Author: Redazione AEVF

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. 

In recent years, the number of people choosing to travel by bicycle along the Via Francigena has been steadily rising. This trend reflects the broader boom in cycle tourism across Europe, with over 23 million bike trips recorded annually in the EU, according to data from the European Cyclists’ Federation. The total economic impact is estimated at €44 billion.

Who are the Francigena Cycle Travellers?

They are mostly adults, often aged between 35 and 60, travelling in pairs or small groups. They seek authentic experiences and close contact with the local area. Many take on the route for cultural, spiritual or sporting reasons, with an increasing awareness of environmental sustainability. According to research by CBI Netherlands, these travellers tend to prefer the support of specialist operators to help organise routes, logistics, and luggage transport.

What do they look for along the way?

Those who choose to cycle the Via Francigena need:

• Bike-friendly accommodation, equipped with secure bike storage, repair kits and energy-boosting breakfasts.
• Luggage transport and bike rental services.
• Quick and local refreshment stops, such as small cafés, farm stays or food trucks.
• Clear signage and up-to-date information on the cycle route.

Spanning four countries – England, France, Switzerland, and Italy – the Via Francigena is an ideal route for cultural cycle tourism, offering stunning landscapes and a wealth of historical heritage, as confirmed by data collected in 2024. The Italian section, in particular, is becoming increasingly well-equipped for cycle travellers, thanks not only to a dedicated app but also to projects like Detour – a three-year initiative funded by the European Union promoting accessibility, innovation, and inclusivity along historic routes. It also supports the promotion and financing of small and medium-sized enterprises involved in the development of the route.

An Opportunity for Local Communities and Businesses

Investing in services for cycle travellers means fostering local development. This is evident in successful examples such as the Rota Vicentina in Portugal, which expanded its focus to include cycle tourists, generating €15 million in revenue and creating 1,400 new jobs in sectors such as bike rental, light catering, and guided tours.

In Italy too, there is a growing number of local businesses offering tailored services for two-wheeled travellers, often in collaboration with official walking and cycling routes.

Towards an Even More Bike-Friendly Francigena

On the occasion of World Bicycle Day (June 3, 2025), it is worth highlighting how integrating cycle tourism into major cultural routes is a key driver for slower, more mindful, and sustainable tourism.

European projects, national strategies, and local initiatives must work hand-in-hand to improve infrastructure, training, and hospitality. Because the bicycle is not just a means of transport — it is a powerful tool for connecting people, landscapes, and cultures.

Credits: A few snapshots from the cycling trip along the Via Francigena towards Ostuni in Puglia, taken during the HIKE project in September 2024.

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.

On 19 May 2025, the EAVF officially set up its new offices in Besançon, within the City, as part of a partnership agreement signed between the European Association of the Via Francigena ways and Greater Besançon Métropole.

Since 2016, the EAVF’s development office in France has been based in Champlitte (Haute-Saône), where the team has been able to lay the foundations for structuring the network on a national scale: today, thanks to this field work, 46 local authorities are members of the EAVF in France. A huge thank you to the municipality of Champlitte for its warm hospitality and loyal support over the years.

With this new address in Besançon, the EAVF is even closer to its local partners. The EAVF office will be working closely with the department and the tourism team of Grand Besançon Métropole, which kindly welcomed the EAVF team last week.

And that’s not all: to mark this arrival, the European network will be present at the Grandes Heures Nature festival (13-15 June), a not-to-be-missed event for lovers of the outdoors and itinerancy, which in 2024 saw the participation of over 20,000 visitors. The Association will be holding an information stand, so don’t hesitate to come and meet us, ask your questions or just chat about the route!

Last but not least, the team is also moving on: Emmanuel Duriez is joining the EAVF as project manager for France, replacing Jacques Chevin, whom we would like to thank most sincerely for his committed work and his contagious passion for the Via Francigena.

With this new position, the EAVF is confirming its territorial roots and its desire to make the Via Francigena a veritable backbone of slow, responsible tourism in France and Europe. We’re continuing to make progress on the route, with you and for you!

The European Association of the Via Francigena ways (EAVF) has launched the fourth edition of the “Via Francigena International Award”, with the aim of highlighting the good practices implemented by its Members and Friends for the development and promotion of the itinerary.

Step-by-step participation guide:

1️⃣ EAVF Members and Friends are invited to submit their application , one for each theme, briefly describing an activity related to the Via Francigena, carried out in their local area between 01.01.2024 and 31.12.2024.

The application form lists 5 different themes: a maximum of 5 forms can be submitted, which means 1 activity per theme, by Wednesday 30 July 2025.

