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 by15 September.
An information desk at Santiago Airport, Spain, is open daily until 31 May 2025. This initiative serves as an international promotional tool for the Via Francigena during the Jubilee Year.
Throughout the month of May 2025, the Via Francigena is featured at Santiago de Compostela Airport—one of the key hubs for international slow tourism—with a dedicated space welcoming pilgrims and travellers returning from the renowned Spanish pilgrimage route. Operating daily from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., the info desk provides visitors with informative materials, practical advice, and inspiration to plan a new journey—this time along the ancient European route stretching from Canterbury to Rome, and onward to the ports of Puglia.
This initiative forms part of the “Fondo Sviluppo e Coesione – Piano Sviluppo e Coesione” (Card 33 – Via Francigena – Cross-cutting Actions), which aims to enhance the Via Francigena as a driver of tourism, culture, and regional development. The Via Francigena is increasingly seen as “our Camino de Santiago”—a central axis in the network of slow travel routes across Italy and Europe. The Italian Ministry of Tourism is actively promoting it through a wide-reaching campaign.
With over 500,000 pilgrims having received the Compostela in 2024, Santiago Airport is a strategic location for engaging a motivated audience interested in meaningful, authentic experiences. The Francigena stand, designed as a welcoming and interactive space, offers multilingual materials, meetings with route experts, personal stories from walkers, and multimedia presentations showcasing the history, emotions, and landscapes of the Via Francigena. The goal is to inspire visitors to embark on a new pilgrimage along the historic path connecting Canterbury to Rome, and further on to the ports of Brindisi and Santa Maria di Leuca in Puglia.
The Via Francigena’s presence in Santiago carries strong symbolic value and is of great significance at a European level. It represents a bridge between two of the continent’s most iconic pilgrimage routes, both recognised as Cultural Routes by the Council of Europe. This synergy fosters dialogue among peoples, shared spirituality, and a vision of a connected Europe, united through its historical paths.
Following participation in international outdoor travel fairs in New York(January) and Paris (February), the Santiago initiative reaffirms the commitment of the Italian government and Ministry of Tourism to promoting the route on a global scale—engaging directly with an international community in search of slow, sustainable, and deeply cultural travel experiences.
Stretching over 3,200 kilometres across four countries—England, France, Switzerland, and Italy—the Via Francigena continues to grow as a symbol of sustainable tourism, regional enhancement, and shared heritage.
On 16 May 2025, the spring General Assembly of the European Association of the Via Francigena ways (EAVF) took place in Troyes, the capital of the Aube department in the Grand Est region.
Located about 40 km from the French route of the Via Francigena, the city welcomed over one hundred representatives from England, Switzerland, Italy, and France, gathered to discuss the future of this European cultural route. Following the group photo and the national anthems of the four countries crossed by the route, the assembly officially opened with the entry of new members into the EAVF network: the Swiss municipalities of Ballaigues and Sainte-Croix (Vaud), along with the Italian towns of Poggibonsi (Tuscany), Monterosi (Lazio), Santa Cesarea Terme, and the Torre Guaceto Nature Reserve (Apulia). With these new additions, theEAVF network now includes 250 members across Europe, confirming a shared commitment to an increasingly international path.
One of the highlights was the signing of an agreement between the EAVF and the Fédération Française de la Randonnée Pédestre – the organisation that promotes and manages France’s trail network and is responsible for the GR145 Via Francigena. This was marked by a handshake between President Francesco Ferrari and President Frédéric Montoya.
This was followed by the signing of a cooperation agreement with the Templar Route, a cultural itinerary currently under consideration for recognition by the Council of Europe. Participants had the opportunity to discover this historic route during a guided tour, with a key stop at the majestic Troyes Cathedral, where the Templar Rule was drafted in 1129.
Two key points were central to the assembly:
The financial report: the 2024 final accounts and the 2025 budget forecast were approved.
