Author: Redazione AEVF

The European Association of the Via Francigena Ways (EAVF) joined 48 other certified Cultural Routes at the annual Training Academy, held this year in Torres Vedras, Portugal. The 2025 edition was hosted by the Destination Napoleon Route and Iter Vitis, with support from the European Institute of Cultural Routes (EICR) and the Council of Europe. 

The venue lies at the crossroads of the two hosting Cultural Routes: a region known for its historic forts built against the Napoleonic invasion and its rich viticultural heritage, which still shapes the local landscape and economy. 

Focusing on Cooperation, the Academy brought together over 80 participants from more than 30 Council of Europe member states, providing an invaluable space for dialogue, exchange of best practices, and new partnerships. 

The Via Francigena, represented by European Project Manager Elena Dubinina, shared its EU-funded HIKE and DETOUR projects as examples of successful inter-route collaboration. During the opening plenary session, EAVF, together with the European Federation of St. James Way represented by President Idelfonso de la Campa Montenegro, presented their cooperation agreement and the memorandum of cooperation between the regions of Galicia and Lazio—highlighting the shared commitment to strengthen ties between the two destinations. As a concrete outcome of this collaboration, both organisations will co-host a joint event at the European Parliament on 7 October 2025 in Strasbourg. 

The next important appointment for the Cultural Routes network will be the Annual Advisory Forum on Cultural Routes, which will take place in Turkey from 22 to 24 October 2025 — a country where the EAVF already actively collaborates through the HIKE and DETOUR projects.  

1,000 kilometres on foot along the Via Francigena: Davide Fiz and the Smart Walking project arrive in Rome – but the journey isn’t over yet!

Davide Fiz, founder of the Smart Walking project, reached Rome on 22 June, marking a key milestone in his long and meaningful journey along the Via Francigena.

Setting off last March from the picturesque Great St Bernard Pass (read more here), Fiz walked approximately 1,000 kilometres – a feat that also resulted in a saving of around 160 kg of CO₂ emissions compared to an equivalent car journey. A concrete action that underlines not only the symbolic value of walking, but also its ecological and environmental potential.

WALKING AS A WAY OF LIFE

Davide’s journey, undertaken as an EAVF Ambassador for the Jubilee Year 2025, is a powerful example of how walking can become a genuine lifestyle. He successfully combined the ability to work remotely with the slow discovery of Italy’s landscapes – yet his experience went far beyond that.

Over the past few months, Davide has actively participated in numerous meetings along the route, engaging with local authorities, associations, and businesses operating along the path. He has built meaningful connections and enthusiastically promoted the potential of sustainable tourism and the enhancement of the regions crossed by the Via Francigena.
Now the journey continues: Davide will walk the southern stretch of the route all the way to Santa Maria di Leuca, where he is expected to arrive on 12 October.

MORE THAN JUST KILOMETRES: A BRIDGE OF IDEAS AND OPPORTUNITIES

Fiz’s walk is not just about the distance covered; it’s a deep immersion into culture, history and nature – contributing actively to environmental sustainability and the strengthening of local networks.

The Via Francigena itself proves to be a powerful connector of people and ideas, as EAVF’s late founder Massimo Tedeschi – who passed away exactly one year ago – often said. It also serves as a hotbed for entrepreneurial opportunities, particularly for tourism-related businesses along the route. European initiatives such as the Detour project confirm this, highlighting the vital link between mindful travellers and the development of a local, ethical and environmentally conscious economy.

Davide Fiz’s arrival in Rome is not only the fulfilment of a personal challenge; it marks a pivotal moment in reaffirming the value of walking as a mindful, sustainable form of travel that benefits both communities and the environment.

“It’s been a journey through time and space. From the snow and chill of the Great St Bernard Pass to the sweltering heat of Rome, through hills, plains, historic cities, resilient villages and towns. I walked across Italy, I breathed it in, I met its people and stepped into their homes. Rome is only a midway stop – my Via Francigena continues all the way to the sea at Santa Maria di Leuca.”
– Davide Fiz

👉 CLICK HERE TO DISCOVER THE FULL ITINERARY OF DAVIDE’S JOURNEY

A wonderful promotional campaign for the Via Francigena is currently underway in Calais, focusing on the first French section of the European route.