👉🏻 Click here to apply for the Via Francigena Award 2025 👈🏻

2️⃣ All submitted best practices will be shared with Members and Friends and published on the website www.viefrancigene.org, in a dedicated section.

3️⃣ The three best practices, selected by an international evaluation panel appointed by the EAVF President, will be awarded during the General Assembly, to be held in Rome on Friday 7 November 2025.

Our sincere appreciation to all those who will participate!

🏅 Discover the winners of previous editions.

Tourism professionals, business associations, public authorities, and local stakeholders: the call is now open to join the Train the Trainers programme, part of the European project DETOUR – Developing Resilient Tourism Ecosystems along Mediterranean Routes.

Co-funded by the European Union and running from November 2025 to September 2027, DETOUR brings together eight international partners and aims to strengthen the competitiveness and sustainability of tourism SMEs along four cultural routes: the Via Francigena (Italy), the Lycian Way (Türkiye), the Sultan’s Trail (Bulgaria), and the mountain trail network in Greece (Mount Olympos, Kissavos, Mavrovouni).

An opportunity for growth and networking for trainers and stakeholders

The Train the Trainers programme is designed for tourism experts, consultants, DMOs, representatives of local authorities, and academics with experience in supporting tourism SMEs and related sectors (e.g. agri-food, crafts, culture, etc.). Selected participants will receive free training (both online and in person) during the period from 1 August to 30 November 2025, covering key topics for the future of the sector: sustainability, digitalisation, resilience, and tourism product innovation.

Certified DETOUR Trainers will join a European network of professionals and take part in hands-on mentoring activities for local SMEs. They will also support businesses in accessing micro-financing of up to €25,000 for green and digital innovation projects.

How to apply

Applications are open until 15 July 2025 at 17:00 CET. To apply, candidates must:

• Fill out the online application form (available soon)
  
• Submit a CV in English
  
• Submit a motivation letter in English (max. 1 page), outlining relevant skills, experience, and motivation related to the themes of the green and digital transition in tourism.
  

📌 This is a unique opportunity to strengthen your expertise, join a European knowledge network, and contribute to the development of the Via Francigena and other cultural routes through sustainable tourism.

For more information, contact: detour@comune.fidenza.pr.it
👉 Learn more about the DETOUR project: LINK

During the first General Assembly of 2025, held on 17 May in Troyes, the important collaboration agreement between the European Association of the Via Francigena Ways (EAVF) and the Fédération Française de la Randonnée Pédestre (FFRP) — the leading organisation for the promotion and management of the hiking network in France — was officially renewed.

Sealing the partnership was a symbolic handshake between EAVF President Francesco Ferrari and FFRP President Frédéric Montoya, reaffirming their shared commitment to strengthening the management, promotion, and visibility of the Via Francigena on French territory. Particular focus was placed on the GR145 route, under the stewardship of the FFRP and supported by a large network of local volunteers.

In his address, President Ferrari emphasised the international dimension of the Via Francigena, recognised as a Cultural Route by the Council of Europe in 1994. He also reiterated the importance of collaboration between local authorities, institutions, and associations to ensure the route becomes increasingly accessible, valued, and sustainable along its entire length.

This renewed agreement marks a concrete step towards building an integrated European model for managing the route, fully aligned with the values promoted by the Council of Europe and the shared goals of soft mobility, environmental sustainability, cross-border cooperation, and intercultural dialogue.

The choice of Troyes as the venue for the General Assembly was no coincidence. The city, deeply rooted in the history of the Via Francigena, is currently investing in urban regeneration through the revitalisation of the historic pilgrimage route.

With this renewed partnership, the Via Francigena continues to affirm itself as an evolving European project — one that connects regions and communities, promoting a vision of Europe based on culture, sustainability, and unity.

During the EAVF General Assembly held in Troyes (Aube, France) on 16 May 2025, new institutional members were officially welcomed into the EAVF network, which now includes 250 municipalities, provinces, and regions across the four countries of the Via Francigena!

This significant new milestone was achieved thanks to the membership of the municipalities of Ballaigues and Sainte-Croix (Vaud), Poggibonsi (Tuscany), Monterosi (Lazio), Santa Cesarea (Apulia), and the Torre Guaceto Nature Reserve (Apulia).

A symbolic and meaningful achievement for the EAVF, which in the Jubilee Year is welcoming an ever-increasing number of municipalities, public bodies, and private organisations from Italy, France, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom, all committed to walking together along the 3,200 km cultural, historical, and tourist route of the Via Francigena through Europe.