The election of association bodies: Francesco Ferrari was unanimously re-elected as President, confirming continuity with the work carried out since 2001. The newly appointed Vice-Presidents are: Francesco Gazzetti (Deputy), Gaëtan Tornay (Second Deputy), Bill Hicks, Natacha Bouchart, Valery Denis, Luigi Laterza, Civita di Russo, and Aldo Patruno. Sergio Luigi Ricca was appointed Treasurer.
The Presidential Office was also renewed for the 2025–2028 period, comprising 16 municipalities, 6 provinces/agglomerations, and five associations.
During the assembly, current projects were extensively presented, starting with Detour, a European initiative aimed at supporting SMEs and services linked to the Via Francigena.
Updates were also shared on ongoing projects along the following sections:
English (between London and Dover),
French (municipalities of Wisques and Champlitte),
Swiss (events and activities for 2025),
Italian (municipalities of Piacenza, Colle Val d’Elsa, Rome, Apulia Region and Lazio Region).
The Assembly concluded with a well-received food and wine tasting, part of the Sosta&Gusta (Stop&Taste) project, featuring Parmigiano Reggiano, the Tuscan Ham Consortium, Antoine Ney Brewery, and the Barfontarc winery.
The event was preceded by a guided tour of the “Cité du Vitrail” and the city of Troyes, and concluded the following day with a guided tour of the city of Bar-sur-Aube and a walk along the Via Francigena, ending in Baroville, where participants had the opportunity to taste champagne from the Barfontarc winery. These three wonderful days were supported by the Department of Aube and the municipality of Bar-sur-Aube.
From 19 to 21 March 2025, students from the Emilia-Romagna town of Calendasco had the opportunity to take part in an intercultural exchange along the Via Francigena in France. Organised under the Erasmus Young Pilgrims programme, part of the broader PNRR project “Transitare, cultural landscapes” (2022–2026)—funded by the European Union to support the regeneration of the villages of Calendasco and Berceto along the Via Francigena in Emilia-Romagna—the initiative brought together students, local officials, mayors, and citizens for a three-day visit to Champlitte, a French commune in the Haute-Saône region. The visit featured cultural activities, walking along the historic route, and institutional meetings.
The Programme
The exchange began on Wednesday 19 March with the students’ departure from Calendasco and their arrival in Champlitte in the early afternoon. There, French and Italian students took part in an “Explor Game”—an innovative and interactive way to discover the town’s local heritage. The day continued with an official meeting at the Town Hall, where the Mayor of Champlitte and the municipal team welcomed the students, school representatives, and delegations from Calendasco. The gathering, accompanied by a reception offered by the local authority, highlighted the importance of cross-border cooperation and the educational value of the pilgrimage route.
On Thursday 20 March, the experience continued with a visit to the middle school in Dampierre-sur-Salon, where the Italian students were greeted by their French peers, the two mayors, and school staff. After a shared lunch in the canteen, the group returned near Champlitte and set off on foot along a 10-kilometre stretch of the Via Francigena, passing through Montot. The walk was led by Mayor Degrenand, Vice-President of the CC4R (Community of Communes of the Four Rivers), who, along with other guides, shared insights and local stories throughout the route. The day concluded with a visit to the Departmental Museum of Arts and Techniques in Champlitte, followed by a convivial dinner at Café des 3 Rois, in a spirit of friendship and exchange.
Friday 21 March was devoted to the discovery of Besançon, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the final stop of the initiative. After leaving Champlitte in the morning, participants joined a guided tour of the historic centre, renowned for its Roman remains and fortified architecture. Free time over lunch offered a chance to explore the city at their own pace before returning to Calendasco in the afternoon. All cultural and leisure activities were organised in collaboration with the CC4R Tourist Office.
These three days served as a bridge between cultures and territories, with the Via Francigena as the connecting thread—not just a physical path, but a tool for education, intercultural dialogue, and European citizenship. The initiative strengthened the bond between Champlitte and Calendasco, two communities united by the same historic route, today more than ever a symbol of shared heritage and future cooperation.
