We’re happy for the trust placed in us by the European Association of Via Francigena Ways (AEVF) who’ve chosen API as distributors for the official Via Francigena credentials. What’s the benefit of the AEVF official credential?
The Credential, or “pilgrim’s passport,” is the official document that accompanies every traveler, whether on foot or by bicycle, along the Via Francigena, serving as proof of their journey. Along the way, pilgrims can collect stamps at tourist offices, parishes, accommodations, and dining establishments to confirm the stages they have completed.
The Credential is a document rich in intangible meaning and, together with the final testimonium, serves as evidence of the completed pilgrimage, as well as an unforgettable keepsake. Furthermore, it helps support the activities of the AEVF and the Friends of the Via Francigena Associations, while also offering exclusive benefits.
The benefits of the Credential
With the AEVF Credential, the pilgrim gains access to special benefits and dedicated services.
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Access to accommodation facilities | Discounted rates for hostels and affiliated accommodations participating in the VisitVieFrancigene network. |
| Discounts at restaurants and bars | Reduced prices at numerous establishments along the route, participating in the VisitVieFrancigene network. |
| Discounts on transportation | Up to 10% discount with Trenitalia, Trenord and FlixBus. |
How much it costs and how the funds are used
The Credential has a recommended price of €8 (here for sale at $9 plus $5 shipping and handling), with the proceeds helping to support the activities of AEVF and the Friends of the Via Francigena Associations, such as:
- Supporting the maintenance and updating of infrastructure and resources for pilgrims, including maps, a database of accommodation facilities, maintenance and updates of the free app (available for iPhone and Android), direct communication with local areas to report issues along the route, and management of alerts along the path.
- Promoting the Via Francigena as an international cultural itinerary, supporting efforts for its recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
- Organizing walks and initiatives related to the Via Francigena.
The €8 is allocated as follows: 70% goes to AEVF for the activities mentioned above, which also includes printing and shipping costs, while 30% is distributed to associations or distribution points to support their activities in aid of walkers.
How to use it along the way
The Credential consists of two sections.
The first is dedicated to the personal information of the pilgrim and their journey, which must be completed at the beginning of the trip. Once the destination is reached, the competent ecclesiastical office will apply the official stamp and the date of arrival.
Finally, remember to scan the QR code present inside the credential to allow us to analyze the flows of pilgrims and thus improve the services dedicated to them.
The second section is reserved for the stamps that certify the stages completed along the Via Francigena. Each stamp, applied with the corresponding date, can be issued by accommodation facilities, whether secular or religious, hostels, municipal offices, information points, as well as local associations, bars, or restaurants.
Finally, for those who walk the last 100 km or cycle the last 200 km, the credential allows you to obtain the Testimonium, the official certification of the pilgrimage.
Before departure, it is recommended to review the Pilgrim’s Ethical Code, and for those who have not yet chosen an itinerary, it is advisable to consult the official guides, which can provide useful information.
