Where did the ‘Route’ come from?

Via Francigena- Northern

The writer of the Itinerarium Burdigalense listed the places where the group stopped overnight or to change their horses. This  pilgrim travelled from Bordeaux to the Holy Land via the overland route through Constantinople, partly by boat on the way back, landing in Otranto (Puglia) and then walking/riding north to Rome, on to Milan, and then to France, making the trip into a circle tour.

The Via Francigena is a vast medieval pilgrimage network primarily known for leading to Rome. The “Southern” extension connected Rome to Puglia’s ports, including Leuca, making it an essential link for pilgrims traveling further east to the Holy Land after visiting the apostolic sites in Rome. Thus, Leuca, while not on the main “Canterbury to Rome” Francigena, was a vital extension for the grander Christian pilgrimage to Jerusalem, creating a symbolic connection to the apostolic journeys.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Extension to Puglia and the Holy Land

“Via Francigena” (or more broadly, “Vie Romee”) encompasses a network of routes leading to Rome. Importantly, for pilgrims and Crusaders journeying to the Holy Land, Rome was often a stopover before they continued south.

• • The Via Francigena del Sud (Southern Via Francigena) extends from Rome down to Puglia. This southern branch was crucial because it led to the port cities of Puglia (like Bari, Brindisi, and also Santa Maria di Leuca) from where pilgrims could embark by sea for Jerusalem.

• • Evidence of early Christian presence in Puglia can be seen in Catacombs and Rock Churches.  Places like the Crypt of Santa Cristina in Carpignano Salentino Sanctuary of Monte Sant’ Angelo, Necropolis of San Nicola di Myra in Vieste and they  provide insights into early Christian rock settlements and worship, often featuring ancient Byzantine frescoes.  Early dioceses in towns like Ruvo di Puglia points to organized Christian communities from ancient times.

• • Maritime Routes: Puglia’s coastal location meant it was connected to the Eastern Mediterranean, where Christianity first flourished. Trade and travel would have facilitated the spread of the new faith.

• • Santa Maria di Leuca, as the “end of the earth” and a significant port, became a crucial departure point for those continuing their pilgrimage to the Holy Land, linking it indirectly to the broader network of the Via Francigena, which had its ultimate spiritual destination in the apostolic tombs in Rome and then Jerusalem.

 

 

 

 

 

The Via Francigena del Sud Experience

The Via Francigena del Sud offers a rich and diverse experience for pilgrims and travelers seeking to explore the historical, cultural, and natural beauty of southern Italy. Unlike the more established northern sections of the Via Francigena (e.g., in Tuscany), the southern route, particularly from Rome to Santa Maria di Leuca, has been more recently “officially” approved and developed, leading to a somewhat different but equally rewarding journey.

 

 

 

 

What you can expect from the

Via Francigena del Sud Trail?

 

Historical and Cultural Immersion on Via Francigena del Sud

Ancient Roman Roads: A significant part of the Via Francigena del Sud follows ancient Roman consular roads like the Appian Way (Via Appia). Walking on these original, often still-paved roads, you’ll feel a deep connection to centuries of history, passing by catacombs, ruins of temples, mausoleums, and villas.

 

 

Medieval Towns and Villages:  The route winds through charming medieval cities and small hamlets, each with its own unique history and character. You’ll encounter castles, ancient city walls, and churches that have witnessed centuries of life and pilgrimage.

Byzantine and Norman Heritage: In Puglia, you’ll see a strong influence of Byzantine and later Norman architecture and culture in the churches and historical sites, reflecting the region’s diverse past.

Pilgrimage Sites: Visit spectacular churches, Cathedrals and Basilicas – even Purgatory Churches

 

Diverse Landscapes

Puglia’s Coastline and Countryside: The Puglia section offers a striking contrast, as it stretches along the stunning Salento coastline (from Otranto to Santa Maria di Leuca), passing through seaside villages, vineyards, fig orchards, and ancient olive trees.  You will experience the grandeur of castles, and simple farmers markets.  Expect to meet people that are generous, kind and pleased to meet you.

 

 

 

 

 

Authenticity and “Off-the-Beaten-Path” Feel

Less Crowded: Compared to the Camino de Santiago or even some northern sections of the Via Francigena, the Via Francigena del Sud is generally less crowded. This offers a more solitary and contemplative experience for many pilgrims.

