Walk The Way of St. Francis - A Pilgrimage of Faith
The Way of St. Francis pilgrimage route Italy(Cammino di San Francesco)
The Way of St. Francis pilgrimage route Italy is a path of beauty and reflection. Starting in Rome, you’ll visit world-famous sites like St. Peter’s Basilica and the Basilica of St. John Lateran before stepping into the quiet countryside.
From there, you’ll walk through picturesque villages, cross ancient bridges, and follow winding trails leading to the spiritual heart of this journey—Assisi, the home of St. Francis himself.
But don’t stop there! Keep going to the Sanctuary of La Verna, where St. Francis received the stigmata. This sacred site, nestled in the mountains of Tuscany, offers a truly peaceful retreat.
Starting Point
Rome Before embarking on the journey, pilgrims should visit:
St. Peter’s Basilica (Vatican City, Rome) – The spiritual heart of Catholicism, where pilgrims can seek blessings for their journey.
Basilica of St. John Lateran – The official cathedral of the Pope and one of the oldest churches in Rome.
Rome to Rieti (Approx. 80 km, 4–5 days)
Day 1: Rome to Monterotondo (24 km)
Start early to avoid city traffic.
Highlights: Leave Rome through quiet streets, passing historic sites.
Terrain: Mostly urban and suburban roads leading to countryside paths.
Day 2: Monterotondo to Poggio Moiano (22 km)
A shift to more rural settings, rolling hills, and olive groves.
Overnight stay in a small village with local accommodations.
Day 3: Poggio Moiano to Rieti (34 km)
More challenging day with forest trails and scenic countryside.
Arrival in Rieti, a significant Franciscan town with ancient churches.
Rieti to Assisi (Approx. 100 km, 5–6 days)
Day 4: Rieti to Poggio Bustone (18 km)
Visit the Sanctuary of Poggio Bustone, where St. Francis received divine forgiveness.
Steep inclines but rewarding views.
Day 5: Poggio Bustone to Arrone (23 km)
A mix of dirt paths and small roads.
Stop at medieval villages with Franciscan heritage.
Day 6: Arrone to Spoleto (27 km)
Pass through the Valnerina Valley, rich in natural beauty.
Visit Spoleto, a cultural and artistic hub.
Day 7: Spoleto to Trevi (22 km)
Rolling hills and a picturesque approach to Trevi, known for olive oil.
Accommodation in monasteries or local guesthouses.
Day 8: Trevi to Assisi (30 km)
The final stretch towards Assisi, with a stop at Eremo delle Carceri, a place of solitude where St. Francis prayed.
Arrival at the Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi, where his tomb is located.
Assisi to La Verna (Approx. 100 km, 5–6 days)
Day 9: Assisi to Gubbio (35 km)
A longer stage, passing through hills and forests.
Visit the Church of San Francesco in Gubbio, where St. Francis tamed a wolf.
Day 10: Gubbio to Pietralunga (23 km)
A quiet and remote section with forest trails.
Rest at local agriturismo accommodations.
Day 11: Pietralunga to Città di Castello (27 km)
More gentle walking with a mix of farmland and small villages.
Explore the charming town of Città di Castello.
Day 12: Città di Castello to Sansepolcro (23 km)
Gradual ascent into Tuscany.
Historical town with artistic heritage.
Day 13: Sansepolcro to La Verna (28 km)
The final stretch towards the Sanctuary of La Verna, where St. Francis received the stigmata.
A deeply spiritual place for reflection and prayer.
Start Your Adventure!
So, hey there, fellow traveler! If you’re looking for a journey filled with history, faith, and breathtaking landscapes, you’ve come to the right place. Walking in the footsteps of St. Francis of Assisi isn’t just about covering miles—it’s about experiencing a pilgrimage like no other. Picture yourself wandering through rolling hills, charming medieval villages, and peaceful forests, all while discovering the deep spiritual legacy of one of history’s most beloved saints, St. Francis pilgrimage route Italy.