The Department and the Municipality of Calais, together with the AMVPAC association (Association for the Enhancement of the Architectural Heritage of Calais), are carrying out numerous projects and initiatives. These include an official stamp, signage, efforts to enhance the route through the city, and support for welcoming pilgrims, whose numbers are steadily increasing internationally.

The iconic Francigena pilgrim arrives in the city… by sea!

The route is already marked in the city with ground plaques and signage from the Fédération Française de la Randonnée Pédestre (FFRP). It is now also accompanied by the image of the famous yellow pilgrim figure at life-size — just like in other sections of the Via Francigena, such as in the Lazio region of Italy.

Creativity is alive in Calais: some new installations show the symbolic pilgrim silhouette inside a boat, representing Sigeric’s journey from France to England, specifically from Calais to Dover across the English Channel.

Where to spot the pilgrim in a boat

The first pilgrim figure (on foot) was placed at the official starting point of Stage 1 of the Via Francigena in France, at the Church of Notre-Dame de Calais. This church, built in English Perpendicular Gothic or Tudor style — the only one of its kind on the continent — was the venue for the wedding of General Charles de Gaulle, first President of the French Fifth Republic, and Yvonne Vendroux in April 1921.

Further along the way, another pilgrim — this time in a boat — has been placed on the Calais seawall, symbolically accompanying walkers and evoking the crossing from England in a flobart, a small traditional fishing boat of the Côte d’Opale.

The same flobart installation can also be found beside the church in the village of Wissant, which also lies along Stage 1 of the GR®145 Via Francigena.

The Inauguration

To celebrate the unveiling of the new installations, the Pas-de-Calais Department, the City of Calais, Calais Tourist Office, and AMVPAC organised a walk along the first French section of the Via Francigena in early April, bringing together around sixty walkers.

These initiatives confirm the growing commitment to making the Via Francigena in France increasingly well-known and appreciated!

The European Association of the Via Francigena Ways is pleased to announce the renewal of its partnership with Banca Generali Private for 2025. This important confirmation further strengthens the shared commitment to promoting slow, mindful tourism that respects and enhances the local territory.

Active since 2017, the collaboration has played a key role in elevating the Via Francigena as a European route that brings together culture, environmental sustainability, local development, and intercultural dialogue. For 2025, EAVF and Banca Generali will continue to support initiatives aimed at:

• Promoting the network of regions, municipalities, and walkers;
• Strengthening educational and cultural initiatives along the route;
• Supporting digital innovation and information accessibility;
• Raising awareness around environmental sustainability.

ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES AND THE 2030 AGENDA

A key goal of the renewed agreement is to bring people closer to environmental issues and to the value of caring for the land—principles long championed by the Via Francigena and fully aligned with Banca Generali’s vision.

“Our bank has always been committed to environmental and social sustainability,” says Alessandro Mauri, Sales Manager for the North-West Network at Banca Generali. “We offer investment solutions aligned with the United Nations 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), allowing our clients to build portfolios that prioritise specific SDGs. In this way, we are not only financially supporting the route but also helping to spread a culture of sustainability as a legacy for future generations.
Similarly, we have long promoted financial education across all age groups and a more sustainable lifestyle for younger people—encouraging sports, the value of saving, and healthy, outdoor living, all of which are perfectly embodied by this kind of initiative.”

SUSTAINABLE TOURISM AND LOCAL COMMUNITIES

The real challenge lies in fostering a more sustainable and conscious approach to tourism, through travel modes such as walking or cycling. These not only minimise environmental impact, but also bring tangible benefits to local communities—generating immediate economic returns through the presence of pilgrims, and long-term impact, as those who walk the Via Francigena often choose to return as responsible tourists.

From 1 February 2025, a new figure welcomes pilgrims to the historic English Cathedral

In recognition of the growing importance of pilgrimage, Canterbury Cathedral has appointed Torin Brown as its new Pilgrim Officer, with the role officially in effect from 1 February 2025. This newly created post marks the first time in recent memory that the Cathedral has had a dedicated representative for pilgrims—both those arriving at Canterbury and those setting off on their journey along the Via Francigena towards Rome.

