Spungata along the Via Francigena

Spungata, the gourmet treat of the Via Francigena

The so-called Via Francigena was a network of tracks composing the quintessential devotional and mercantile itinerary from Northern Europe (the km 0 stone stands by the porch of the Canterbury Cathedral) to Rome, the centre of Christianity, as well as to the Holy Land.

The route also traversed Lunigiana in the easternmost tip of Liguria (ancient Sce Stephane, Burgus Mariae and Luna, that is Santo Stefano Magra, Sarzana e Luni). There, the town of Sarzana, located at the crossroads between the Padan Plain and Tuscany, still treasures spongata/spungata (named after its spongy surface) - a hearty, long lasting cake that most likely fed wayfarers and pilgrims on their way to Rome. Needless to say, the challenge to excellence amidst local pasticcerie is an ongoing contest…

A few months ago, historical research carried out by food and wine expert Umberto Curti led to the design of a tourism offer (“The sweet mystery of the Via Francigena”), and intriguing mix of cultural explorations, gourmet experiences and a cooking lesson delivered by a pastry chef in a splendid agriturismo.

Click here for more information and bookings: “The sweet mystery of the Via Francigena”

Luisa