The Salt Walk

The Salt Walk

The Salt Walk

The Cammino del Sale (Salt Trail) is back, the pilgrimage organised by the Gruppo Culturale Civiltà Salinara together with the Circolo Culturale Clodovea di Savio and the Associazione Via Romea Germanica, which revives the ancient tradition of paying homage to the Pope of Cervia salt.

The tribute to the Pope of Salt of Cervia began when Cardinal Pietro Barbo (later Pope Paul II) became bishop of Cervia in 1444. The cardinal had decided to send the salt to Pope Eugene IV (his uncle) to thank him for his appointment as bishop of Cervia, then a rich diocese thanks to its salt production. The tradition was suspended in 1870, following the events of the breach of Porta Pia, which interrupted diplomatic relations between the Vatican and the then young Kingdom of Italy. In 2003, the ancient custom was revived, thanks in part to the interest of Monsignor Mario Marini, assistant secretary of the Pontifical Commission Ecclesia Dei, and the salt was delivered to the Vatican.

The route follows the Via Romea Germanica for 12 days of walking through the Apennines and 11 stages before reaching the Vatican and delivering the salt to Pope Leone XIV together with the mayor. 

It is possible to take part in the pilgrimage to Rome, which has also become a reason to visit the capital, with an organised trip that will allow you to see the Eternal City and witness the delivery of the salt.

Anyone wishing to participate in the first or second day (27-28 September), or even just some stages of the walk, subject to availability, can contact the organiser.