The Via Francigena: the final 100 kilometres

The final 100 kilometres of the Via Francigena – the most symbolic and eagerly awaited section of one of Europe’s great pilgrimage routes – is a walking route that leads all the way to St Peter’s Square, following in the footsteps of pilgrims and travellers who, for centuries, have travelled this historic route linking Northern Europe with Rome. Starting from Viterbo, with its extraordinary medieval quarter of San Pellegrino and the Palazzo dei Papi, the route passes through some of the most evocative landscapes of the Lazio countryside. Along the route, you’ll encounter the ancient Etruscan ‘vie cave’, the Sorbo Valley, the great pine trees of the Roman countryside and important examples of the Etruscan-Roman heritage. Among the most fascinating stops is Sutri, with its famous archaeological site, the amphitheatre carved into the rock and the Mithraeum. It is ideal to plan for December, when Viterbo and Rome prepare for Christmas with markets, illuminations and a festive atmosphere.