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Testimonium

To receive a Testimonium, pilgrims must have walked the last 140kms starting preferably from Acquapendente  and passing through Bolsena, Montefiascone, Viterbo,Vertralla, Sutri, La Storta to Rome.  Those who cycle should have covered at  least 400kms eg starting at Lucca.  There are two places where the Testimonium can be obtained.

 

1)  At the Palazzo della Canonica, Vatican City by presenting your stamped credential.  It is available only to single or small groups of pilgrims.  To reach the Palazzo, enter Vatican City through the gate called "Ingresso del Petriano" in the "Piazza del Sant'Uffizio" and ask to be guided to the Palazzo della Canonica for the Testimonium. Opening hours: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday, 9.30 - 12.30 am.  Info: Sig. Patrizio Menna Valerio tel.0669883731.

 

2)  At the Opera Romana Pellegrinaggi, Pio XII Square n° 9, just outside St. Peter's Square again by presenting you stamped credential.  Opening hours: Monday through Friday 9 am - 6 pm, Saturday / Sunday 9 am - 4 pm.  Info: tel. 0669896384.  Single or small groups of pilgrims may obtain this certificate from the office in Pio XII Square however large groups must obtain it from Opera Romana Pellegrinaggi office in the Church of S. Giovanni dei Fiorentini in Via Giulia and not any more from their Offices in St. Peter's Square.

 

If you are unable to obtain the Testimonium before you leave Rome (eg pre-booked travel) you may request it by post. Send your request to Fabbrica di San Pietro, 00120 Città del Vaticano and enclosing:

1) photocopy of Identity card or passport

2) photocopy of Credential with all stamps

3) your full address

4) date of birth

5) starting place of your pilgrimage

6) starting date and arrival date

7) did you walk or cycle

8) your motivation: faith?, culture? something else?

9) what organisations assisted you before or during your pilgrimage (such as CPR or AIVF)

 

See also What is the Testimonium? On the FAQ page

 

Time

The average walking pilgrim takes about 80 to 90 days from Canterbury to Rome (approximately 1200 miles or 2000Kms) and given the lack of refugios it will cost more.  It is possible to walk from Canterbury in under 65 days but it would not be much fun and you would need to be a strong walker.  From the Grand St. Bernard to Rome is about 40 days.  Cyclists will take about 30 days which helps cut the costs and as much walking outside Switzerland is still on roads does not alter the route too much.

 

Towels

Ordinary towels are bulky and heavy.  The best type of towel to get are those made out of microfibre and obtainable from many camping/outdoor stores.  They are light and dry in no time.

 

Travel Insurance

see entry Insurance – Travel under 'I'