Torin is no stranger to Canterbury Cathedral. Following a life-changing pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela in 2019, he returned to Canterbury to study theology and began working at the Cathedral as a student. Deeply moved by his own experience as a pilgrim, Torin began personally welcoming those arriving in the city, offering them a passport stamp, a walk to the Pilgrim Stone, and—when requested—a blessing. “Many pilgrims arrive full of mixed emotions: joy at reaching their destination, and sadness that the journey is over,” he explains. “That’s where a warm and personal welcome can make all the difference.”

Born and raised near Canterbury, with a professional background in television and film, and a lifelong passion for music, Torin is a familiar face in the Cathedral community. In his new role, he aims to establish a dedicated pilgrim office within the Cathedral: a space where visitors can check in, receive their stamp, enjoy a coffee, share their journey, and receive spiritual support.

A central focus will be the legacy of Sigeric, the Archbishop of Canterbury whose 10th-century travel journal laid the foundations for the modern Via Francigena. Torin also plans to promote the meaning of pilgrimage today through exhibitions, talks, and cultural events.

Those setting off for Rome are often met with a blend of excitement, emotion, and, as Torin puts it, “happy nerves.” His advice for departing pilgrims? “Ask for me when you arrive! I’ll stamp your pilgrim passport, help arrange a blessing with our chaplain, and walk you to the Zero Stone for a photo to share on Instagram: @canterburypilgrims.”

And what about Chaucer’s Canterbury Tales—do they still hold relevance today? “I believe they do,” says Torin. “Modern pilgrimage is about communitas—the spontaneous, meaningful connection between strangers who share a common goal. It’s about stories, meals, and moments shared along the way.”

Torin’s favourite spot within the Cathedral? “The crypt, where I often reflect on St Anselm and his ontological argument. There’s something incredibly powerful about sitting in a place where he once walked and thought.”
And outside? “The Thomas Tallis pub, just past Northgate. I love his music—especially Spem in alium—and to me, pilgrimage pairs perfectly with a good pint of English ale.”

📩 Contact: pilgrims@canterbury-cathedral.org
📍 In person: Ask for Torin at the Cathedral Bookshop
🔗 Pilgrimage info: canterbury-cathedral.org/worship/pilgrimage
📘 English guide to the Via Francigena: Cicerone Guide – Part 1

From 13 to 15 June 2025, the European Association of the Via Francigena Ways will be taking part in the new edition of the Grandes Heures Nature Festival in Besançon. This must-attend event dedicated to outdoor sports will be held in the Parc Chamars, in the heart of the city, and will offer a rich programme combining sporting competitions, events, beginners’ courses and new experiences. Eight major sporting events are on offer, ranging from trail running to paddle boarding, climbing, mountain biking and even a gourmet walk.

In this dynamic and festive setting, the Via Francigena will be taking place in a space dedicated to the exploration of long-distance hiking trails, cycling adventures and slow tourism. The EAVF will have a stand there and will be promoting the route to the public with a very special feature: a major competition to win a Ferrino hiking bag, one of the EAVF’s sporting partners. 

Last year, almost 22.000 visitors took part in the Festival, and visitors are becoming increasingly familiar with the route. We hope that this new edition will bring back even more participants, nature lovers and hiking enthusiasts.

For more information on the Festival visit www.grandes-heures-nature.fr/festival-2025/

photo credits www.grandes-heures-nature.fr/festival-2025/

On Monday, 3 June 2025, the staff of the European Association of the Via Francigena Ways gathered in Fidenza, in Emilia-Romagna region, for an important meeting focused on shaping the strategic plan for the 2026–2028 period. 

Key Themes of the Meeting 

The session was marked by active group work and strong collaboration among participants. Central to the discussion was the need to strengthen communication and connections between the Association, local municipalities, the Friends of the Via Francigena, local authorities, and all those involved along the route. The aim is to build an even more cohesive and dynamic network throughout the territory. 

