Journeys and Popular Wisdom: Four Proverbs for Four Adventures

Sicily – "Cu mancia fa muddichi." (He who eats makes crumbs.)

Magna Via Francigena (Palermo – Agrigento)

Every action we take leaves a mark. This Sicilian proverb reminds us that making mistakes is natural, and what matters is taking action, moving forward. Walking the Magna Via Francigena, from Palermo to Agrigento, is an authentic experience following in the footsteps of pilgrims, merchants, and travelers who have left their imprint on these lands for centuries. Here, among ancient villages, breathtaking landscapes, and the warm hospitality of the locals, every step is a breadcrumb of experience, every encounter a lasting memory.

Ireland – "May the road rise to meet you."

Walking in Ireland

This ancient Irish blessing expresses the wish for a favorable journey, with the wind at your back and the road adapting to your steps. Walking through Ireland is exactly that: feeling the path welcome you, letting yourself be guided by its vast landscapes and shifting colors, from the brilliant green of the cliffs to the misty skies steeped in legend. Every turn of the path brings new discoveries, every stop a warm smile or a story from a local. This journey is more than just a hike—it’s an invitation to embrace the magic of Ireland, knowing that the road will always lead you in the right direction.

Albania – "Mos e lë përruan për lumin." (Do not leave the stream for the river.)

Journey through Albania

This Albanian proverb teaches us to not overlook the small, valuable things in pursuit of something bigger, forgetting the worth of what we already have. Albania embodies this philosophy perfectly: often overlooked in favor of more famous destinations, it holds hidden treasures, breathtaking landscapes, and a deeply authentic culture still waiting to be explored. Traveling through its mountains, stone villages, and wild coastlines means rediscovering the beauty of a place that doesn’t need the spotlight to leave a lasting impression. Every path, every encounter along the way is proof that the most precious experiences often lie where we least expect them.

Puglia – "Chi va vulesse e chi stà si struje." (He who moves grows stronger, he who stays still withers.)

Via Materana (from Bari to Matera)

Travel is transformation: those who set out grow, discover, and enrich themselves, while those who stay still risk missing out, watching life pass them by. This Puglian saying is perfect for those venturing along the Via Materana, from Bari to Matera—a route that crosses rugged yet captivating landscapes, winding between dry stone walls, ancient olive groves, and whitewashed cities that rise from the earth like mirages. Walking here means leaving behind the rush of modern life to embrace a slower, more meaningful pace, full of genuine encounters and stories carved in stone. A journey that, like the proverb, teaches us that movement is life.