In autumn 2024, the HIKE project brought participants together to celebrate healthy habits and active lifestyles through walking events across three countries. While rooted in sports, the project has also served as a unique opportunity to connect with the past and honour Europe’s cultural heritage. Each of the three routes carries centuries of history—let’s take a moment to revisit the rich story of these remarkable trails: the Via Francigena in Italy, the Via Egnatia in Greece, and the Tolerance Way in Türkiye.
Tolerance Way – Türkiye
The Tolerance Way in Türkiye spans approximately 126 kilometers between Izmit (Nicomedia) and Iznik (Nicaea). This route is rooted in Roman history and was significantly marked by the Edict of Tolerance issued by Emperor Galerius in AD 311, which was a landmark decree allowing religious freedom and ending the persecution of Christians. Izmit, known as Nicomedia during the Roman era, served as a capital under Emperor Diocletian, playing a crucial role in the administration of the Eastern Roman Empire. The route also highlights the Byzantine period, with Iznik being the site of the First and Second Councils of Nicaea, pivotal in shaping early Christian doctrine. Throughout the Ottoman period, the path continued to be a significant cultural and commercial link.
Via Egnatia – Greece
Via Egnatia, constructed between 146 and 120 BC, was a major Roman road designed to connect the eastern and western parts of the Roman Empire. Beginning in Dyrrachium (modern Durrës, Albania) on the Adriatic coast, it extended eastward across the Balkan Peninsula, passing through the present-day territories of Albania, North Macedonia, Greece, and Türkiye, and culminating in Byzantium (modern Istanbul). This route was named after the Roman proconsul Gnaeus Egnatius, who initiated its construction, and played an important role during the Roman, Byzantine, and even the Ottoman period. By linking with Via Appia, which connected Rome to Brindisi, Via Egnatia effectively bridged the eastern and western parts of the empire, reinforcing firstly Rome’s and subsequently Constantinoupolis’s influence over the vast territories of the Roman/Byzantine Empire.
Via Francigena – Italy
The Via Francigena is a historic pilgrimage route that traces its origins back to the early Middle Ages. The most famous reference to this path comes from the 10th century, documented by Archbishop Sigeric of Canterbury, who travelled to Rome to receive his pallium from Pope John XV. Sigeric documented 80 stages of his return trip from Rome to Canterbury, detailing the cathedrals and mansions where he stopped to pray and rest. His diary has provided historians with a glimpse into the medieval pilgrimage experience, highlighting the key locations and the significance of the route during that era. The route begins at Canterbury Cathedral in England and traverses France, Switzerland, and Italy, ultimately reaching the holy city of Rome and extending to Santa Maria di Leuca.
Through hiking, discovering local heritage becomes a mix of healthy habits and leisurely exploration, enriching both body and mind. Step out to explore the nearby trails and uncover the stories they hold!


[Pictures: featured Image: Culture Routes Society – Trail of Us; on the left: Maria Kofou – www.instagram.com/travelstoriesfromyworld; on the right – AEVF]