Via Francigena: Pontarlier - Jougne
Pilgrim trail - Franche Comté

Tour description

Todays itinerary since ancient times (Celts, Romans)already belonged to the most important traffic routes in this area. Until the 14th century, it represented the only Jura-Crossing (1008 m.o.s.) hikeable at all seasons. The Jura mountain range between Basel and Geneva forms the watershed between the Rhine (North Sea) and the Rhône (Mediterranean Sea). On Charlemagne’s road map (9th century), this connection between Pontarlier across the Jougne pass to Italy is mentionned as the shortes connection, and it still is.

Note(s)

The «Via Francigena» is one of the 3 main christian pilgrimage trails of the Middle Ages, the main axis leading from Canterbury to Rome. This documentation currently covers the stretch from Pontarlier close to the F/CH border across Lausanne to Rome.

Further stages

Following stage: Via Francigena: Jougne - Orbe