A key moment in the recent international development of the network was undoubtedly the relay “Via Francigena Road to Rome 2021. Start again!”, organised to mark the association’s 20th anniversary. This initiative gave new impetus to the growth and sharing of the Via Francigena project, particularly thanks to the many meetings chaired by founder Massimo Tedeschi with mayors, local authorities, associations, and organisations along the route.

Looking to the future

Being part of the EAVF network means actively contributing to the building of a more connected Europe — one made up of people, ideas, and opportunities. This shared commitment is also reflected in European projects such as Detour, aimed at developing SMEs along the Francigena route by enhancing the local economy and the areas it traverses.

The EAVF membership network allows for the coordinated development of services for pilgrims, strengthening the visibility of the regions involved and supporting the path toward a major shared goal: the recognition of the Via Francigena as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

☀️ Summer is just around the corner! And we’re celebrating with the return of the most beloved photo competition among pilgrims from all over the world: the Francigena Photo Contest 2025.

The competition, organised by the European Association of the Via Francigena in collaboration with the Swiss Association of the Via Francigena (ASVF – www.viafrancigenasuisse.ch), will take place from 1 June to 30 September 2025.

This initiative is open to all pilgrims, cyclists, walkers and hikers who travel along the European route during summer 2025, and invites you to share your on-the-road adventures—rewarding the best photos and reels from your Via Francigena experience.

To enter, simply follow these 4 easy steps:

1. Post one or more photos or videos (reels) from your journey on Instagram and/or Facebook (posts only, no stories!).
2. In the caption, include:
   – A description
   – The location where the photo was taken
   – The hashtag #FrancigenaContest2025
3. Follow and tag the profiles:
   – @viafrancigena_eu on Instagram
   – @ViaFrancigenaEU on Facebook
4. And then… wait for the results! 🤞🐞🍀

📌 Please note:
– Your profile must be public to participate.
– If you post a gallery or album, only the first photo will be considered.
– Missing tags, hashtags, or failure to follow the Via Francigena profiles will result in disqualification.

🚩 WHAT HAPPENS AFTER 30 SEPTEMBER?

Entries will be reviewed by 15 October 2025 by an internal jury made up of members from the European Association of the Via Francigena (AEVF) and the Swiss Association of the Via Francigena (ASVF), who will select one winner for each of the following categories:

• The best photo ➡️ Win a Ferrino backpack
• The best video/reel ➡️ Win a pair of Garmont shoes
• The most captivating story/anecdote ➡️ Win a Ferrino camping tent
• The funniest content ➡️ Win a Via Francigena t-shirt and a branded Via Francigena gadget

🎉 The winners will be announced by 20 October 2025.

⚠️ We strongly recommend reading the Terms and Conditions, available here! 👈

🤞🐞🍀 Good luck… and happy trails! 🥾📷

The “Francigena Photo Contest 2025” is organised with the support of AEVF’s technical partners.

Ferrino e Garmont

On 17 May 2025, another significant milestone was reached on the path to international recognition for the Via Francigena. As part of the 4th Festival of the Regions, taking place in Venice until 20 May, a memorandum of understanding was signed between the Italian Ministry of Culture and the Italian regions crossed by the historic route—Aosta Valley, Piedmont, Lombardy, Liguria, Emilia-Romagna, Tuscany, and Lazio—to formally support the nomination of the Italian section of the Via Francigena, from the Aosta Valley to Lazio, for inclusion on the UNESCO World Heritage List.

The protocol was signed by the seven regions, under the coordination of the Region of Tuscany, in the presence of Minister of Culture Alessandro Giuli and AEVF President Francesco Ferrari.

“This nomination sends a powerful message that the Francigena is not only a historical treasure, but a living route,” stated Minister Giuli. “It is a European axis of dialogue between peoples, religions, and cultures—one that bridges the past and the future.”

Today, the Via Francigena stands as a symbol of slow and sustainable tourism. It fosters the rediscovery of medieval villages, inland areas, and local food and wine traditions, drawing thousands of Italian and international walkers each year.

Achieving UNESCO recognition would not only ensure greater protection of the route, but would also serve as a valuable opportunity for revitalising the entire territory, encouraging investment in cultural heritage, hospitality services, and promotional initiatives all along the path.

The nomination process follows a defined set of steps, including the drafting of scientific and technical documentation. To support this initiative, the Ministry of Culture allocated €1.1 million in 2022, entrusting the Region of Tuscany—as lead authority—with the preparation of the application dossier.

The next key stages on the road to international recognition are fast approaching. By 15 June, the Italian National Commission for UNESCO will review the nomination dossier. If approved, the Italian government will submit it to the UNESCO World Heritage Centre for preliminary evaluation by 15 September.

Photos by Gianmaria Balboni and ParchiLazio Facebook