Local Interactions: You’ll have more opportunities for genuine interactions with local people in the smaller towns and villages. Many pilgrims recount heartwarming experiences of hospitality and kindness from locals, even with language barriers.

Traditional Life: The route often takes you through areas where traditional Italian life continues, with farmers tending their crops, local markets, and a slower pace of life.

The Food – Mama Mia!  Farm to table- Sea to table.  Fresh Olive oil, Beautiful wines, homemade pastas, breads and desserts.  What’s not to love?

 

Challenges and Practicalities

Variations:  While a historic guidebook gave precise routes, sites and waypoints on the route from Canterbury to Rome, the southern route has many variations based on the final port, and the effort to include significant and ancient religious sites.  It is well-known that Saints and pilgrims continued their journeys from Rome and out of ports such as Santa Maria di Leuca, Brindisi, or Bari.

Travel your way:  Based on the time available, travelers may chose portions of the trail.  For those who are not long-distance hikers, it is also possible to cycle, e-bike, or follow the map by car.

Waymarking: While the route is increasingly well-marked, some sections might be less consistently signed than the main northern Francigena. Use a guidebook, GPX files, and/or a travel app for navigation.

Accommodation: While there are increasing options for pilgrim-friendly accommodation (including B&Bs and family-run hotels, sometimes agriturismos), the network of dedicated pilgrim hostels (albergues) are less extensive than on other parts of the Via Francigena

Weather: Southern Italy can be very hot in summer (July and August), making walking more challenging. Spring (March to early June) and autumn (mid-September to mid-November) are generally considered the best times to walk.

Terrain: The difficulty is generally moderate, suitable for most abilities, but some stages can be long or involve steep uphill sections with rough surfaces. Good fitness and sturdy footwear are recommended.

Language: While basic Italian phrases are helpful, many locals in smaller towns may not speak English. Google Translate can be a valuable tool.

 

Overall Experience

The Via Francigena del Sud is an unforgettable journey that combines physical challenge with profound cultural and spiritual enrichment. It’s an opportunity to delve deep into the history of Italy, experience its diverse landscapes, and connect with local communities. Many pilgrims describe it as a transformative experience that fosters self-reflection, builds confidence, and creates lasting memories. Whether you’re a seasoned pilgrim or a curious traveler, the “Road to Rome” in the south offers a unique and authentic Italian adventure on foot or on e-bike.  Experience an organized tour- or walk a sections at your pace.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Otranto Cathedral (Cattedrale di Santa Maria Annunziata)

 

Norman Architecture: Built in the 11th century, it’s a beautiful example of Apulian Romanesque style with Gothic and Baroque additions.

Tree of Life Mosaic: The entire floor is covered in an intricate 12th-century mosaic, one of the world’s largest, featuring biblical scenes, saints, and mythical figures.

Chapel of the Martyrs: A solemn space displaying the skulls and relics of the 813 martyrs, a powerful reminder of the 1480 Ottoman siege.

Crypt: The underground levels hold Byzantine-style capitals and medieval frescoes. 

 

 

 

Other things you will want to see in Otranto

 

 

Carpignano Salentino

 

 

Crypt of Santa Cristina

The First Testimony: It represents the earliest evidence of Byzantine Greek rituals in the Carpignano area.

Unique Documentation: Unlike most contemporary sites, the crypt features Greek inscriptions that clearly name the painters and the patrons who commissioned the work.

Two Chambers: The structure consists of two rock-cut chambers (a crypt and a vestibule) and was likely a family chapel

(also known as the Cripta della Madonna delle Grazie) in Carpignano Salentino is one of the mostt significant archeological and religious sites in Southern Italy.  Entirely carved into the limestone rock, it contains the oldest known dated and signed Byzantine frescoes in the Mediterranean, with the earliest inscriptions dating back to May 959 AD

 

 

 

 

Other Great things to do in Lecce

 

 

Via Francigena del Sud Part 2

 

 

 

 

Just outside of Lecce

 

 

Monopoli

 

 

 

Polignano a Mare

 

• History: Consecrated in 1295, it was built on the remains of a former pagan temple and served as the town’s cathedral until 1955.
• Architecture & Art: The church combines Gothic and Baroque elements. The interior, which is free to enter, features valuable artworks by Apulian artists and a significant stone nativity scene by Stefano da Putignano, which was designated a national monument. It also has a large 18th-century pipe organ and a monumental high altar. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

See the sites in Polignano a Mare

 

 

 

Bari

 

 

Basilica di San Nicola

(Saint Nicholas Basilica): A major world pilgrimage destination, this 11th-century Romanesque church houses the relics of Saint Nicholas. It is uniquely significant as a site of ecumenical unity where both Catholic and Orthodox Christians worship, with an Orthodox chapel located in its crypt. Visitors often descend to the crypt to see the saint’s tomb and the “Manna of St. Nicholas,” a liquid believed to have healing properties that exudes from his relics.

