The Way of the Franciscan Protomartyrs is a circular route divided into six stages that cross the landscapes of southern Umbria, passing through villages and places linked to the first Franciscan friars to be martyred.
The third stage connects Calvi dell’Umbria to Narni and is the longest of the entire route—about 26 km of walking.
Along the way, two easily accessible spots are well worth a visit: the village of Poggio di Otricoli and the Church and Hermitage of San Vittore.
To reach Poggio di Otricoli, you need to leave the main path after passing Poggiolo, about 5.5 km from Calvi. At the crossroads, instead of continuing along the Strada Calvese (Provincial Road 18) towards Villa Santa Maria, you cross the road and head toward Poggio.
Upon arriving in the village, you’ll reach an elevation of 387 metres, where you can stroll through the streets and visit the oldest part of the village: the Castle of Poggio di Otricoli, a medieval fortress set along the slopes of Mount San Pancrazio. From here, you can enjoy a magnificent view over the Tiber Valley and the upper Sabina, dominated by a striking 14th-century square tower.
This detour is a great opportunity to break up the journey and enjoy a refreshing pause.
To reach the second site of interest, the Church and Hermitage of San Vittore, you leave the path at the same crossroads after Poggiolo. Instead of continuing on the SP 18 to Villa Santa Maria, turn back toward Calvi dell’Umbria. After about 1 km, follow the signs and take a dirt path that leads to the small church.
Once a true hermitage, today only a small 14th-century church remains, nestled among centuries-old olive trees. Its silent, spiritual and authentic atmosphere offers a moment of reflection during the pilgrimage.
Each year, on the feast day of the saint, the community of Otricoli commemorates his martyrdom with a procession along the Tiber.
It is said that the church was built in the 6th century to house the body of the saint and other martyrs, following his miraculous appearance on the riverbank after returning from Syria.
These two sites make for a pleasant stop along the third and longest stage of the Way of the Franciscan Protomartyrs.
Discover the Way of the Franciscan Protomartyrs on Komoot:
