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The ancient cobblestones of Rome reveal a path less traveled – a sacred circuit connecting seven of Christianity's most significant churches. In this special episode, we strap on our hiking boots to tackle the Walk of the Seven Churches, a 25-kilometer pilgrimage that saints and ordinary faithful have followed for centuries.

What makes this urban adventure unique is that we're not exploring distant lands but rediscovering our home city through the eyes of pilgrims. During this Jubilee Year, the four papal basilicas – St. Peter's, St. Paul Outside the Walls, St. John Lateran, and St. Mary Major – have opened their Holy Doors, creating a rare opportunity to experience these sacred thresholds as generations of pilgrims have before us.

Our journey takes us from the Spanish Steps to the Vatican, then south along the Tiber to St. Paul's imposing basilica. We walk the ancient Appian Way, passing the spot where tradition says St. Peter met Jesus while fleeing persecution. With each church, we encounter remarkable treasures – from the tomb of St. Sebastian to fragments of the True Cross brought from Jerusalem by St. Helena, from the Pope's official cathedral to the basilica where Pope Francis has chosen to be buried.

Through neighborhoods both familiar and unexplored, we discover how this pilgrimage transforms ordinary city streets into a spiritual pathway. The contrast between sacred spaces and urban chaos – security lines, traffic noise, closed doors during afternoon hours – becomes part of the experience itself, challenging us to find meaning amid modern distractions.

By journey's end, with 35,000 steps behind us, we've gained more than sore feet and forgiven sins. We've experienced our home city as countless pilgrims have for centuries, finding new appreciation for Rome's sacred geography and the tradition of pilgrimage itself. Sometimes the greatest adventures begin right at your doorstep – you just need the right eyes to see them.

Join us for this special field recording that captures the sounds, challenges, and discoveries of walking Rome's most sacred circuit. Then consider what pilgrimages might be waiting in your own hometown. What sacred paths lie hidden beneath the familiar streets you travel every day?

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Music used in intro:
Adventure Beyond by Alexander Nakarada
Link: https://filmmusic.io/song/8690-adventure-beyond
License: https://filmmusic.io/standard-license

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Ever dreamt of embarking on an adventure, stepping off the beaten path, and exploring trails that lead you through history, culture, and unspoiled nature- all in the span of a few hours? Well, we, your hosts Anna and Edo, did just that. We took on Il Cammino dei Tre Villaggi - the Smallest Camino in Italy, a well-organized 20km loop brimming with breath-taking landscapes and hidden historical gems. Starting and ending in the quaint village of Villa San Giovanni in Tuscia, we navigated through ancient passageways, soaked in the view from medieval hilltop towns, and discovered ruins that whispered tales of a time long gone.

Now, imagine us trudging through wet, muddy terrain, taking unexpected detours, and even experiencing a heart-stopping encounter with a wild boar. We promise you'll feel the adrenaline rush as we talk about our hike along the stunning Biedano River, our exploration of ancient Etruscan tombs, and our walk amidst verdant vegetation that seemed to come alive with every step. This wasn't just a walk; it was an immersive, emotional journey that gave us a taste of a slow, enriching life, just a few kilometers from the hustle and bustle of Rome. Buckle up, it's going to be one exhilarating ride through the smallest Camino in Italy.

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Make sure to follow us on Instagram to check out all of our travel pics!

Music used in intro:
Adventure Beyond by Alexander Nakarada
Link: https://filmmusic.io/song/8690-adventure-beyond
License: https://filmmusic.io/standard-license

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We embarked on an incredible adventure as we set off to hike the Cammino dei Tre Villaggi, also known as the shortest Camino in Italy. This 20-kilometer journey took us through untouched forests, over small rivers, and past ancient ruins dating back over 2500 years. Follow along as we share our experiences navigating this well-organized trail, exploring captivating historical sites like the Palazzine tombs, and soaking in the medieval charm of Barbarano Romano.

Throughout our trek, we encountered a variety of challenges, from fording rivers to avoiding sticker bushes, all while marveling at the lush greenery and dramatic rock walls that surrounded us. We even had a heart-stopping encounter with a wild boar, which thankfully opted to run away from us. Join us as we recount our journey, discussing the 20 kilometers hiked and the 450 meters of elevation conquered, leaving you feeling inspired and eager to embark on your own adventures.

Listen in as we reminisce about our unforgettable hike through the Cammino più piccolo d'Italia, appreciating the beauty we encountered along the way. From the ancient Etruscan pathways and hilltop towns to the olive grove and medieval ruins, we'll share our newfound appreciation for Italy's stunning landscapes and rich history. So grab your hiking boots, and let's hit the trail together on this exhilarating adventure.

Support the show

Make sure to follow us on Instagram to check out all of our travel pics!

Music used in intro:
Adventure Beyond by Alexander Nakarada
Link: https://filmmusic.io/song/8690-adventure-beyond
License: https://filmmusic.io/standard-license