How & Why did St. Nicholas’ remains end up in Bari, Italy?

It is said that Saint Nicholas never traveled outside of the Middle East, and never to Italy.  After Nicholas’ death, sometime between 333 and 343, his Demre, Myra(Turkey) tomb became an international destination for Christian pilgrims.

The town of Bari was struggling- it needed a miracle.  Italian merchants sent an expedition of three ships in 1087.  In fact, Venetian soldiers had also set sail to steel the relics- but by the time the Venetians arrived, the Bari sailors had already stolen the the major bones- The gig was up.

The 62 sailors from Bari, Italy, came ashore, broke into the tomb and hastily removed the major bones.  They took them on board their ship and delivered them to Bari on May 9.  These early tomb raiders were considered heroes and received concessions from the church, and the construction of the Basilica started soon after.

Who was St. Nicholas?

Saint Nicholas was an early Christian Bishop of the ancient Greek city of Myra (modern-day Turkey). During his life he gained the reputation for his acts of charity and protecting the vulnerable.  His reputation grew as a great miracle worker.  Nicholas had the heart of a servant as he gave coins to girls without a dowry, and gold to those in poverty.

On December 6th (the Feast of St. Nicholas), in many countries today, children wake up to find coins (a remembrance of the coins he gave to girls), and oranges (representing the gold he gave to the poor) in their shoes.  The tradition of these legends of generosity led to the Santa Claus celebrated on Christmas day today.

 

 

 

Cathedral di San Sabino

(Bari Cathedral): Technically the city’s most important church as the seat of the Archbishop, it is a masterpiece of Apulian Romanesque architecture. Built over ancient Byzantine and Roman ruins, it features a stunning rose window and a crypt holding the remains of Saint Sabinus. A unique light phenomenon occurs here during the summer solstice when sunlight through the rose window aligns perfectly with a mosaic on the floor.  An archaeological site beneath the Cathedral reveals layers of Bari’s history, including 5th-century early Christian basilica remains and intricate mosaics like the Mosaic of Timothy.

 

 

Basilica Pontificia di Madonna del Pozzo

(Capurso): Located just a few kilometers outside Bari, this 18th-century Baroque sanctuary is a major regional pilgrimage site. It was built to honor a miraculous icon of the Virgin Mary found in a well, and the “well water” is still sought by the faithful for its perceived healing powers.

 

 

25 things to do in Bari

 

 

 

Trani

 

Cathedral of Trani

Known for its stunning position overlooking the sea, the Cathedral of Trani is one of the most famous examples of Apulian Romanesque architecture. It is an important and visually striking stop along the coastal route north from Bari.

 

 

Church of All Saints

Also known as the “Church of the Templars,” this 12th-century building was traditionally used to bless Crusaders before they departed for the Holy Land. It is famous for its three sea-facing apses and its alignment with the sunrise on All Saints’ Day.

 

See more in Trani

 

 

 

 

Lama Volara

 

Abbazia di San Leonardo in Lama Volara

• Historical & Religious Role: Established by the Canons Regular of St. Augustine around 1000 C.E., it later became a critical shelter and hospital for pilgrims and Crusaders travelling to the Holy Land. From 1260 to 1480, it was managed by the Teutonic Knights.
• Architectural Significance: It is considered a jewel of Apulian Romanesque art, featuring a highly detailed, decorated portal (sculpted with beasts and religious scenes) and a three-nave structure.
• Solar Phenomenon: On the summer solstice (June 21), a sunbeam passes through a hole in the roof to illuminate a specific point on the floor/wall, a phenomenon that also occurs during the autumn equinox.
• Location & Legacy: Located near Manfredonia, it lies along the Via Francigena and is now a center for spiritual reflection managed by the “Reconstructors in Prayer”. 

 

 

 

Monte Sant’ Angelo

 

Abbazia ed Eremi di Pulsano (near Monte Sant’Angelo)

Just southwest of Monte Sant’Angelo lies this 12th-century monastic complex with hermitages carved into the hillside, offering incredible views of the Gulf of Manfredonia. It is a place of deep spiritual reflection and natural beauty. 

