Earning the Testimonium on the Via Francigena
Are you walking the Via Francigena and interested in earning the pilgrim’s certificate for completing the way? Pilgrims who walk the last 100km along the Via Francigena (or those who cycle the last 200km of the route) can earn the Testimonium upon arrival at St. Peter’s.
The Testimonium is a document that certifies the completion of a pilgrimage to Rome undertaken in a religious spirit. Historically this document was important because when the pilgrim returned home he could prove that the pilgrimage was fulfilled, and his vows discharged.
Similar to the Compestela along the Camino de Santiago, pilgrims wishing to receive the Testimonium in Rome must present a stamped credential upon arrival showing stamps for each day walked for at least the final 100km.
WALKING THE FINAL 100KM
The start point of the final 100km of the Via Francigena is the fortress hill town of Montefiascone. From Montefiascone, the stages for the walk to Rome are generally as follows:
- Montefiascone to Viterbo (18km)
- Viterbo to Vetralla (18 km)
- Vetralla to Sutri (24 km)
- Sutri to Campagnano di Roma (27 km)
- Campagnano to La Storta(24 kms)
- La Storta to Rome (19 km)
These stages may vary based upon a pilgrim’s preferences for accommodations as well as conditions along the route. It is suggested that you review the most updated list of albergues prior to finalizing your Via Francigena pilgrimage.
WHERE TO OBTAIN THE TESTIMONIUM
The Testimonium is available from:
- the office of the “Opera Romana Pellegrinaggi” in St. Peter’s Square (Piazza Pio XII, 9), on the right of Bernini’s colonnade standing with your back to the Basilica and at St. Giovanni dei Fiorentini (piazza dell’Oro, 1). Opening hours: mon-sat 9:30am-4:30pm. Please note the office is closed on Sundays and holy days. Info: St Peter’s Square Office, ph +39 06 69896379, mail romacristiana@orpnet.org
- the offices of the rectory of St. Peters. Use the Petriano entrance in piazza S. Uffizio. Opening hours: every day except Wednesday and Sunday from 8:30 to 12:30. Info: sig. Patrizio Menna Valerio, Tel +39 06 69883731
For more information on the Testimonium, please see the official Via Francigena organization website.
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE VIA FRANCIGENA
- Via Francigena Packing List – Updated 2022
- Via Francigena Stages: Canterbury to Dover
- Where are the Apostles of Jesus Buried?
- Earning the Testimonium on the Via Francigena
- Key Differences Between the Camino de Santiago and Via Francigena
- A Beginners Guide to the Via Francigena
- Layering Ultralight Clothing for Pilgrimage Backpacking
- 2021 British Pilgrimage Packing List
- Packing List: Backpacking Gear for England’s Pilgrims’ Way
- PILGRIM RESOURCES FOR COVID-19
- The Top Hiking GPS Apps for iPhone and Android
- HOW TO: Follow Trail Markers and Trail Blazes in Europe
- PACKING LIST: Trekking The World
- PACKING LIST: Backpacking First-Aid Kit
- PACKING LIST: First-Aid Kit for Blisters and Foot Care
- HOW TO: Five Tips for Urban Hiking
Husband. Father. Backpacker. Pilgrim. Author.
After years of section hiking the Florida Trail and Appalachian Trail, I set out in 2019 to complete the Camino de Santiago through Portugal and Spain. The experience changed the direction of my life and I’ve been walking in pilgrimage ever since. My recent journeys include the California Mission Walk and England’s Pilgrims’ Way from London to Canterbury. I’m currently walking sections of the Via Francigena through Europe to Rome.
Follow me on social media or walk virtually alongside me on the Sacred Steps Podcast and in my upcoming book, Sacred Steps: A Pilgrimage Journal.