The pilgrim route from Canterbury to Rome, the Via Francigena, passes through Tuscany. These trail markers show the way; some are painted on the sides of buildings in towns.

This route was famously documented by Sigeric the Serious, the Archbishop of Canterbury, in the 10th century, who recorded his journey to receive his pallium from the Pope in Rome. There are many remnants from those pilgrim days. Here is an ancient rest stop that offered water to walkers and horses.

Today the Via Francigena is popular among pilgrims and casual hikers. The trails are well-marked, and many modern amenities have been developed to encourage travelers.

I was able to walk this section of the path from Quartaia to Monsanello which passes through a pastoral landscape. Factory is a small semi-abandoned village located right along the Via Francigena.