The ‘Via degli Dei’ (Path of Gods) is a hiking path that connects the cities of Bologna and Florence across theTuscan-Emilian Apennines. Even though it was traced recently, its origins are ancient. The Etruscans were the first to develop their trade along a route connecting Felsina and Fiesole; then the Romans built a real transappenine road known as Flaminia Militare (Flaminian military way). The route was also used in the Middle Ages, though the Roman road was abandoned in favour of a simple path.
Between the 1980s and 1990s, these ancient trails were rediscovered and some of the paving blocks of the Roman road were brought to light. Track is named after some of the places it passes by: Monte Adone, Monzuno (Mons Iovis, Mount of Jupiter), Monte Venere, Monte Luario (Lua was the Roman goddess of atonement).
The route, now a CAI path, starts in Bologna and passes through San Luca with its archways, extending towards Casalecchio di Reno and proceeding along the river until it reaches Sasso Marconi. From there, you can go towards Monzuno and Madonna dei Fornelli to take the Flaminia Militare. Once in Passo della Futa , you are already in Tuscany and can continue towards San Piero a Sieve and Fiesole to finally reach Florence.
Places filled with history, marvellous natural unspoilt scenery and areas of incredible culture producing prestigious food and wine products can be found along the way.
The ‘Via degli Dei’ is one of the main tourist attractions in the Apennines. Thanks to its versatility, it is in fact perfect for hiking and mountain biking lovers who can create their own personalised route. The whole trail between Bologna and Florence is rather easy and can be covered in four/six days or more on foot or in two/three days or more by bike. For those with more time available, there are interesting detours along the way to visit evocative places such as Rocchetta Mattei or the Suviana and Brasimone lakes.
Recently, the Path of Gods Italy project has invited international travel bloggers to hike along this enchanting itinerary. Check out their itinerary and find out more about the Via degli Dei.
For further information: Via degli Dei official website