As Italy struggles with the pressures of overtourism, a network of ancient paths revived by nuns now winds through overlooked landscapes where Benedictine monasticism once helped shape medieval Europe.
The Cammino della Santissima Trinità is a Christian pilgrimage route crossing the wooded regions of Lazio and Abruzzo, an area where Benedictine monasticism first took root in the 6th century. Comprising four interconnected walking trails, the route covers 18km and passes a series of historically significant yet largely untouristed Catholic sites.
According to the BBC, these places of worship have long been central to local spiritual life but remain absent from Italy’s main tourist circuits.
Although the paths themselves have existed for centuries, the santo cammino – or holy trail – was formally established only in September 2022, as Italy began emerging from strict pandemic restrictions. At a time when the country was preparing for the return of mass tourism to its cities and iconic religious landmarks, local nuns sought an alternative approach.
By mapping and promoting these trails, they aimed to offer younger travellers a more reflective, adventurous experience, encouraging them to avoid crowded destinations while rediscovering prayer, community and Italy’s lesser-known spiritual heritage.
The official starting point of the route is the Vallepietra Santissima Trinità, a sanctuary dramatically positioned 1,373 metres above sea level. However, its recommended beginning with the Cammino delle Abbazie, a moderately challenging 7km walk from Subiaco through the Monti Simbruini Regional Park to the hilltop of Monte Cassino, offering both natural beauty and historical depth.
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