The Testimonium is a document that certifies the completion of a pilgrimage to Rome undertaken in a religious spirit. This is the counterpart of the “Compostela”, which is obtained on completion of the Camino de Santiago. Historically this document was important because when the pilgrim returned home he could prove that the pilgrimage was fulfilled, and his vows discharged. For pilgrims along the Via Francigena in Southern Italy, it is also possible to obtain a testimonium in Brindisi and Santa Maria di Leuca.
How to obtain the Testimonium in Rome
The Testimonium is only given to pilgrims who present a credential showing stamps for at least the last 100 km for walkers or the last 200 km for cyclists.
The Testimonium is available at:
The Basilica of Saint Peter’s: after going through the State Police controls, you can find the reception point just before climbing the stairs that access the Portico of the Basilica, on your right side.
The reception point will be open on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. and on Wednesdays from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m.
For communications and reservations, please contact the appropriate office:
- email: accoglienza@fsp.va
- Tel: +39 06 6982 (switchboard) and ask for extension 82137
- Cellphone: +39 366 5775511
How to obtain the Testimonium in Brindisi
In Brindisi you can pick up your testimonium at the Accademia degli Erranti, the Statio Peregrinorum of the Via Francigena, located in Via Giovanni Tarantini 35 at the Ex Convento delle Scuole Pie, a wonderful monumental venue where the association “Brindisi e le Antiche Strade” offers many services for pilgrims, wayfarers and walkers.
You can request the testimonium if you have traveled at least 100 km on foot or 200 km by bicycle.
To reserve your Testimonium, please contact the office by sending an email to: br.antichestrade@gmail.com or write a whatsapp message to the local contact person: +39 3881130368 (Antonio Melcore).
It is important to notify at least a couple of days in advance so that your arrival date can be put in the agenda. Statio Peregrinorum is open from 10 a.m.-12 p.m. and 4 p.m.-8 p.m. Monday through Saturday. (Book your arrival at least a couple of days in advance so you will be welcomed).
How to obtain the Testimonium in Santa Maria di Leuca
For pilgrims arriving by foot or by bike, the PCE De Finibus Terrae foundation, in collaboration with the Pontificia Basilica Santuario of Santa Maria di Leuca, prepared a Testimonium: a certificate granted at the end of a pilgrimage.
The Testimonium is released upon showing your stamped credential demonstrating that you have walked at least 100 km (at least from Lecce) or cycled at least 200 km (at least from Bari).
You can collect your Testimonium at the Basilica-Santuario di S. Maria De Finibus Terrae. You can also reserve it before arrival by sending an e-mail at testimonium@camminidileuca.it and attaching a photocopy of your ID or passport and a scan of your pilgrim credential which will also be presented in the sacristy. You will then receive your Bonus Testimonii, to be presented upon arrival. More information: www.camminidileuca.it
You can buy your official credential by clicking here
