The Via Francigena and the Camino de Santiago stand out as two of the most iconic pilgrimage routes in Europe, with centuries of history and spiritual tradition behind them. Both have been traversed by millions of pilgrims over the years, becoming not only paths of faith but also significant symbols of European cultural and human heritage.
The Via Francigena has its origins in the Middle Ages as a path connecting Canterbury, in England, with Rome, the seat of Western Christianity. Meanwhile, the Camino de Santiago, with its final destination being the Santiago de Compostela Cathedral in Galicia, established itself as one of the most important routes of medieval Christianity.
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What is the Via Francigena?
The Via Francigena is one of the oldest and most significant pilgrimage routes in Europe.
It connects Canterbury (United Kingdom) with Rome (Italy), two of the most important epicentres of Christianity. Its name comes from medieval Latin and means “Way of the Franks.” The reason is that it was originally used by pilgrims from Northern Europe heading to the Eternal City, the heart of the Christian world during the Middle Ages.
Its origins date back to the 9th century, when it began to establish itself as one of the main routes for pilgrims seeking to reach Rome, the location of St Peter’s tomb. It was used by both devoted pilgrims and merchants and travellers, and came to be considered an essential communication route between northern and southern Europe.
The historical importance of the route was documented by Sigeric, the Archbishop of Canterbury. This man undertook a detailed record of his journey back to England after visiting Rome to receive the Pope’s pallium in the year 990 AD.
Main stages and key points of the route
The Via Francigena covers approximately 2,000 kilometres through England, France, Switzerland, and Italy. It traverses diverse landscapes ranging from the green English countryside to the imposing Alps and Italian valleys. Among the key points of the route are:
- Canterbury (United Kingdom): the starting point of the Via Francigena, famous for its Gothic cathedral, a site declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Calais and Arras (France): transit areas in French territory, where pilgrims enjoyed hospitality in monasteries and small communities.
- Great St. Bernard Pass (Switzerland): one of the most spectacular sections, where pilgrims crossed the Alps. Here is the famous hospice founded by St. Bernard in the 11th century.
- Vercelli and Pavia (Italy): key cities in the Italian section, known for their historical landmarks, such as the Basilica of St. Andrew in Vercelli.
- Rome (Italy): the final destination, where pilgrims completed their journey at St. Peter’s Basilica, the spiritual centre of Christianity.
This route has been recognised as a European Cultural Itinerary by the Council of Europe in 1994. This recognition highlights the route’s importance as a bridge between cultures and traditions. Furthermore, it underscores its role in promoting sustainable tourism and the preservation of heritage.
Connection between the Via Francigena and the Camino de Santiago
The Via Francigena and the Camino de Santiago are connected in ways that go deeper than they may first appear.
Both are international pilgrimage routes sharing a common essence: they are paths of spiritual transformation, cultural encounter and historical legacy that have endured through the centuries. While the Via Francigena leads to the heart of Christianity in Rome, the Camino de Santiago guides pilgrims to the tomb of the Apostle James in Galicia. However, their connection transcends mere destinations.
Historically, these two routes have served as central axes of European Christianity. During the Middle Ages, pilgrimages to Santiago de Compostela and Rome represented, along with Jerusalem, the three great spiritual destinations of the Christian world.
Often, pilgrims embarked on a journey that encompassed both routes, consolidating a geographical and spiritual connection between them. For example, those arriving at Santiago from the French Way could subsequently continue their journey to Rome, passing through sections that are now part of the Via Francigena.
This intersection of paths has remained alive through the centuries. For instance, the start of the Camino from Ferrol is a clear testament to the maritime connection between pilgrims from Northern Europe and the Iberian Peninsula. This section was frequented by those who disembarked in Galicia after traversing the Via Francigena from Canterbury.
Spiritual Connection
On a spiritual level, the two routes share a similar philosophy: pilgrimage as a means of introspection, encounter, and connection with the divine. Both offer walkers a unique opportunity to reconnect with their cultural and spiritual roots, establishing a profound connection with the soul and a transcendent purpose on their journey.
The Camino, especially in its final sections, such as the route from Santiago to Finisterre, perfectly complements the symbolism of the Via Francigena.
Finisterre, known as the “end of the earth”, invites a unique introspection that not only marks the end of a pilgrimage but also the beginning of a new stage in the pilgrim’s life—something very similar happens to many upon reaching Rome after crossing the Alps and Tuscany on the Via Francigena.
Cultural Connection
In practical terms, these routes also share a commitment to preserving the European cultural and human heritage. Both have been recognised as European Cultural Itineraries and have significantly contributed to promoting sustainable tourism, connecting with local traditions and respecting the natural environment.
For those who wish to experience both routes, an interesting option could be to start from the Primitive Way from Asturias. This route is renowned for its natural and historical beauty. Alternatively, the route along the English Way also offers a natural transition into the European route.
Thus, traversing both the Via Francigena and the Camino de Santiago is not only a unique experience but also a tribute to the cultural and spiritual legacy that has connected northern and southern Europe for over a thousand years.
And what about their difficulty?
In both cases, the difficulty varies depending on the chosen section.
The Via Francigena, with its 2,000 km, includes challenges such as crossing the Alps at the Great St. Bernard Pass, making it physically more demanding at certain points. If you are looking for information from O Cebreiro to Santiago, you’ll find that there is less distance and it is more accessible.
Is there any type of dual credential?
No. They are two pilgrimages with symbolic connections, but there is no joint accreditation, as is the case with the Kumano Kodo.
Why undertake the Via Francigena as a complement to the Camino de Santiago?
Traversing both the Via Francigena and the Camino de Santiago provides pilgrims with a unique experience of immersion into European cultures. Although they share a common spiritual foundation, the differences in landscapes, cuisine, and traditions are noteworthy.
- On the Via Francigena, pilgrims enjoy the Swiss Alps, Italian vineyards, and the historic cities of Tuscany—all while tasting dishes such as truffle pasta and local cheeses.
- On the Camino de Santiago, walkers traverse the green landscapes of Galicia, enjoy octopus a la gallega, and explore local traditions in villages that seem to be frozen in time.
These differences enrich the experience, allowing pilgrims to discover the cultural diversity of Europe.
The spiritual and cultural richness of combining both routes
Both routes offer a unique opportunity to connect with history, faith, and nature, but each provides distinct nuances.
While the Camino de Santiago centres on the figure of the Apostle James and Jacobean spirituality, the Via Francigena invites pilgrims to delve into the history of Roman Christianity. Combining the two offers a more complete and meaningful experience, intertwining the major milestones of Christian spirituality.
Recommendations for pilgrims who want to experience both routes
Traversing both the Via Francigena and the Camino de Santiago in one trip is an exciting challenge that requires planning and commitment. Below are some key recommendations to help you enjoy this unique experience:
Detailed planning of the stages
Divide your journey into realistic sections according to your physical experience and time available. An ideal option is to start from Ferrol, allowing you to reach Santiago in a few days and then direct your efforts towards the initial stages of the Via Francigena, such as from Canterbury to Calais.
Consider the logistics of the journey
Planning how you will travel between the routes is essential. From Santiago, it is possible to travel to France or Italy by train or plane to join the Via Francigena. Research transport and accommodation services at key connection points, such as the areas around Rome or the Alps. Hiring logistical support services, such as luggage transfers or guided tours, can simplify the process.
Physical and mental preparation
Each route has its own unique challenges. While the Camino de Santiago includes stages with moderate inclines, the Via Francigena demands more physical endurance in certain sections. It is important to train in advance and bring the appropriate equipment, including comfortable footwear and versatile clothing suitable for varying climates.
