The Via Francigena and 24 other routes met at the “Forum des Chemins” in Paris, the annual event dedicated to pilgrimages.

It was an opportunity for the European Association of Via Francigena Ways (EAVF) to spend time with hikers and route representatives. The 104 Forum reunited pilgrims, hikers, associations and writers. The forum was organised by journalist, Gaële de la Brosse. Starting this year, the event welcomed “pilgrims of the earth”: men and women who rally before ecological, economic and social crises and who, like all pilgrims, presented research on new ideas.

The EAVF had a stand and participated in a workshop, conference and debate. The official EAVF guide of the Italian section was presented in collaboration with the “Terre di Mezzo” publishing company and the next guide for the Canterbury – Great St Bernard Pass section was announced. The Italian guide in French is sold in Paris by “Vieux Cameur”, company specialising in excursion and in an Italian bookshop.

Martine Gautheron, EAVF vice-president, represented the EAVF and the Via Francigena during the “Pilgrim Speed Dating” activity. Various authors took part in the forum to meet pilgrims and present their books: Jean-Christophe Rufin (guest of honour), François-Xavier Maigre, Fabienne Biden, Gaële of the Brush, François Cariot.