 

 

 

Sanctuary of San Michele Arcangelo 

This Sanctuary is an ancient and vital Christian shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the oldest shrine in Western Europe dedicated to the Archangel Michael. The heart of the sanctuary is a natural cave where the Archangel is said to have appeared multiple times. Popes, saints (including St. Francis of Assisi), and kings have visited this “Celestial Basilica” over the centuries

 

 

 

Chiesa di San Francesco d’Assisi (or Santa Maria della Valle)

 A 13th-century church noted for its historical, artistic, and spiritual significance, built on the foundations of an even older 10th-century Lombard church dedicated to San Costanzo. 

The Miracle of Rain: Tradition states that Saint Francis visited Benevento during a pilgrimage to Monte Sant’Angelo. During a severe drought, he is said to have prayed at the site, successfully obtaining the “grace of rain”.

Franciscan Foundation: Following this miracle, the existing church of San Costanzo was donated to the Franciscan friars, marking the birth of the community of Friars Minor Conventual in the city. 

The current structure largely dates from the 14th century, though it underwent significant abandonment in the 18th century when it was repurposed as army barracks. It was recovered and restored in the 1960s, preserving its intimate atmosphere despite some loss of original artistic treasures.  A unique characteristic of the complex is its two cloisters, which provide a sense of “religious silence” typical of Franciscan spiritual centers. A wall dividing the two cloisters and a single fresco are the only remaining physical traces of the original 950 AD pre-existing church.

 

 

 

San Giovanni Rotondo

 

Sanctuary of Saint Pio of Pietrelcina 

Located inland in the Gargano area, this modern sanctuary and the adjacent Santa Maria delle Grazie church attract around seven million visitors annually who come to honor Saint Pio (Padre Pio), who lived and ministered here for many years. It is a relatively recent but globally significant pilgrimage site.

• Sanctuary of Santa Maria delle Grazie (Old Church): This 16th-century church is the heart of the complex where Padre Pio spent much of his life, heard confessions, and received the stigmata in 1918.
• Church of St. Padre Pio (New Church): A large, modern church designed by architect Renzo Piano, inaugurated in 2004 to accommodate the massive number of pilgrims.
• Crypt of Saint Padre Pio: Located within the Santa Maria delle Grazie complex, this is where the saint’s body rested for 40 years before being moved.
• Padre Pio’s Cell and Convent: Visitors can view the small, spartan room where the friar lived, as well as the choir loft where he received the stigmata.
• Via Crucis Monumentale (Way of the Cross): A monumental Way of the Cross featuring bronze and marble sculptures, located on the hillside behind the convent.
• Church of San Giovanni Battista (The “Rotonda”): An ancient, circular 6th-century building in the historical town center from which the town derives its name. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Gargano

 

Santuario di San Matteo (Gargano) 

An ancient monastery, part of the pilgrimage routes near Foggia.

• Historical Significance: Originally known as the Convent of San Giovanni in Lamis, it was established by the Benedictines around the 10th century and has served as a center for pilgrims and transumanti (shepherds) for centuries.
• Cultural Hub: The site functions as a significant cultural center, housing a major library dedicated to Father Antonio Fania, which includes 60,000 volumes, ancient Bibles, and historical maps.
• Religious Importance: It is a key stop for pilgrims in the area, particularly with its proximity to San Giovanni Rotondo (St. Pius of Pietrelcina). The church holds a relic of Saint Matthew the Apostle.
• Location and Architecture: Situated at the foot of Mount Celano (871m above sea level) in the Gargano National Park, the monastery is surrounded by natural scenery.
• Museums: The complex includes a Devotional Museum and a Lapidary Museum, showcasing artifacts, statues, and artworks from the region’s history. 

 

 

 

 

Foggia

 

 

 

 

Chiesa delle Croci (Church of the Crosses)

A unique 17th-century complex featuring a 1693 archway, five chapels representing the road to Calvary, and the Church of St. Leonardo.  The complex was built between 1693 and 1742. Its origin is tied to a penitential procession led by the Capuchin friar Antonio da Olivadi during a severe drought. 

 

 

 

 

Benevento

 

Church of Santa Sofia (Benevento)

A UNESCO World Heritage site and part of the “Longobards in Italy” network, known for its unique architectural structure.