On Sunday 8th June, the 7th edition of the Via Francigena Marathon Val di Susa returns to the Susa Valley (Piedmont, Italy), from Avigliana to Susa (with or without the detour via the Sacra di San Michele). A truly unmissable event for outdoor enthusiasts!
The marathon route follows a stretch of the Via Francigena through the Susa Valley, allowing participants to rediscover a territory rich in history, art, alpine culture, and the natural beauty of mountains and valley forests. Walking rather than running will give everyone the chance to admire breathtaking landscapes and the traces left by humanity over 6,000 years of history.
This year, four route options are available:
“MARATHON” Route Avigliana – Susa approx. 45 km (passing through Sacra di San Michele); altitude difference 1400 D+
“EASY MARATHON” Route Avigliana – Susa approx. 40 km (without passing through the Sacra di San Michele); altitude difference 800 D+
“HALF MARATHON” Route Half Marathon from Sant’Antonino di Susa to Susa ; approx. 25 km, altitude difference 800 D+
“SACRA DI SAN MICHELE MARATHON” Route km 12 approx; along path 502 – Via Crucis from Sant’Ambrogio di Torino; difference in altitude 600 D+
⚠️ REGISTRATION CLOSES ON 11th MAY! Don’t miss the chance to enjoy this wonderful experience — REGISTER NOW!
The event Via Francigena Marathon Val di Susa is organised by ASD IRIDE of Rivoli, whose mission is to promote the inclusion of people of all ages in amateur sports activities with social, recreational, and cultural aims.
EAVF is pleased to relaunch this exciting initiative, promoted by its expert partner Sloways, in search of travel media and content creators.
“Walk the Caminos to Rome: nature, flavours, pilgrims and architecture. Alternative and contemporary insights to Rome”
There are many ways to reach Rome. But only a few follow the footsteps of those who, over the centuries, have arrived on foot—pilgrims, merchants, saints, and knights.
We invite you to join us for a 5-day walking press trip (May 20–24, 2025) to explore historic pilgrimage routes, authentic flavours, and stunning architecture—from ancient ruins to contemporary masterpieces—and to discover aRome you never expected and have never seen.
We’ll walk the final stages of the Northern Via Francigena, the Way of St. Francis, and the Southern Via Francigena, crossing woods and meadows, charming villages, and the volcanic landscapes of the Alban Hills—until we reach Rome and the Vatican with it’s the unexpected green oases that stretch right into the heart of town.
This journey isn’t only about nature: it’s also a culinary itinerary, with curated gastronomic stops, and a journey through architecture—from imperial ruins to the fluid lines of Zaha Hadid’s MAXXI Museum, via Rome’s Grand Mosque, the largest in Europe, Renzo Piano’s Auditorium Parco della Musica, and the bike paths cutting through neighbourhoods made famous by Italian neorealist cinema.
We’ll arrive on foot at St. Peter’s Square, just like the pilgrims of old, after passing through the city parks of Insugherata, Monte Ciocci, and Monte Mario, where the dome of the Basilica first appears on the horizon.
Each day we’ll walk between 12-14km | 7.5-9 mi, weaving through trails, urban landscapes and storytelling.
In the evenings, we’ll experience the authentic and creative side of the capital, exploring the historic centre, bustling Trastevere, and tasting a mix of traditional and contemporary cuisine.
This is a great opportunity to:
👉 Tell the story of Rome from a new perspective: slow, sustainable, and on foot.
👉 Discover beauty where you least expect it: in the outskirts, in the details, in the local’s sense of place.
SloWays -brand of S-Cape Partners and Expert Partner of the European Association of Vie Francigene-is a specialized Italian tour operator offering a wide range of self-guided walking trips across Italy. Each itinerary is designed and operated in-house, ensuring high standards of quality, local insight, and attention to detail.
With over 20 years of experience in the field, the company has developed deep expertise in long-distance trails and historic pilgrimage routes such as the Via Francigena and the Way of St. Francis. SloWays is committed to promoting a form of travel that values slowness, cultural depth, and meaningful connections with the territory.
