Discovering the Via Francigena in Puglia: A journey of history, faith and breathtaking landscapes
4 minutes
To mark the Jubilee Year, Italia.it set off on a journey alongside the editorial staff from the European Association of the Via Francigena Ways (AEVF) to show you a historic route that once led pilgrims from Canterbury towards the Holy Land.
Region after region, stage after stage, we'll follow in the footsteps of Archbishop Sigeric, who documented the 79 stages of his return journey from Rome back to Canterbury in 990 AD, tracing a route that would become a symbol of spirituality and culture across Europe. In 2024, the Via Francigena celebrated 30 years since the Council of Europe certified it as a European Cultural Route, which was extended to the ports of Puglia – Brindisi and Santa Maria di Leuca – in 2019. It's from Puglia that we'll embark on this journey together.
The Via Francigena in Puglia
In Puglia, the Via Francigena forms the final stretch of a long and fascinating route that pilgrims travelled on their way towards the Holy Land. This path combines spirituality and culture, crossing enchanting landscapes and ancient villages, and allowing travellers to immerse themselves in the region's age-old traditions. The route unwinds through centuries-old olive groves and stunning views, taking in emblematic towns and cities like Troia, with its splendid Romanesque cathedral; Lucera, where traces of the ancient Swabian settlers still remain; and Bari, a key departure point for sea crossings to the East.
The route reaches its climax in Santa Maria di Leuca, one of Puglia's most evocative destinations, where the Adriatic and Ionian Seas meet to create a truly unique panorama. It's here that the majestic Basilica of Santa Maria di Leuca welcomes pilgrims as they arrive in a place that is teeming with spirituality and beauty. Leuca has always been considered a landmark on the journey to the Holy Land.
Pilgrims can rediscover traces of different historical eras along the way: from Roman and medieval roads to the Byzantine influences that still characterise many of the region's religious buildings and architectural monuments. Today, the Via Francigena in Puglia is more than a journey of faith; it's an experience that celebrates and enhances the region's wealth of cultural, artistic and culinary heritage. In addition to walking along ancient roads, pilgrims can enjoy the warm, welcoming hospitality of the people of Puglia, taste typical dishes imbued with centuries of culinary tradition, and experience a unique blend of spirituality, history, art and nature.
Art along the way
Puglia is a region that tells its story through both art and architecture. The distinctive Apulian Romanesque style captures the imagination of travellers along the way: one of the most eye-catching examples is Trani Cathedral, with its majestic facade and panoramic sea views. Other must-see sites include Andria Cathedral, with its Latin cross plan, and the Basilica of Saint Nicholas in Bari, a masterpiece of sober yet imposing medieval architecture. Continuing south, the Lecce Baroque offers a truly unique spectacle. Lecce, known as the 'Florence of the South', has an enchanting old town full of artistic details. Lecce Cathedral – with its richly decorated doorway and use of carparo stone, a local material that illuminates the architecture – represents the triumph of this style. Strolling through Lecce's churches, noble palaces and lively squares means immersing yourself in a unique atmosphere that celebrates Baroque art and culture.
Ideas for walks along the Via Francigena in Puglia
The most captivating stages of the Via Francigena in Puglia lead pilgrims through sites rich in history, culture and natural beauty.
Here is an example of an itinerary for visiting Puglia on foot, taken from the official itinerary of the Italian route:
Troia – Monte Sant’Angelo 110 km
The route, which starts in Troia, stretches for approximately 110 km, passing through the towns of Troia, Lucera, San Severo, San Marco in Lamis and San Giovanni Rotondo, before reaching Monte Sant’Angelo. The latter, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is an essential stop for pilgrims, as it is a place dedicated to the veneration of St Michael the Archangel.
1. Troia – Lucera: From Troia, famous for its magnificent Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, a masterpiece of Apulian Romanesque architecture with a splendid rose window, it is a 22-kilometre journey to Lucera, renowned for its imposing Swabian-Angevin fortress and beautiful Gothic cathedral, which bears witness to the town’s mediaeval past.
2. Lucera - San Severo: starting from Lucera, in 25 km you reach San Severo, a baroque jewel that has earned the title of City of Art.
3. San Severo – Stignano: From San Severo, you set off again for Stignano, a journey of around 20 km along a road that is mostly dirt. This route takes you from the Tavoliere plain to the gateway to the Gargano. In Stignano, we recommend visiting the Sanctuary.
4. Stignano – San Giovanni Rotondo: The fifth stage, from Stignano to San Giovanni Rotondo, covers 20 km. Characterised by significant changes in elevation, this is a challenging stage. Once in San Giovanni Rotondo, however, you can visit the world-famous Sanctuary of San Pio of Pietrelcina.
5. San Giovanni Rotondo – Monte Sant'Angelo: The final stage, from San Giovanni Rotondo to Monte Sant'Angelo, covers 24 km and climbs to the top of a ridge from which you can enjoy sweeping views of the sea and the town of Monte Sant'Angelo. Finally, the arrival at the Sanctuary of Monte Sant’Angelo is a truly unforgettable experience.
These stages offer a unique journey through faith, art and breathtaking landscapes.
