The Rhenish Via Francigena: views and impressions

A magical October is bringing new colours and atmosphere to the whole park, but amongst the many events on the programme, there is one extraordinary event set to capture the attention of every visitor. Against the splendid backdrop of the The Romantic Tower in the Old Garden a Villa Carlotta, a unique photographic exhibition comes to life, celebrating the charm of the ancient medieval route through the artist’s photographs Maurizio Moro.

La Via Francigena Renana It represents a historical, cultural and spiritual journey of extraordinary value. A journey that begins at the Switzerland, crosses the majestic Spluga Pass, it passes through the town of Como and continues towards Milan, until you reach the ford on the River Po at Corte Sant’Andrea in the Lodi area, where it joins the famous The “classic” Via Francigena”. This route roughly follows the major waterways and the basin of the Lake Como, routes that for centuries have linked peoples, trade and pilgrims.

Rediscovered and promoted by the association Iubilantes and included in 2023 in the Ministry of Tourism’s Catalogue of Italian Religious Pilgrimage Routes, this historic route is now being reinterpreted in a modern and sustainable way. The exhibition, enhanced by a’ audio narration which is also accessible to visitors with visual impairments, skilfully weaves together faith, art, history and nature. On the days of Saturday 24 October and Sunday 1 November, the expert Julian Coleman will be on hand to guide visitors through the exhibition, including in English.