The company prioritizes sustainability by encouraging low-impact travel, supporting local economies, and collaborating with small, family-run accommodations. Its routes are carefully chosen to take travellers off the beaten path, offering a unique perspective on Italy’s landscapes, traditions, and communities.
SloWays provides expert guidance and logistical support, making walking accessible and enjoyable for a broad audience — from experienced hikers to those approaching this form of travel for the first time.
Included in the Trip
Transport to and from Rome from EU or UK
4 nights in a 3-star hotel, double for single use room
Meals: 4 breakfasts, 4 lunches and 4 dinners
Local wine and food tastings
Transfers by public and private transport
Luggage transport from Castel Gandolfo to Rome
2 trip leaders throughout the trip
Medical and luggage insurance
Not Included
Personal expenses during the trip
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What We Offer
A unique experience
A fully Hosted trip as specified in the “Included in the Trip” section
We offering a total of €500 as honorarium for participating content creators
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Who We’re Looking For:
4 Italian and 4 foreign Travel writers living in Europe
4 Italian and 4 foreign Content Creators living in Europe
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What We’re Asking
Media – Travel Writers
Bio with photo Portfolio/media kit
Where have your articles been placed / published in the past 3 years
Where do you see yourself pitching this trip
Please specify the expected format and length of coverage, and outline what social media support could be provided (from your personal channels, publications, or both)
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Content Creators
Presentation:
Bio with photo, including your story, your interest and your social media channels
To have a following interested in the outdoors and adventure,
To have 15.000 or more followers across your various social media channels
Please specify the expected format and length of potential coverage, and outline.
What social media support can be provided (from your personal channels, the publications, or both)
Before the Event:
A minimum of 3 stories announcing your participation in the event, shared on your social media channels and including agreed links and tags.
During the Event:
A minimum of 10 Stories per day on your various social media channels; including agreed links and tags.
After the Event:
1 co-created reel-video, shared on your social media channels, including agreed links and tags
If you have a blog: 1 final blog article including agreed links and tags.
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Consent for Use of Personal Image and Data – GDPR Compliance
Please be advised that a professional photo and video maker will be present during the trip. By participating in this media trip, you give your explicit consent to the use, sharing, and publication – for commercial and promotional purposes – of any images and video footage taken of you during the trip.
Such materials may be used across various platforms, including websites, social media, brochures, and other communication tools related to the promotion of our activities.
All personal data, including photographic and video content, will be processed and stored in accordance with Regulation (EU) 2016/679 (General Data Protection Regulation – GDPR). You have the right to access, modify, or request the deletion of your data at any time by contacting us.
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How to Apply:
Send your application by Monday May 4th to the email address tullia.caballero@sloways.eu, including the following:
Email subject: Media & Content Creator Application “Walk the Caminos to Rome”
Your portfolio/media kit including a list of your social media channels, blog, website, YouTube, Podcast channels with number of followers and or readers (if applicable)
The Apulia Region (Regione Pugli) is finalizing the installation of official signposting along the Via Francigena route. The work, part of a broader enhancement project funded by CIPE Fund sheet no. 33, includes the installation of bidirectional signs, trail markers, welcome signs, informational panels about cultural attractions, and COR-TEN steel installations. These elements will make the route more accessible and user-friendly for pilgrims.
Final checks are currently underway to ensure the correct placement of the signposting, with completion of the work expected in April. This intervention marks a crucial step toward improving the visibility and safety of the route, enhancing the travel experience of those walking through Apulia region along the ancient path.
The Via Francigena is an asset of extraordinary importance for Apulia — not only for its historical and spiritual value but also for the contribution it makes to sustainable tourism and the promotion of local areas. Passing through villages, rural landscapes, and art cities, the path allows travelers to rediscover traditions, flavors, and unique scenery, encouraging slow and mindful tourism. The Region’s commitment to signposting is therefore a tangible sign of its dedication to this extraordinary route of pilgrimage and discovery.