• UNESCO World Heritage Site: In 2011, it was inscribed as part of the “Longobards in Italy: Places of Power” serial site, which recognizes the Lombards’ unique cultural and architectural legacy.
• Unique Stellar Layout: Founded around 760 AD by Duke Arechis II, the church features a rare “star-shaped” floor plan. It consists of a central hexagon supported by ancient columns, surrounded by a decagonal ring of pillars.
• National Sanctuary: It served as the central temple and votive chapel for the Lombard people, designed to reflect their political power and spiritual devotion.
• Byzantine Influence: Its name and structure are modeled after the Hagia Sophia in Constantinople, blending Western Lombard traditions with Eastern Byzantine aesthetic.
• Artistic Survivors: While much was lost in a 1688 earthquake and subsequent Baroque reconstruction, the church still preserves 8th-century frescoes in its side apses—rare examples of Lombard painting.  The church is part of a larger complex that includes a 12th-century Romanesque cloister and the Museo del Sannio, which houses significant archaeological finds including an Egyptian obelisk from the Temple of Isis

 

 

Basilica of Saint Bartholomew (Benevento)

 A major church holding the relics of Saint Bartholomew the Apostle, which were brought to the city in the 9th century.

• Shrine of Modern Martyrs: In 2000, Pope John Paul II dedicated the basilica to the “new martyrs” of the 20th and 21st centuries. It houses relics and memorabilia of contemporary martyrs from various continents, including victims of Nazism, Communism, and modern conflicts.

 

• Apostolic Relics: The basilica contains what are believed to be the relics of St. Bartholomew, one of the Twelve Apostles, housed in a red porphyry sarcophagus under the main altar.
• Historical Significance: It was built on the site of the ancient Temple of Aesculapius, replacing a pagan healing center with a Christian one, thus continuing a tradition of care on Tiber Island.  Rebuilt in the 17th century after a flood, it features a Baroque facade, a 12th-century Romanesque bell tower, an ancient well, and a 19th-century coffered ceiling.
• Ecumenical Focus: The basilica serves as a place of memory for martyrs across different Christian denominations. 

 

Basilica Madonna delle Grazie (Benevento)

A significant pilgrimage spot housing a 16th-century wooden statue of Our Lady of Grace, considered the patroness of the city. 

• Spiritual Significance: It is a major site of devotion to the Virgin Mary, patroness of Sannio, with annual celebrations held in July.
• Padre Pio Connection: The basilica is famous for being the place where Padre Pio said his first Mass in 1910 and continued to do so until 1916; a lock of his hair is also displayed.
• Artistic Masterpiece: The main altar features a renowned 16th-century wooden statue of the Madonna with Child, carved by Giovanni da Nola.
• Architecture & Decor: The church features a neoclassical facade, a cruciform layout, and modern bronze reliefs of the Via Crucis by Andrea Martini.  The basilica is equipped with two pipe organs from the Mascioni company. 

 

Pietrelcina (near Benevento)

The birthplace of Padre Pio, which features his childhood home and the chapel where he celebrated his first mass. Located 13km northeast of Benevento, it serves as a major pilgrimage site for those wishing to explore the early life and spiritual roots of the 20th-century mystic. 

Other Padre Pio Spiritual & Historical Sites

Casa Natale di Padre Pio: The modest stone house at Vico Storto Valle 27 where Francesco Forgione (Padre Pio) was born in 1887. Visitors can see the original single-room dwelling, complete with his childhood furniture and books.

Piana Romana: A rural area just outside the town center where the Forgione family owned land. It features the Chapel of St. Francis, which houses the elm tree where Padre Pio reportedly received his first invisible stigmata in 1910.

Convent of the Capuchin Fathers: A religious complex dedicated to the saint’s spirituality, featuring a museum with artifacts from his early priesthood.

Churches of Pietrelcina: Key religious sites include the Church of St. Anne, where he was baptized, and the Church of St. Mary of the Angels, where he celebrated his first Mass.

 

 

The Santuario San Michele e Santa Maria del Monte

(often referred to as the Sanctuary of San Michele) is a historic religious site located in Maddaloni, near Benevento.

