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Starting from Piazza del Sacrario, in the heart of Viterbo, the route passes through the scenic Piazza del Plebiscito, dominated by the Palazzo dei Priori, and then heads towards the mighty mediaeval walls. You leave the city through Porta Romana, a historic gateway that symbolically marks the transition from the urban environment to the quiet of the countryside.
You continue, passing under Porta San Biele and along Via della Grotticella, gradually starting to climb towards Strada Roncone. Here the landscape changes: a picturesque path begins, immersed in forests of chestnut and oak trees, where the shade of the trees accompanies the pilgrim on a silent and regenerating stretch.
The route leads to the village of San Martino al Cimino, a hamlet of Viterbo, one of the most fascinating towns in Tuscia. You enter through the Porta Nord, skirting the majestic Abbey of San Martino al Cimino, an extraordinary 13th-century Cistercian complex that dominates the town with its austere and solemn architecture. After crossing the entire village, full of medieval views and a cosy atmosphere, you exit through the South Gate, gradually returning to nature.
The path continues for a few kilometres on easy paths in the undergrowth, alternating with short paved sections on local roads with little traffic. Along the route, there are panoramic views to the north, in the direction of Montefiascone, with sweeping views of the Lazio countryside.
You then enter the woods of Monte Fogliano, an area of great natural value. Here you follow shady, well-marked paths, slightly downhill, leading to the village of Tre Croci, a hamlet of Vetralla surrounded by greenery.
From Tre Croci, a short stretch on dirt roads leads to Vetralla, passing near the ancient area of Foro Cassio, an important testimony to the Etruscan-Roman era along the historic Via Cassia.
It is also possible to reach Vetralla by following the B21 cycle route (Viterbo–Sutri), an alternative suitable for those travelling the Via Francigena by bicycle.
A rich and varied stage, combining medieval historic centres, Cistercian spirituality and immersion in the forests of Tuscia, offering the pilgrim an intense and deeply authentic experience.