From May 2024, St. Peter’s Basilica will launch a welcoming service for pilgrims travelling along the Via Francigena, the Romea Strata, and the Via Romea Germanica. Thanks to the collaboration between the Fabbrica di San Pietro and the Homo Viator Foundation– San Teobaldo of the Diocese of Vicenza, pilgrims from around the world will be warmly welcomed upon their arrival in Rome, before they reach the tomb of St. Peter. Cardinal Mauro Gambetti, Archpriest of St. Peter’s Basilica and President of the Fabbrica di San Pietro, shared with our Association how this project came about, aiming to provide pilgrims with an appropriate and spiritual welcome during their journey.
A project of welcome for the journey of faith
“This project was born from a meeting with Don Raimondo Sinibaldi and other enthusiasts of pilgrimage routes, with whom we shared the desire to offer pilgrims a proper welcome at St. Peter’s”, explained Cardinal Gambetti. The collaboration between the Fabbrica di San Pietro and the Homo Viator Foundation was a concrete response to the needs of pilgrims, offering them a place to rest and reflect before arriving at the Basilica. The Foundation, with its experience in managing hospitality services, made this service possible thanks to the volunteers who were already providing welcome services in the Holy Land.
Gambetti added: “The attention and closeness help pilgrims feel more welcomed and appreciated in this unique place, which is dear to all the faithful around the world.” The goal is to foster reflection and prayer, providing those who come from afar with a space to find inner peace after their long physical and spiritual journey.
Monitoring arrivals: data and growth in the flow of pilgrims
The welcome service also includes careful monitoring of the pilgrims arriving at St. Peter’s. Each pilgrim is asked to complete a form with essential information such as the starting point, the motivation for the journey, and the means of transportation used. Thanks to this data, a significant increase in arrivals has been recorded. “We saw a 74% increase between 2023 (3,319 forms) and 2024 (5,576).” The majority of pilgrims are men aged between 50 and 69, mostly travelling on foot, confirming the growing popularity of the Via Francigena and the Roman Ways.
The crucial role of volunteers in hospitality
A key aspect of this project is the role of volunteers. Every day, four volunteers – two in the morning and two in the afternoon – are present to ensure continuous hospitality at the Basilica’s Welcome Area and at the “Varco Oranti” in St. Peter’s Square. As Gambetti explains: “The volunteers’ task is to offer attention to those who, after a long physical and spiritual journey, wish to feel well-received in this unique and holy place.”
The service also includes the handing over of the “Testimonium“, a special certificate confirming participation in the pilgrimage, produced on parchment with the icons of Saints Peter and Paul. This symbolic gesture represents a recognition of the spiritual journey made by each pilgrim, regardless of the distance travelled, as long as it is no less than one hundred kilometres.
The Via Francigena: a physical and spiritual journey
The Via Francigena is not only a physical journey but also an inner journey, and thanks to the welcome project of the Fabbrica di San Pietro, pilgrims can feel received, supported, and respected in an environment that fosters spiritual reflection. It is a tangible sign of how the journey can unite people from all over the world, creating a network of solidarity and hospitalitythat transcends physical and cultural distances.
Opening hours of the information point: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 07:30 – 18:00 Wednesday: 13:00 – 18:00
For further information, the Welcome Office of St. Peter’s Basilica can be contacted through the following channels: Email: accoglienza@fsp.va – Tel. +39 06 6982 (switchboard)
The AEVF General Assembly returns to France: the magnificent city of Troyes, capital of the Aube department, located in the heart of the Champagne region, will host the next General Assembly of the EAVF and a series of cultural initiatives from 15 to 17 May.
After Pavia, Vevey, Fidenza, and Monte Sant’Angelo, the EAVF General Assembly returns to France, where it has not been held since the event in Calais in May 2023. The network of the European Association of the Via Francigena ways, which now has 249 members and 96 affiliated associations, will gather on this occasion in the Grand-Est region, specifically in Troyes. This city, renowned for its Champagne and located approximately 40 km from the Via Francigena route, is the capital of the Aube department, a member of the EAVF.
