GR 145 - Follow

The Via Francigena

Follow the Via Francigena, “the route of the Franks” and walk in the footsteps of the medieval pilgrims who travelled to Rome, home of Christianity in the West. This great adventure will take you from Canterbury to Rome on a 2000 km journey.

The oldest itinerary

recorded by a pilgrim

In the year 987, Archbishop Sigeric of Canterbury travelled to Rome to receive his pallium, the symbol of his appointment, from Pope John XV. On his way back, he wrote a travel diary listing the 79 steps he had to take to complete his journey.

Thanks to this precious manuscript, the oldest itinerary recorded by a pilgrim, we have an accurate account of the Via Francigena.

Since 2004, the Via Francigena has been recognised as a Great Cultural Itinerary by the Council of Europe and is registered as the GR® 145. The entire route is marked out in white and red.

The Via Francigena

in Champagne

Like the GR 645, the Via Francigena allows you to reach Vitry-le-François from Reims via Châlons-en-Champagne in 5 or 6 days.

Day 1: Reims to Verzy – 20.5 km – 5 hours

Day 2: Verzy to Condé-sur-Marne – 25 km – 5 hours 30 mins

Day 3: Condé-sur-Marne to Châlons en Champagne – 18 km – 4 hours 30 mins

Day 4: Châlons-en-Champagne to St-Germain-la-Ville – 15 km – 3 hours 45 mins

Day 5: St-Germain-la-Ville to St-Amand-sur-Fion – 17 km – 4 hours 15 mins

Day 6: St-Amand-sur-Fion to Vitry-le-François – 16 km – 4 hours

It’s easy to find your way on this GR thanks to signs marked with red and white symbols.

Panneau Via Francigena

Recharge your batteries

After hours of walking, you’ll have certainly earned some rest and relaxation. Treat yourself to a delicious meal and enjoy a good night’s sleep before setting off again.