 

• Longobard Heritage: Built during the 9th century, the sanctuary is a vital link to the religious and cultural life of the Duchy of Benevento. The Longobards adopted the Archangel Michael as their national protector, seeing in him traits similar to their pagan god of war.
• Pilgrimage Center: For centuries, it has served as a spiritual hub for pilgrims traveling through Southern Italy, particularly those following the Via Micaelica toward the larger Sanctuary of Monte Sant’Angelo.
• Strategic Location: Situated at a high altitude on the Colli Tifatini, it offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, including Caserta and Naples.  It is unique for its dedication to both St. Michael the Archangel and St. Maria del Monte, reflecting its evolution as a site of multiple devotions over time

 

 

 

 

Reggia Di Caserta

 

Teano

 

 

Basilica of Santa Maria della Libera

 Located in Alife, nearby to the route, this cathedral maintains noteworthy Lombard-Norman elements and a Romanesque crypt. The church is a local center for the cult of the Madonna della Libera. This devotion traditionally dates back to 663 AD in Benevento, where the Virgin was credited with freeing the city from a siege. The church honors the Virgin Mary often depicted with a cross on her palm, a symbol unique to this title, representing her power to deliver the faithful from physical and spiritual captivity.

 

 Similar to other churches of this name in the Campania region, it serves as a testament to the long-standing Dominican influence and local religious customs that have flourished since the 14th and 15th centuries.  Located in the Loc. Borgonuovo area of Teano, it functions as a primary parish for the surrounding community, maintaining active religious services and cultural heritage.

 

 

Basilica of Castelpetroso (Santuario di Maria SS. Addolorata)

Although slightly north in the Molise region, this neo-Gothic minor basilica is one of Southern Italy’s most famous modern pilgrimage sites, commemorating Marian apparitions from 1888. 

The sanctuary was built to commemorate the 1888 apparitions of the Virgin Mary reported by two peasant women, Bibiana and Serafina, while searching for a lost lamb. They witnessed the Virgin kneeling with the dead Christ at her feet in an act of offering. In 1973, Pope Paul VI proclaimed Our Lady of Sorrows of Castelpetroso the official patroness of the entire Molise region.

 Designed by Francesco Gualandi, the basilica is a rare Italian example of Neo-Gothic architecture. Its layout features a central 54-meter dome surrounded by seven chapels, symbolizing the Seven Sorrows of Mary. The Via Matris: A 750-meter spiritual path connects the sanctuary to the exact site of the apparitions on Mount Patalecchia. It features seven “stations” where pilgrims meditate on the major sorrows of the Virgin.  Papal Recognition: The site gained further international prominence following a visit by Pope John Paul II on March 19, 1995.

 

 

This is the oldest example of Cistercian Gothic architecture in Italy, consecrated in 1208.  The site is famous as the place where the philosopher-saint Thomas Aquinas died in 1274. You can visit the room where he spent his final days in the abbey’s infirmary.  Entry to the abbey complex is free and does not require a reservation.  The church and cloister are typically open daily from 8:30 AM to 6:30

 

 

 

 

Sanctuary of the Most Holy Trinity

A dramatic sanctuary built into a massive fissure in the rock of Mount Orlando.  It features the Crucifix Chapel, built over a boulder wedged between the cliffs, and the “Turk’s Handprint,” a miraculous indentation in the stone.

 

 

 

 

Significant Sites upon Entering Rome

 

 

 

 

Houses the tomb of Saint Paul and is one of the four major papal basilicas

 

 

 

 

Can you schedule a 1-day journey on the Via Francigena

from Santa Maria Di Leuca?

Yes- 1 day e-bike trips, and much longer hiking or cycling tours.

Scheduling a one-day e-bike trip on the Via Francigena from Santa Maria di Leuca is a great idea! Santa Maria di Leuca is actually the end point (or starting point, depending on your direction) of the Via Francigena in Italy, often called “De Finibus Terrae” (End of the Land).

Here’s how you can go about planning your trip:

1. E-Bike Rental in Santa Maria di Leuca:

This is your first and most crucial step. Luckily, Santa Maria di Leuca has several e-bike rental options:

• Veloce Bike Rental: Offers e-bike rentals with pick-up at accommodations. They provide quality e-bikes suitable for enjoying the Salento coast.  They also offer Santa Cesarea Terme to Leuca, Santa Cesarea Terme to Otranto, and Lecce cycling tours
• Slow Active Tours: Provides latest generation pedal-assisted bicycles with good battery range (over 100km). They also offer delivery services throughout Puglia and Basilicata.  In addition to the bike rental, they offer 6-8 day walking and cycling tours
• Apulia Bike Tours: Offers e-bike rentals with various specifications (aluminum frame, disc brakes, 418-500W battery).  They also offer a number of bike or hike tours and customizations
• Leuca Bici Tour Rental: Specializes in electric bicycle rentals in Santa Maria di Leuca, with options for half-day or full-day rentals. They also have information points in Marina di Leuca.
• Experience Hunter: Offers quality e-bike rentals with delivery in Santa Maria di Leuca and other parts of Puglia.

