Tuscany, a land of countryside, vineyards, culture, and breathtaking landscapes. Among the many routes to explore in this magnificent region, one stands out as a pilgrimage destination even today: the
Via Francigena in Val D'Orcia. A journey through nature and medieval archaeology, taking us back in time.
Between Nature and History: Via Francigena
The
Via Francigena crosses various locations along its route, but the most significant stretches through
Tuscany, with its picturesque hills resembling a painting of soft colors. In the Middle Ages, this ancient road connected Rome to Canterbury and was used not only by travelers but also as a route for pilgrimage. Along the way, one can rediscover places described by
Dante Alighieri in his historical tales and the verses of the
Divine Comedy, as Dante himself hailed from Tuscany.
Via Francigena: The Comedy Comes to Life
As you walk along the
Via Francigena, you’ll notice how
Dante Alighieri’s Divine Comedy can come to life. The first stop on this route brings you to the
Pyramid of Montaperti, which Dante references in many verses. This area is characterized by its rolling hills, groves, and cypress trees, immersing you in the quintessential Tuscan countryside. A few hundred meters away lies the
Thermal Spring of Acqua Borra, with a travertine rock outcrop overlooking the ancient thermal bath.
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Val D'Orcia on Via Francigena
One of the most noteworthy stretches along Via Francigena is the
Val D'Orcia, one of Tuscany's most famous natural, artistic, and cultural parks. In July 2004, it was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The natural beauty of this park leaves every visitor breathless, with its rows of cypress trees along the ridges, wheat fields forming wave-like patterns, and farmhouses that make the landscape resemble a true work of art.
Along the Path of Via Francigena
Regarding the route, some sections have cobblestones; therefore, it’s not merely a dirt path but has been improved to allow for better passage. To embark on the Via Francigena, you can start at the trail in
Radicofani, a small medieval village. From there, you can reach
San Quirico and then
Ponte d’Arbia (approximately 27 kilometers). Following the subsequent stops, you'll encounter
Siena,
Monteriggioni,
San Gimignano,
Gambassi Terme,
San Miniato,
Altopascio,
Lucca,
Pietrasanta,
Avenza,
Aulla,
Pontremoli, and finally, the ultimate stop at
Passo della Cisa, spanning a total distance of approximately
398 kilometers.
The Enchanting Notes of Via Francigena
It may seem trivial, but walking the Via Francigena is genuinely enchanting—not just for its magnificent landscapes but for the journey itself. It allows you to discover nature in its purest beauty. Traveling with companions lets you have meaningful conversations, while walking alone offers moments to free your mind, granting a sense of inner peace. This is a journey to undertake at least once in a lifetime, to rediscover yourself. Furthermore, walking is one of the best ways to explore this still-authentic and captivating part of Tuscany. Visit our website
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