The first Assembly of 2025, the Jubilee Year, will be a moment of great significance for all entities linked to the Association and the Via Francigena route, as it will see the renewal of the Association’s governing bodies, approved during the extraordinary General Assembly held in Fidenza on 30 July 2024. On that occasion, the Assembly unanimously elected Francesco Ferrari as the new president of the EAVF, succeeding the late President Massimo Tedeschi.
In addition to the renewal of the governing bodies, the agenda of the Assembly includes the admission of new members, the approval of the financial statements, an update on the progress of the UNESCO application, and promotional initiatives planned throughout the year. Special attention will be given to actions aimed at increasing the international visibility of the entire European route, as well as the promotional plan for the Via Francigena supported by the Italian Ministry of Tourism. Significant attention will also be dedicated to EAVF’s European projects: HIKE, DETOUR, and the Erasmus Young Pilgrims Programme, which, starting in March, will feature a series of walks in France, in Champlitte, with the participation of selected Italian schools.
Scheduled Initiatives
The Assembly will take place on Friday, 16 May, but beyond the official proceedings, a rich programme of cultural initiatives and social events is planned from Thursday, 15 May to Saturday, 17 May.
Day 1 – Thursday, 15/05/2025
After the arrival of AEVF members and friends, an evening meeting is scheduled, featuring a guided tour and a networking aperitif at the Cité du Vitrail – Hôtel-Dieu-Le-Comte.
Day 2 – Friday, 16/05/2025
The day begins with a guided tour of Troyes. Meanwhile, a participatory meeting involving municipalities, associations, and private entities will take place for stakeholders of the Aube department.
At 12:30, a light lunch and networking session will be held at the Aube Congress Centre, Espace Grands Lacs – Temple. At 14:00, participant registration will begin, followed by the Assembly from 14:30 to 18:00, with interpretation services available in Italian, English, and French.
The closing day will start with a guided tour of Bar-sur-Aube (departure at 08:00), followed by a short walk on the Via Francigena, covering approximately 2.5 km, leading to Baroville.
The programme will continue with a visit to the Barfontarc winery and a light lunch featuring Champagne, Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, Toscano PDO ham, and other regional delicacies.
The return to Troyes is scheduled for 14:00, with an estimated arrival at 15:30.
NB:PLEASE REVIEW THE PROGRAMME CAREFULLY AND REGISTER IN ADVANCE WHERE REQUIRED FOR THE VARIOUS EVENTS DETAILED WITHIN IT.
The European Association of the Via Francigena Ways (EAVF) and the Via Francigena return from Fa’ la cosa giusta! 2025: the story ‘for those who saw it and for those who weren’t there.’
With an ever-larger and more innovative stand – dedicated in the Jubilee year to the arrival in St. Peter’s Square – the Via Francigena and AEVF did not miss the appointment with Fa’ la cosa giusta! 2025, the fair created by the publishing house Terre di Mezzo, which returned to energize the cultural scene of Milan from March 14-16.
The twenty-first edition of the event, dedicated to critical consumption and sustainable lifestyles, took place this year at the new location of Fiera Milano Rho, hosting a record-breaking 52,200 visitors in an exhibition space of 30,000 square meters, divided into four different thematic areas.
Same team again!
Once again, after last year’s great response, EAVF and expert partner SloWays joined forces to offer visitors a 360º view of the Via Francigena.
From information about the route and travel organization to the latest news, from organized tours to the highly requested Via Francigena merchandise, the stand welcomed hundreds of visitors over the three days of the fair, including seasoned adventurers, newcomers to the path, and curious individuals eager to take their first steps along the route.
And speaking of teamwork, as is tradition, there were activities in collaboration with our partners: the unmissable ‘Weigh the Backpack‘ game (with gifts kindly offered by our partners Ferrino, Garmont, Terre di Mezzo, and Camminare Comodi), the presentation of the 2025 pilgrim agreements with Flixbus, Trenitalia, Regionale, and Trenord, as well as a preview of upcoming events for new outdoor walks along the Via Francigena:
The walks of Davide Fiz with the Smart Walking project along the Via Francigena in Italy, to which anyone can join.”
