The Credential and the Testimonium on the Via Francigena

The Credential

The Credential is the "pilgrim's passport" and represents the indispensable companion for those who decide to undertake the Via Francigena. It is a personal document that is stamped along the route and certifies the passage on foot along the Via Francigena. These stamps, obtained at churches, hostels, tourist offices, and other distribution points, transform the journey into a tangible experience, allowing the pilgrim to relive the most significant moments of the journey. In addition to its symbolic value, the credential has a fundamental practical function; in fact, it is necessary for access to accommodation facilities dedicated to pilgrims, special discounts at restaurants, bars, and even transport. Furthermore, it is indispensable for obtaining the Testimonium, a certificate issued in Rome to those who complete at least the last 100 kilometers of the route. The credential can be collected at numerous distribution points located along the Via Francigena, both abroad and in Italy.

The Testimonium

The Testimonium is a certificate issued to pilgrims who complete the Via Francigena, particularly those who travel at least the last 100 kilometers on foot (or at least 200 kilometers by bicycle) before arriving in Rome. It is similar to the Compostela given to pilgrims on the Camino de Santiago. This document represents a formal recognition of the pilgrimage, issued by the Vatican to attest to the spiritual or personal value of the journey undertaken.

To receive the Testimonium in Rome, it is necessary to follow these steps:

• Complete the required distance: Travel at least 100 kilometers on foot or 200 kilometers by bicycle before arriving in Rome.
• Stamp the credential: It is necessary to stamp the Credential at churches, hostels, and other official points along the route. These stamps serve to certify the journey.
• Arrive in Rome: Once in Rome on foot, pilgrims end their journey at St. Peter's Basilica in the Vatican, where the tomb in which the Apostle Peter was buried is located.
• Go to the Pilgrim Office: To receive the Testimonium, it is necessary to present your credential with the required stamps. To collect the testimonium, simply go to the Welcome point at St. Peter's Basilica and show the credential to the staff on duty. The office is open from 7:30 AM to 6:30 PM every day.

Credential Distribution Points

Italy

Valle d'Aosta

Piemonte

Lombardia

Emilia-Romagna

Liguria

Tuscany

Lazio

Puglia

England

France

Switzerland

Belgium

USA/Canada