Via Lauretana

that passes through Siena

Walking in the footsteps of medieval pilgrims, the

The Via Lauretana in Tuscany is one of the most fascinating historical routes in central Italy. It connects Siena to Cortona along a path of about 114 kilometres. The route crosses some of the most evocative landscapes in the region. Moreover, it offers a journey through nature, culture and centuries of history.

The path winds through the Crete Senesi, known for their almost “lunar” scenery. It then continues toward the Val di Chiana, an area rich in nature and ancient traditions. Additionally, this territory preserves many traces of its rural and historical past.

The origins of the Via Lauretana are very ancient. In fact, the route dates back to the Etruscan period, when it served as an essential link between settlements across Etruria. During the Middle Ages, the path became an important road used by merchants, pilgrims and soldiers. As a result, it played a central role in the connections between Siena, Cortona and the rest of central Italy.

The Via Lauretana Toscana also has a strong spiritual meaning. The route follows an ancient Etruscan-Roman road that later became associated with the devotion to the Holy House of Mary. This tradition describes the Sacred House as travelling from the Holy Land to the Sanctuary of Loreto. For this reason, the path is today considered a deeply devotional itinerary. It is ideal for visitors wishing to combine nature, spirituality and history in one experience.

Today the Via Lauretana is appreciated by experienced hikers and by those approaching slow travel for the first time. The variety of landscapes creates a route that is both accessible and inspiring. Furthermore, the presence of villages, parish churches, gravel roads and panoramic viewpoints reveals the authentic identity of Tuscany.

Walking the Via Lauretana means entering a territory full of charm and cultural depth. Each stage offers a new story and a new view. Therefore, the route invites travellers to slow down and discover Tuscany step by step, through places where time seems to move at a different rhythm.