Via Romano-Lauretana to Camerino: Route, Difficulty and Map

The Route of the Via Romano-Lauretana

Starting from Rome, the Via Romano-Lauretana initially coincided with the Via Flaminia as far as Foligno. From there began the Lauretana proper, which headed toward the Umbria-Marche Apennines and crossed them at the Passo di Colfiorito. It then continued, through various stages including Muccia and Camerino, toward Tolentino, Recanati and Loreto.

The section around Camerino starts from Serravalle di Chienti, where part of the route leaves the Chienti valley and climbs into the mountains. Behind it lie the fortifications that once controlled the obligatory passage of shepherds and pilgrims. The route then enters lush vegetation, with panoramic views. After Gelagna it continues on back roads, among hills and cultivated fields. It crosses Arnano and Morro and reaches Camerino.

Historically the road passed the Castello di Serravalle, climbed the "valle Serrata" to the Ospizio dei Pellegrini (pilgrims' hospice) and, beyond the towers of Bavareto, rose to Gelagna Alta. From Camerino the hiking route continues toward San Severino Marche and Treia.

Via Romano-Lauretana Technical Data

The Via Romano-Lauretana is not a loop. Its total length is about 46 km, and the route lies mostly outside the Sibillini Mountains area. For this reason it is walked in stages. Those who prefer a hike that returns to the starting point can browse the loop hikes in the Sibillini.

For the 13 km section from Serravalle di Chienti to Camerino, the elevation figures are 632 m of ascent and 588 m of descent. The difficulty is hiking grade (E): the route is suitable for all skill levels but requires a good aptitude for walking. As with any outing in the mountains, it is advisable to check the weather before setting out.

Via Romano-Lauretana Map

The map shows the route in the Camerino area. The Serravalle di Chienti – Treia itinerary has waymarking and maps and can be walked independently. Those who want to combine several routes can see the page on multi-day hikes in the Sibillini.

Points of Interest Along the Via Romano-Lauretana

In Serravalle di Chienti stands the Basilica di Santa Maria di Plestia, also called di Pistia, built in 1100 on the ruins of the ancient Roman town of Plestia. The plateau on which it stands was a crucial point for those crossing the Apennines, linked to transhumance and pilgrimage.

In Camerino the historic entrance gate is the old Porta San Giacomo, now Porta Malatesta. From the 14th to the 17th century many pilgrims bound for Loreto passed through it. Nearby, the convent of San Pietro di Muralto is built into the city walls. Camerino was the capital of the old duchy of the da Varano family. Its buildings include the Ducal Palace, the cathedral of the Santissima Annunziata, the Archbishop's Palace and the Basilica of San Venanzio. In piazza Santa Maria in Via, the sanctuary holds an icon of the Madonna and Child from 1350.

The historic center of Camerino bears the marks of the earthquake. Before planning a visit to churches and palaces, it is advisable to check that they are accessible.