Day 69 IT Sutri to Campagnano di Roma

Sutri to Campagnano di Roma

Last night, we had a great meal at a local restaurant with wine, wild boar spaghetti (I won’t forget the boars!), and a delicious dessert. Afterward, we took a stroll to the outskirts of town to explore some of the ancient ruins. It was a truly memorable way to end the evening.

I had a bit of a late start this morning, setting off at 7:30, a full hour and a half later than my usual departure time. With a relatively short day of 15 miles ahead to the next stop and only a couple more days until Rome, the plan was to take it easy, enjoy the scenery, and see what the day had in store.

It’s interesting how, as you get closer to the end of a long journey, your mind starts to drift back to the beginning, to all the things you’ve experienced. It can be a challenge to stay focused on the here and now!

At about 10 o’clock, I stopped in Monterosi for a well-deserved coffee. It’s a small town in the province of Viterbo, has a history that stretches back to ancient times. Originally inhabited by the Falisci people, it later became a Roman rest station known as Rossolum. While I only stopped for a coffee, it was fascinating to imagine the countless pilgrims and travelers who had passed through this very town over the centuries.

The walk from Sutri to Campagnano di Roma is a beautiful journey through the Italian countryside. The path winds through groves of almond and hazelnut trees, past immaculate golf courses, and alongside gurgling streams. One of the highlights of this section is the pretty waterfalls of Monte Gelato, accompanied by the ruins of an old mill. As you get closer to Campagnano di Roma, the town comes into view, perched on a hill, requiring another lung busting final steep climb! LOL

Campagnano di Roma, located about 40 kilometers northwest of Rome, has a rich and layered history. The area was originally of Etruscan origin, situated near the ancient city of Veii. Over the centuries, it was controlled by various powerful families, including the Annibaldi and the Chigi, who undertook significant urban renewal projects. Today, the historic center preserves many medieval and 17th-century elements, including the Porta Romana, medieval towers, and several historic churches.

Being so close to the end of this journey brings a mix of emotions. There’s a sense of excitement and anticipation, but also a touch of sadness that the it is almost over!

Tonight I got news Gertrude fell and broke her leg…that is so sad she is 20 miles behind me!!!

I have 26.5 miles (44KM) to Rome.