On the Path of Francis: A Journey Between Nature and Interiority

On the Path of Francis: A journey between nature and introspection

For trekking enthusiasts, for those who walk to connect with nature, and for those who use walking to rediscover a more inner dimension, this is the right year to walk the Franciscan paths.

There isn't just one path, but a network of roads that cross different territories and all lead to the same center: Assisi. There are primarily four official and most popular routes.

The 4 official Franciscan paths

1. The Way of St. Francis (The "Classic")

It is the best known and is divided into two branches:

• Northern Way: Starts from La Verna (Arezzo) and descends for about 190 km (10 stages).
• Southern Way: Starts from Rome (St. Peter's Basilica) and ascends towards Assisi (250 km, 14 stages).

2. Rimini – La Verna

It crosses the Valmarecchia: a shorter route (about 110 km) but very intense, connecting the Adriatic to the Apennines.

3. Here Francis Passed

It extends from La Verna to Poggio Bustone and continues towards the Gargano, uniting the places of the Saint with those of the Archangel Michael.

4. The Way of the Franciscan Protomartyrs

A loop of about 100 km in the territory of Terni, less known but rich in spiritual meaning.

Places that remain in your heart

What makes this journey unique are the stops that mark the pace:

• Sanctuary of La Verna: Where Francis received the stigmata; a place of immediate power.
• Gubbio: With its medieval charm and the famous story of the wolf.
• Hermitage of the Carceri: Above Assisi, for an experience of silence that "can be heard."
• Holy Valley of Rieti: The sanctuaries of Greccio (where the first nativity scene was born), Fonte Colombo, La Foresta, and Poggio Bustone.
• Marmore Falls: A scenic stop for those coming from the South.

Tradition and Practice: The Credential

Walking along these paths means entering a centuries-old tradition. The Credential (the "pilgrim's passport") accompanies you everywhere: stamped in churches or tourist offices, it allows you to obtain the Testimonium, the official certificate of the journey, in Assisi.

Curiosity: Many of these paths follow ancient Roman roads or transhumance routes. Francis did not trek: he traveled to meet others.

Organizing the trip: Where to sleep and what to bring

Accommodation

• Pilgrim (10–15€): Convents and parishes. Essential and shared spaces, the most authentic soul of the journey.
• Tourist (30–50€): B&B and agriturismos with special rates for those showing the Credential, for greater comfort.

For detailed maps, stages, and all practical information on the routes: www.viadifrancesco.it

The Backpack (10% Rule)

The weight should not exceed 10% of your body weight. The essentials are:

• Tested shoes and technical changes of clothes.
• Marseille soap and blister plasters.
• Rain cape and power bank.

A journey of meaning

Walking these paths is not just about traversing places, but choosing what to take with you, step by step. Everything superfluous is left behind.

Also for this reason, if you want to give shape to what you experience along the way, the Pilgrim's items inspired by Saint Francis of Assisi can accompany you in a simple way, becoming part of your way of experiencing the journey, without adding weight, but meaning.

🔗 Discover the Saint Francis collection