The Via Francigena, also referred to as the Camino to Rome, offers an alternative to the popular Camino de Santiago routes. It is like stepping into a tapestry of European history and spirituality. For those looking to experience the Via Francigena, choosing the right starting point is crucial. Here, we explore some of the best cities to begin your pilgrimage, starting from those closest to Rome.
The Via Francigena
This ancient pilgrimage route invites modern-day adventurers on a voyage from the charming streets of Canterbury in England, across the channel to the rich landscapes of France and Switzerland, and through the heart of Italy, culminating in the eternal city of Rome. However, you can start your journey at any point along the way using our Camino de Santiago Planner.
What is Testimonium Certificate?
The famous certificate given after the completion of Via Francigena is called the Testimonium. You can receive it when you complete your pilgrimage into Rome from any distance over 100km. It is the equivalent of the famous Compostela for the Camino de Santiago. To request your Testimonium, remember to take your ‘credenziali’ or pilgrim passport and stamp it along the way in hotels, restaurants, churches, and monasteries.
Viterbo: A Medieval Gem
Nestled in the heart of Italy’s Lazio region, Viterbo stands as the gateway to the final leg of the Via Francigena towards Rome. Famous for its well-preserved medieval town centre, thermal springs, and the enchanting Palazzo dei Papi, Viterbo offers pilgrims a blend of cultural richness and spiritual tranquillity. Starting in Viterbo allows for a relatively short yet immersive experience, perfect for those with limited time but a deep desire to touch the essence of this ancient path. Beginning your pilgrimage in Viterbo (112km/ 70 miles from Rome) ensures you meet the criteria for receiving your Testimonium certificate, as it involves completing a 100km journey to Rome.
Discover The Route:
- Via Francigena from Viterbo to Rome the Last 100km.
Siena: The Heart of Tuscany
Moving northward, the enchanting city of Siena offers a splendid beginning to the Via Francigena journey. Known for its stunning medieval architecture, exemplified by the iconic Piazza del Campo and the majestic Siena Cathedral, this Tuscan city is a feast for the senses. The route from Siena to Rome (225km/ 140 miles) is dotted with rolling hills, vineyards, and quintessential Tuscan landscapes, providing a challenging yet incredibly rewarding experience for pilgrims. Siena can serve as either the beginning or the conclusion of your Via Francigena adventure.
Discover The Routes:
- Via Francigena from Siena to Rome – customise using our route planner.
- Via Francigena in Tuscany from Lucca to Siena in 1 week.
- Easy Via Francigena from San Miniato to Siena in 1 week.
San Miniato: A Hidden Treasure
A lesser-known gem located between Pisa and Florence, San Miniato serves as a unique starting point for those wishing to explore the spiritual and natural beauty of the Via Francigena. This historic town is perched atop three hills, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. Embarking from San Miniato to Rome (290km/ 180 miles), pilgrims can enjoy a journey through some of Tuscany’s most picturesque villages and landscapes, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a balance of cultural exploration and physical challenge. An alternative option is walking from San Miniato to Siena (85km/ 53 miles), instead of Rome.
Discover The Route:
- Easy walking on the Via Francigena from San Miniato to Siena in 1 week.
Lucca: A Serene Start
With its tranquil ambience and exquisite Renaissance walls, Lucca offers a serene and picturesque start to the Via Francigena. The city’s charming streets, filled with ancient churches and elegant palazzos, provide a peaceful beginning to the pilgrimage. The route from Lucca to Rome (419km/ 260 miles) encompasses diverse terrains, from the Apennine Mountains to the fertile plains of Tuscany, presenting pilgrims with a harmonious blend of natural and historical wonders. Choosing to walk from Lucca to Siena, covering 133km (83 miles), offers an alternative path to qualify for your Testimonium, instead of continuing onto Rome.
Discover The Routes:
- Via Francigena in Tuscany from Lucca to Siena in 1 week.
- Cycling the Via Francigena from Lucca to Rome.
- Walking the Via Francigena from Lucca to Rome – customise using our route planner.
Rome: The Eternal City
For some, the journey begins at the end. Starting in Rome and making the pilgrimage in reverse order provides a unique perspective on the Via Francigena. This approach allows travellers to experience the route as early pilgrims might have, journeying from the heart of Christianity outward into the diverse landscapes and cultures of Europe. Starting in Rome, although unconventional, opens doors to discover the route’s deep history and spirituality from a unique angle. It allows you to follow in the footsteps of myriad pilgrims, journeying backwards through time.
Discover The Route:
- Via Francigena from Rome – customise using our route planner.
- Via Francigena from Viterbo to Rome Last 100km.
- Full Via Francigena | From Lucca to Rome.
- Cycling the Via Francigena from Lucca to Rome.
Whichever city you choose as your starting point, the Via Francigena offers a profound journey through time, culture, and spirituality. Whether you’re drawn to the medieval streets of Viterbo, the Tuscan charm of Siena, the hidden treasures of San Miniato, the serene beauty of Lucca, or the historic reverse route from Rome, each starting point provides a unique window into the soul of this ancient pilgrimage.
For more information about the Via Francigena or any other Camino de Santiago routes or to book your Camino trip, contact us. Buen Camino!
