Via Francigena - Today

It is not strictly correct to use the name via Francigena for the whole route used by archibishop Sigeric in the year 990.

This is because the name Francigena means "generated in France" in Latin; therefore only the Italian part of the route can correctly be called "Francigena".

Today those who make the pilgrimage to Rome on foot, horseback or bicycle still travel this route but in far fewer numbers than the Way of St. James.

There are fewer facilities for pilgrims than on the Way of St. James and pilgrims are forced to camp out or stay in more expensive accommodation such as hotels and pensions.

The Via Francigena was designated a cultural route by the Council of Europe in 1994.

In November 2005, Italian politician Romano Prodi announced he would revitalize the Via Francigena if elected Prime Minister in the 2006 election.