Abbey Mt. Oliveto Maggiori is a Benedictine monastery with a long, long history. As I mentioned in the previous post, the cloister walls depict scenes from the life of St.… Read more

I arrive at Abbey Mt. Olivetti Maggori. Six miles from Asciano. A Benedictine monastery founded by Sienese nobleman turned monk Bernardo Tolomei in 1319. I am here to rest and… Read more

I need water as I walk. My skin, muscles, heart, and my plumbing system simply will not work without water. Isn’t our body composed of 60% water? At home, I… Read more

Besides the Siena Duomo, I simply love visiting sites, wandering around the streets, eating delicious Tuscany food, watching a snare drum and flag waving procession of one of the Contrade’s… Read more

After the accumulated effects of walking, my body wants a rest. Siena is my designated rest space. In my opinion, I find Siena to be captivating. I still can picture… Read more

She is in her early 50’s. She may be 5 feet tall; she may weigh 100 pounds. She declares “My pack weighs 5.8 kilograms; I can’t carry anymore.” There is… Read more

During the first week of my walking the Via Francigena, two older women sensibly took trains to avoid the cold rain. Yet, they felt apologetic. They felt shame, not for… Read more

A refreshing, low-key rest day in Lucca. The desire for such a day is strong. Managing each day, finding the trail, staying on the trail, wondering if I’ll be able… Read more

The nights lodging at Berceto is refreshing. When I have these feet resting level with the brain, whether it is ten minutes or ten hours, I feel better. The rest… Read more

It’s my turn. I get to describe the two days walking to and over the Apennines. I want to let you know what it is like being feet and carrying… Read more