The Way of St. Benedict it winds for about 300 kilometers between Umbria and Laziouniting the towns of Norcia and Montecassinofor a route that represents a profound journey into the history, nature and spirituality of central Italy, ready to offer travelers the opportunity to explore fabulous landscapes, medieval villages and monuments of extraordinary cultural and religious value. The path it can be tackled both on foot and by bicycleand is divided into 16 main stages which offer a complete immersion in the most significant places linked to the life of Saint Benedict of Norcia.
The origins of the Camino and its meaning
The Camino di San Benedetto takes its name from the founding saint of the Benedictine order, one of the most influential religious figures of the European Middle Ages. Saint Benedict was born in Norcia around 480 AD and he spent much of his life in places that today constitute the main stages of the route. From Norcia, where he was born, to Montecassino, where he founded the abbey in which he spent his last years and where he died in 547 AD, the Camino retraces the salient moments of the saint’s life.
Walking in the footsteps of Saint Benedict means relive the thousand-year history of the territories he crossed, encountering the lives of other saints and historical figures who have left an indelible mark on these lands. Among these, Saint Rita of Cascia, Saint Francis of Assisi and Saint Thomas Aquinas, figures who enriched Umbria and Lazio with spirituality and culture, making these places destinations of pilgrimage and reflection.
The route and its hidden treasures
The starting point of the Camino is Norciaan Umbrian town known both for being the birthplace of San Benedetto and for its rich historical and artistic heritage. Despite the damage suffered by the 2016 earthquake, Norcia retains a particular charm, with the Basilica of San Benedetto and the Cathedral of Santa Maria Argentea representing two of the main symbols of the city. For those who love nature, a visit to Castelluccio di Norcia is unmissable, especially during the flowering period, when the Pian Grande is colored with bright shades, offering a unique spectacle in the world.
Continuing along the path, you enter the Apennines, among mountains rich in woods and medieval villages such as Casciafamous for the Monastery and Sanctuary dedicated to Santa Rita. The wild and uncontaminated nature accompanies pilgrims along the entire route, which winds through the valleys and mountains of Umbria and Lazio, where it will be possible to observe splendid panoramas and experience a profound sense of peace and contemplation.
The medieval villages and uncontaminated nature
After Cascia, the Camino crosses Monteleone di Spoletolocated in a panoramic position over the Corno Valley, e Lionessan enchanting medieval village at the foot of the Reatini Mountains, famous for events such as the Velvet Palio and the Potato Festival. The journey continues towards Poggio Bustonewhich preserves traces of the passage of Saint Francis of Assisi, and Rieti, a city rich in history, with numerous medieval and baroque churches which testify to its historical importance.
The route also touches Rocca Sinibalda and Castel di Toratwo villages overlooking Lake Turano, where we will find views not to be underestimated and a postcard landscape. Entering the Sabine Mountains and the Lucretili Mountains, the Camino passes through small villages such as Pozzaglia Sabina, Orvinio And Licenseeach with its own peculiarities and ancient charm. Licenza, in particular, is famous for the villa of Maecenas, built for the poet Horace, whose remains are still visible.
From Mandelayou can reach the Convent of San Cosimato in Vicovaro, a place of great spirituality, and the Benedictine caves, which represent an important stop for those interested in monastic life and the religious history of these places.
Subiaco: the spiritual heart of the Camino
Halfway through the route, the pilgrims reach Subiacoin the Aniene Valley, a place of great importance for the life of San Benedetto. Here, the saint lived for three years in a cave, known as the Sacro Speco, where he experienced the hermit life. This place is today one of the most visited pilgrimage destinations, not only for its natural beauty but also for its profound spirituality. Subiaco is also home to the Abbey of Santa Scolastica, the oldest of the Benedictine monasteries, which houses a library famous for having printed the first book in Italy.
The journey continues along the Aniene Valley, crossing historic villages such as Trevi in Lazioan ancient center that dominates the valley from the Simbruini Mountains, e Collepardolocated in the Ernici Mountains. Collepardo is known for the Certosa di Trisulti, founded in 1204, and for the Pozzo d’Antullo, a deep chasm of karst origin, unique in its kind.
Towards the destination: Montecassino and the Benedictine abbey
The Camino di San Benedetto culminates with the arrival at Monte Cassinowhere the abbey that San Benedetto founded in 529 AD stands. The place is not alone the symbol of the journeybut it also represents one of the most important spiritual centers in Europe. Montecassino was destroyed several times throughout history, but each time it was rebuilt, keeping the Benedictine tradition alive and continuing to be a beacon of faith and culture.
Before reaching Montecassino, pilgrims pass through other places of great historical and naturalistic interest. Among these, the Trisulti Charterhouse, a rare example of Cistercian Gothic, and the Casamari Abbey, a jewel of Italian religious architecture. Also not to be missed is a visit to the Abbey of San Domenico in the Liri Valley, founded by San Domenico di Sora on the ruins of Cicero’s birthplace, and to Arpino, a village that boasts an ancient history and lush nature.
How to organize the trip and tackle the Camino
The Camino di San Benedetto can be undertaken at any time of the year, although it is advisable to avoid the winter months due to the possible presence of snow in the higher stages. For those who decide to travel it on foot, the path is divided into 16 stageseach of which offers a mix of nature, culture and spirituality. For those who prefer cycling, the walk can be completed in 7 stages, with itineraries that vary in length and difficulty.
Along the route, there is no shortage of accommodation facilities, which they range from B&Bs to farmhouses, up to donation-based hospitalityoften managed by religious bodies or secular associations. The route is entirely tracked on GPS and the official website of the Cammino di San Benedetto offers all the information necessary to best organize the trip, including advice on what to bring, where to stay and which stages to choose based on your needs and abilities.
All the stages of the Camino di San Benedetto
The Camino di San Benedetto can be followed in 16 stages on foot or 7 stages by bike. Let’s see them together.
The 16 stages on foot
The 7 stages by bicycle
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