more pilgrims and hikers take on the famous Via Francigena, a path steeped in history that traverses breathtaking landscapes and ancient villages. But this route is much more than just a historical itinerary; it is a journey that awakens the soul. Walking these paths means treading the same roads as once pilgrims, but also embarking on an inner journey in search of oneself. It's an experience that inspires reflection, personal growth, and a profound reconnection with nature and our most authentic essence. The overwhelming beauty of the scenery, spontaneous encounters along the way, and the hospitality of local inhabitants bring us back to the simplicity of life and teach us the precious value of sharing. Staying in a tent under a starry sky will undoubtedly add an authentic touch to the journey, enriching the travel experience and making it even more memorable.
The Via Francigena - A historical and spiritual journey
The Via Francigena is an ancient route that crosses Europe from Canterbury to Rome, originally traced by the British Archbishop Sigeric in 990 during his journey from Rome to Canterbury. This itinerary, approximately 2,300 kilometers long, with a thousand kilometers in Italy, is recorded in a Latin document housed at the British Library in London. Recently, the Via Francigena del Sud has also been added, a route of 900 kilometers from Rome to Santa Maria di Leuca in Puglia, following the traces of an anonymous pilgrim from Bordeaux in the 4th century. Crossing England, France, Switzerland, and Italy, the Via Francigena offers breathtaking landscapes, historic cities, and sacred sites, bearing witness to centuries of cultural and religious exchanges.
The Call of the Via Francigena - A contemporary pilgrimage
In recent years, more and more people have undertaken the journey along the Via Francigena, thanks in part to the enormous promotional effort made by the EAVF (European Association of the Via Francigena), officially authorized by the Council of Europe. The motivations driving the many walkers to travel the ancient route are diverse. Some are motivated by spiritual reasons, eager to follow in the footsteps of medieval pilgrims and seek a deep connection with their faith. Others seek adventure and personal challenges, desiring to overcome their physical and mental limits along a path rich in trials and rewards. Some embark on this journey to explore European history and culture, immersing themselves in landscapes and millennia-old traditions along the way. Regardless of individual motivations, the Via Francigena certainly offers a unique and transformative experience for anyone who decides to walk it.
Hospitality and sharing along the Via Francigena – The exclusive proposals of Garden Sharing.
During the journey along the Via Francigena, finding welcoming places is essential. Garden Sharing offers pitches and other open air solutions along the entire route, providing a unique experience, perhaps under a starry sky! Here are some of the facilities available along the Via Francigena:
- Relaxation Corner on the Via Francigena: Immersed in greenery and tranquility, away from the city's chaos, this corner offers an oasis of peace and relaxation in the Piacenza valleys. Ideal for rejuvenating after a long day of walking.
- In the Heart of the Via Francigena under the Stars: A beautiful green area with tent pitches, in the heart of an olive grove, along the road connecting San Lorenzo Nuovo to Bolsena. Pilgrims can enjoy an outdoor or private solar shower, pillows, blankets, a barbecue, and everything needed for a comfortable shelter along the Via Francigena.
- Camping in Tuscia Laziale: Located in one of Italy's most picturesque regions, this campsite is set in a charming countryside environment, characterized by stone courtyards, a well-kept garden, and a pleasant countryside atmosphere. Here, pilgrims have the opportunity to fully immerse themselves in the beauty and history of Tuscia Laziale.
- Suspended Tents among the Trees: Inside a private pine forest, along the Via Francigena del Sud, near the city of Brindisi, pilgrims can experience a unique and adventurous experience. In this unusual camp, suspended tents among the trees are provided, allowing walkers to live the dream of a treehouse with eyes wide open.