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A stage on the Consuma Pass branch.
Towards the Sacro Monte through the Holy Valley, a wild and rugged expanse that offers unusual views of the Casentino. The landscape is an alternation of meadows, gullies and narrow gorges; the view is dotted with historical and religious landmarks. Shortly after leaving the village of Badia Prataglia, you come across the Traccia della Madonna, a mysterious mark of the Virgin Mary imprinted in the stone, steeped in mystery and legend. This is followed by the small but evocative hamlets of Frassineta - with its delightful little church of St Giles, and Our Lady of the Seven Swords and Seven Sorrows - and Rimbocchi, where the geological formations known as the Giants' Cauldrons offer a true natural spectacle. Not only that, but there is also a culinary spectacle for those who like to combine walking with fine food. In this area, the famous and exquisite 'tortelli alla lastra' have been prepared since ancient times, as well as traditional baked goods such as bread, cakes and artisanal biscuits from Rimbocchi.
Surrounded by the monumental forest, the Franciscan sanctuary of La Verna now appears, with all its charm and mysticism. It is perched on a rocky spur, at an altitude of more than 1,100 metres, along the southern slopes of Monte Penna. A place of peace and spirituality completely immersed in nature, it is here that St Francis is believed to have received the stigmata, on 14 September 1224.