 

 

Recommendations for Rental:

• Book in advance: Especially during peak season, e-bikes can be in high demand.
• Inquire about battery range: For a full day of riding, ensure the e-bike has a sufficient battery range for your intended distance (e.g., 65-100km).
• Check what’s included: Most rentals include a lock and repair kit. Ask about helmets, pannier bags, and smartphone holders if you need them.
• Ask about delivery/pickup options: Some companies will deliver the e-bike to your accommodation in Santa Maria di Leuca, which can be very convenient.

 

2. Choosing Your One-Day Francigena Route:

Since Santa Maria di Leuca is the southernmost point of the Via Francigena, your one-day trip will involve heading north along the “final stretch” of the route (or the beginning, depending on perspective).

The Via Francigena in this area generally follows the coastline and passes through charming towns and natural landscapes. Here are some ideas for a one-day e-bike trip:

Santa Maria di Leuca to Tricase/Castro/Otranto:

• • Distance:
    • Santa Maria di Leuca to Tricase Porto: Approximately 20-25 km.
    • Santa Maria di Leuca to Castro Marina: Approximately 30-35 km.
    • Santa Maria di Leuca to Otranto: Approximately 50-55 km (one way).
  • Highlights: This coastal route is incredibly scenic, offering breathtaking views of the Ionian and Adriatic Seas meeting. You’ll pass picturesque harbors, sea caves, and cliffside towns.
  • Tricase Porto: A charming harbor town with colorful boats.
  • Castro Marina: Known for its sea caves and ancient roots, with a lovely cliffside setting. You could explore the Grotta Zinzulusa.
  • Otranto: A stunning historic town with an imposing Aragonese castle, a beautiful cathedral with a mosaic floor, and a vibrant old town. This would be a longer ride but very rewarding.
  • Consider a shorter loop or out-and-back: For a one-day trip, especially if you want to explore the towns, an out-and-back ride to Castro or Tricase might be more feasible than reaching Otranto and returning.

3. Planning Your Day:

• Morning: Pick up your e-bike early. Start your ride heading north from Santa Maria di Leuca.
• Mid-morning/Lunch: Enjoy the scenic coastal ride. Stop in one of the charming towns like Tricase Porto or Castro for a coffee, a snack, or a delicious seafood lunch.
• Afternoon: Continue exploring the area, or turn back towards Santa Maria di Leuca. If you reached a destination like Otranto, you might want to spend some time exploring its historic center before beginning your return journey (or arranging a transfer back if available from your rental company or a local taxi).
• Return: Head back to Santa Maria di Leuca to return your e-bike before the rental period ends.

 

4. Essential Tips for Your E-Bike Trip:

• Route Planning: While the Via Francigena is generally well-marked, having a reliable navigation app (like Google Maps, Komoot, or Bikemap) on your phone with the route downloaded offline is highly recommended. Many bike rental companies also provide access to navigation apps with preloaded tracks.
• Physical Preparation: While e-bikes provide assistance, you will still be cycling. Ensure you are comfortable with the distance and any elevation changes. The Salento coastline can have some undulating sections.

 

FAQs about the Francigena del Sud

 

What is the best time to complete the Francigen del Sud?

 Spring (April–June) and Autumn (September–October) are ideal to avoid intense Italian summer heat.

Are there enough accommodation choices along the Francigena del Sud? 

Yes, but it is developing compared to the north. Options are a mix of monasteries, gîtes, private hotels, and air b&bs.  Reserve ahead of time.

Do I need to book accommodations along the Francigena in advance? 

It is highly recommended to book accommodation ahead.

 

What should we expect with the terrain along the Via Francigena del Sud?

The route offers diverse scenery, including coastline, rural paths, farms, towns, and cities.  As opposed to the route in the north- most of the southern route is more flat to moderate rolling hills.

 

Is the Via Francigena del Sud well-marked? 

Signage exists but is inconsistent.  It is recommended to have your route planned in advance. 

 

 

 

 

Other Great Religious Sites

 

Purgatory Churches of Southern Italy

 

 

Monuments of Faith – Religious sites on Puglia