Canterbury to Rome 1200 miles Look how the original pilgrims travelled – by horseback if they could afford it. Bev is doing the modern equivalent – travelling by open-topped car. However, not being too concerned about historical accuracy, the roof will be up if the weather dictates.
The Via Francigena was first mentioned in the 3rd century and is Europe's oldest route of pilgrimage. After leaving England, it winds through Arras and Reims (France) and Lausanne (Switzerland) before reaching Tuscany and some of Italy's most beautiful landscapes, before heading down to Rome, the eternal city.
The earliest map of the road was made in around 990 by Sigeric the Serious, the then Archbishop of Canterbury, who made the pilgrimage to Rome to receive his pallium (ecclesiastical vestments.)
We expect to have set off by 24th September, and for the journey down to take about 11 days, with plenty of stops to see the sights and drive beautiful routes.
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