On the way to San Miniato, Italy ... Via Francigena

[Thomas Yingst]

On the way to San Miniato, Italy ... Via Francigena
Nice sunny day. I took a train, early this morning, to Altopascio. The path from Lucca to Altopascio is through urban industrial areas. So, I thought I’d pass on that part. The 29 K from Altopascio to San Miniato was quite nice.

I have a picture of the tower in Altopascio. Towers are, apparently, a big thing around here.

I also have a picture of the stairs leading up to Ponte a Cappiano and the tower in that town.

Made it to San Miniato. Of course there is tower there, as well.

 

[J.Patrick]

Do you speak Italian, Thomas? I speak some Spanish, but no Italian and am wondering what kind of difficulties to prepare for when I do the Francigena later this year.

 

[Thomas Yingst]

As far as getting directions, ordering food etc. I’ve had no problems based on my very limited Italian language skills

 

[High Endeavours]

There is an excellent variant for that route now. You no longer have to walk the industrial route. On my way from Canterbury last fall I walked it. Much of it is marked with the red and white GR signs. The first 3 kms follow s an aqueduct straight south from Lucca.