Another key focus was the European dimension of the route. The Via Francigena is not only a spiritual and cultural journey, but also a tangible symbol of transnational cooperation, uniting regions and communities through shared values. This is clearly demonstrated by European projects such as HIKE and DETOUR, in which EAVF plays an active role. 

Throughout the day, participants also explored ways to improve the experience of both pilgrims and organisations operating along the route. Discussion centred on delivering more efficient services, fostering open dialogue, and creating tools for participation. Particular emphasis was placed on the crucial role of local small and medium-sized enterprises, which contribute significantly to the path’s economy by offering hospitality, food, support, and authentic experiences—while also benefiting directly from the tourism generated by the Via Francigena. 

A specific focus was dedicated to sustainability. The need emerged for concrete tools to measure and communicate the environmental, social, and economic impact of the route, making its value as a model for slow and responsible tourism ever more visible and tangible. 

Finally, strategies were discussed to better engage local authorities along the route and to enhance the visibility and importance of the official Via Francigena Pilgrim Passport—not only as a means of identification for walkers, but also as a cultural and spiritual symbol of the journey. 

The day concluded with a convivial toast, where participants shared a glass of Champagne Blanc de Noirs “Champagne de Barfontarc”, brought directly from the recent General Assembly held in Troyes—a fitting tribute to the European spirit that continues to define the Via Francigena. 

The city of Montefiascone, in close collaboration with the European Association of the Via Francigena Ways, the Via Romea Germanica Association, and the Via Romea Strata Association, organised the event “On the Way to the Jubilee 2025” on the 30th and 31st of May 2025.

The year 2025 marks a Holy Year, and it is in this context that the three Romean routes came together in Montefiascone, located just 100 kilometres from the tomb of Saint Peter. Montefiascone is the point where the Via Romea Germanica merges with the Via Francigena, in front of the Basilica of San Flaviano.

It was in this very symbolic city that, in 2005, a landmark event took place for the EAVF network, when the members’ assembly voted to transform the organisation into the European Association of the Via Francigena Ways. This marked an opening towards international routes leading to Jerusalem, going beyond the traditional Sigeric itinerary.

On Friday 30th May, in the distinguished Innocent III Hall of the Rocca dei Papi, renowned scholars of pilgrimage, archaeologists, anthropologists, and representatives of the three routes—Via Francigena, Romea Strata, and Romea Germanica—came together for a day of discussion.

The academic programme included contributions from Carlo Mambriani, coordinator of the EAVF Scientific Committee; Giovanni Caselli, representing the Via Romea Strata; and Sara Zanni, advisor to the Minister for Tourism on pilgrimage routes. A written address by Renato Stopani on the historical evolution of Sigeric’s route was also read aloud.

As for the project-based presentations, speakers included Sami Tawfik from the EAVF, Viola Gaudiano from the Romea Strata, and Massimiliano Zocchi and Alberto Metendi from the Romea Germanica.

During the conference, a poignant tribute was paid to the late EAVF President, Massimo Tedeschi. A commemorative plaque was unveiled by the municipal administration in his honour, with the Mayor, Giulia De Santis, and Councillor Renato Trapè in attendance. This moment of remembrance was shared symbolically with EAVF President Francesco Ferrari, Director Luca Bruschi, and Project Manager Sami Tawfik.

At the conclusion of the conference, the local food and wine specialities of the Tuscia region were showcased in collaboration with Coldiretti. The evening ended with a classical music concert, organised by the “Domus Musica” Association.

On Saturday 31st May, a gathering of pilgrims from various regions took place in front of the Basilica of San Flaviano. After a greeting and blessing by the Bishop of the Diocese of Viterbo, Monsignor Orazio Francesco Piazza, and the titular Archbishop of Montefiascone, Monsignor Fabio Fabene, participants visited the Exhibition on Pilgrimage, held on the upper floor of the Basilica. The day concluded with a walk along the Via Francigena, accompanied by historical re-enactors from Montefiascone’s traditional parade, leading to the Co-Cathedral of Santa Margherita, a designated Jubilee Church.