Places
Hike·Easy·Relaxing·Popular

Passo della Cisa, Via Francigena

Emilia-Romagna

The Passo della Cisa (1,039 m) on the Emilia-Tuscany border has been the main Apennine crossing for pilgrims on the Via Francigena (Canterbury to Rome) since Archbishop Sigeric crossed it in 990 AD. A medieval church at the summit was the first shelter pilgrims reached after the long northern approach. The pass is still walked by modern pilgrims; in autumn the Apennine chestnut forest around it turns gold.

Duration
3 hours
Distance
8 km
Elevation
+300 m
Best season
April – October

Highlights

  • Archbishop Sigeric's Via Francigena crossing documented in 990 AD
  • Medieval summit church — first pilgrim shelter after the Apennines
  • Autumn chestnut gold on the approach from the north

With your dog

Ancient path; dogs welcome.