Emilia-Romagna: The Way of Saint Francis
3 minutes
The Cammino di San Francesco (Saint Francis’ Way) from Rimini to La Verna is a route of around 115 kilometres inviting travellers to explore the sacred places and enchanting landscapes of Emilia-Romagna and Tuscany. This spiritual journey is divided into five stages, each of which offers a unique experience of reflection and contemplation, following in the footsteps of the Saint of Assisi.
The first stage begins in the historic city of Rimini and leads to Villa Verucchio. This initial stretch leaves the bustling city behind, immersing you in the tranquil landscape of the Marecchia Valley, an area rich in natural beauty and testaments to the past. Villa Verucchio, known for its ancient Franciscan monastery and the famous cypress tree said to have been planted by Saint Francis himself, is a perfect destination to begin this meditative journey.
The second stage takes walkers from Villa Verucchio to San Leo through hilly landscapes offering unforgettable panoramic views.
San Leo, with its majestic fortress overlooking the valley, is a place steeped in history and spirituality, on the life path of Saint Francis. This is the place where he was given Mount Penna as a gift by Count Orlando Cattani, where he received the stigmata and where the famous Sanctuary of La Verna stands today. This medieval village is an opportunity to visit one of the most important defensive sites in Italy and also to reflect on the life path of Saint Francis, who found refuge here during his travels.
The third stage of the walk then continues from San Leo to Sant'Agata Feltria, a place of great beauty whose Franciscan presence dates back to the time of Saints Francis and Clare. This section passes through gentle hills and silent woodlands, leading travellers to one of the most enchanting villages of inland Romagna. Sant'Agata Feltria is a place of great beauty, famous for the Rocca Fregoso fortress and the Angelo Mariani theatre, but also a place of peace, inviting a feeling of harmony with the surrounding nature.
The fourth stage, from Sant'Agata Feltria to Balze, is perhaps the most striking from a landscape perspective. Balze, a small mountain village at the foot of Mount Fumaiolo, is a key point on the route, where the fresh air and breathtaking views prepare walkers for their arrival at the Sanctuary of La Verna. This section is characterised by unspoilt nature, offering walkers an experience of harmony with the environment and the spiritual aspect of the route.
The last stage leads from Balze to Chiusi della Verna, culminating at the Sanctuary of La Verna, where Saint Francis received the stigmata. This final stretch is a truly immersive journey through dense forests and mountainous landscapes, bringing walkers closer to the ultimate sacred place of the route.
The link paths and winter variant
In addition to the main route, the Cammino di San Francesco offers two Franciscan alternatives: the San Marino link path, with the option of visiting the world’s oldest Republic with its UNESCO World Heritage historic centre, and the Santarcangelo link path, through the natural and historic landscapes of the Marecchia Valley, offering breathtaking views and Franciscan hospitality. During the winter season, there is also a winter variant, known as the Balze Variant, which avoids the more challenging or snow-covered sections of the main route, ensuring safety and accessibility for walkers.
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