A packed schedule of events
Not only activities at the stand. Fa’ la cosa giusta! 2025 was an edition marked by numerous events and talks within the rich cultural program of the fair, with the public and the EAVF team involved in various debates and interesting opportunities for discussion on the role of pilgrimage routes as a driving force for tourism that is increasingly green, sustainable, and accessible.
The cultural program of the Great Pathways Pavilion opened with a touching moment dedicated to the memory of Massimo Tedeschi, founder of the European Association of the Via Francigena Ways in 2001 and EAVF President for 23 years, whose forward-thinking European vision was crucial for the growth and enhancement of the Via Francigena. At the conclusion of the tribute, the pilgrim’s staff, crafted by the artisan ‘Girumin‘, was presented to his son Marco Tedeschi by Miriam Giovanzana, Director of Terre di Mezzo, and Francesco Ferrari, President of EAVF.
Foto via @FrancigenaNews
During the following events, the ‘Francigena team’ was involved in various sessions: President Francesco Ferrari, Director Luca Bruschi, Project Manager Sami Tawfik, and Communications Manager Simona Spinola participated in discussions on accessibility, the Jubilee, cycling tourism, as well as a meeting with students from the ‘School Project‘ on the morning of Friday, March 14.
Among the highlights:
The event ‘Via Francigena and the Jubilee. The promotion project by the Ministry of Tourism and the Regions‘ with the presence of Tourism Minister Daniela Santanchè;
The presentation of the accessibility guidecreated by EAVF and Regione Lombardia, which took place during the meeting ‘Accessibility and Pilgrimage Routes: A Right for All’;
The meeting ‘The Rebirth of the Via Francigena in the South: A Path to Rome and Jerusalem,’ presented by the representative for the development of the Via Francigena in the South, Angelofabio Attolico;
Gaëtan Tornay – EAVF Vice President and President of SAVF – and Nicole Franciolini, Social Media Manager, discussed the Via Francigena on an international level, particularly in Switzerland, presenting the route, travel tips, a brief exploration of the Grand Saint Bernard Pass in winter, and the new Italian brochures distributed by SAVF.
A glance at Europe
During Fa’ la cosa giusta! 2025, two important European projects were presented to the public, with EAVF and the Via Francigena as key players alongside various international partners and European pilgrimage routes. At the stand of the Puglia Region, Communications Manager Simona Spinola outlined the details of HIKE, the Erasmus Sport project that promotes healthy lifestyles, engaging walkers and non-walkers in outdoor experiences along the Via Francigena, with free sporting and cultural activities. The fair also served as a valuable opportunity to promote the benefits of the DETOURproject, funded by the COSME programme, which supports small and medium-sized enterprises along the Pavia-Rome section of the route. This includes a training programme, specialized consulting, and access to funding to develop innovative projects in the slow tourism sector. The fair also featured the walking initiatives in Champlitte, involving schools as part of the Erasmus Young Pilgrims Programme.
A great celebration
Among familiar faces and new friends, Fa’ la cosa giusta! once again proved to be a moment of meeting, exchange, and great celebration for all the enthusiasts of the Via Francigena and pilgrimage routes. What made it even more special this time was the collective mural ‘For me, the Via Francigena is…’, which gathered dedications, thoughts, memories, and good intentions from both long-time fans of the route and those planning to take their first steps along it soon.
As this successful edition comes to a close, our thanks go first and foremost to all of you who visited us at the stand and enthusiastically participated in the various activities. A big THANK YOU also goes to Terre di Mezzo for their dedication in organizing an event that has truly become like home, allowing us to share precious moments with a growing Francigena Family.
Goodbye Fa’ la cosa giusta! We’ll see you next year for the celebrations of EAVF’s 25th anniversary!
Photo Gallery
EAVF General Assembly, Pavia (Italy) | 20 October 2023
