Seven stages on horseback from San Marino to Assisi, crossing the Apennines in the footsteps of St Francis. The equestrian pilgrimage promoted by the Secretariat of State for Tourism and the Sammarinese Equestrian Federation (Federazione Ippica Sammarinese) as part of the celebrations for the 800th anniversary of the Saint’s death came to a close on 12 September in front of the Lower Basilica.
Five Sammarinese riders undertook the journey: Pierpaolo Donati, Claudia Bollini, Floriano Andreini, Marco Guidi and Paolo Berardi. Setting off on 6 September, they rode through Mercatello sul Metauro, Apecchio, Pietralunga, Gubbio and Valfabbrica before reaching Assisi.
Welcoming the delegation on behalf of San Marino were the Director of the Tourism Department, Filippo Francini, and Lorena Ruffilli. Also attending the ceremony were the Mayor of Assisi, Valter Stoppini, Tourism Councillor Fabrizio Leggio, Friar Marco, Guardian of the Franciscan Community, and Friar Giulio Cesareo, Director of the Communications Office of the Sacred Convent.
The riders’ arrival was marked by an exchange of official gifts, a moment of prayer at the Tomb of St Francis, and the registration of credentials at the Statio Peregrinorum. The friars of the Basilica were also presented with new Sammarinese stamps and coins dedicated to St Francis.
“The equestrian pilgrimage from San Marino to Assisi represents a tangible sign of unity and friendship between communities, as well as a universal message of peace, brotherhood and respect for creation,” said Secretary of State for Tourism Federico Pedini Amati, highlighting the value of slow, sustainable and spiritual tourism.
The initiative also strengthens the bond between San Marino and Assisi, already linked by a cooperation protocol dedicated to spiritual tourism and to promoting their shared historical and cultural ties.
