The Gods along this way are the mythologically-named mountains you meet on your path: they have been watching for millennia over the ancient Military Flaminia Roman Road, now one of our travellers' favorite trips.
It connects Bologna - beautiful and generous, with a rich gastronomic scene - to Florence; although the panoramic view on the cradle of Reinassance from the top of Fiesole looks like something straight out of a painting, it will not be the most surprising moment of your trip.
Expect Roman roads, military graveyards immersed in the woods, fossils of prehistoric shells in the mountain rock and mysterious legends; oasis filled with rare species of water plants, suspended bridges and Medicean castles.
The Via degli Dei connects two fountains - one in Bologna and the other in Florence, both dedicated to the same God.
Neptune, the God of the Sea, marks the beginning and the end of the route - the first God of the many the Cammino is dedicated to.
Mount Adone is a mountain located in the heart of the middle Bolognese Apennines, situated in the southeastern part of the municipal territory of Sasso Marconi. This area is characterized by typical vegetation of arid meadows, interspersed with rare species of Mediterranean trees such as holm oak and manna ash. The summit of Mount Adone, rising to 654.44 meters above sea level, is accessible from the charming village of Brento, a hamlet of the municipality of Monzuno located on its eastern slopes. Here, at the top, there are several natural and panoramic attractions, including the enchanting Grotte delle Fate (Fairy Caves), Grotticella, and Cunicolo Pozzo (Pit Tunnel). Additionally, Mount Adone is the source of various streams, with the most significant being Rio Favale, the main tributary of the Savena River.
In the area, there are numerous pagan reminiscences: various place names evoke deities of the Roman religion, and even the name of the village may derive from Mons Jovis, Mount of Jupiter, or from Mons Junonis, Mount of Juno. However, it is more likely that the name simply derives from the Latin "mons" [mountain], as is the case in other locations such as Monzone, Montione, etc., found throughout the national territory.
From the summit of Monte Venere, which rises 965 meters above sea level, on clear days, one can admire a splendid panorama stretching from the Dalmatian coast to Mont Blanc, encompassing almost the entire Alpine range. According to local tradition, atop this mountain, the ancient Romans erected a temple dedicated to their beautiful goddess, although there is no concrete evidence of this construction as thorough research has not been conducted. However, it is possible to visit a small Oratory dating back to the early 20th century, which was destroyed during World War II but subsequently rebuilt and recently restored. Along the path connecting Monte Venere to Pian di Balestra, one can encounter some settlements dating back to the Etruscan era, as evidenced by a bronze votive statuette discovered in the location known as "Le Croci."
The term "Lua" originates from the root of the Latin verb "luo," meaning "to dissolve," and according to some sources, also from the term "lues," which refers to "pestilence" and "syphilis," the ancient ailment still known as "lue."
The epithet "Lua Saturni" identifies her as the consort of the god Saturn, giving her the role of a primordial and ancient goddess. Lua is indeed referred to as Mater in the two passages of Titus Livius that mention her, thus recognized as the Mother of Men and Gods, the almighty deity.
Mount Luario (1,140 meters above sea level) is a mountain in the Apennines in Italy. Its prominence is 40 meters. In terms of elevation, Mount Luario ranks 44th out of 587 in the Metropolitan City of Florence.
The legend tells that there was a mountain, located about eight miles from Florence, which when struck by the wind, resonated with a sound coming from its caves.
Because of this echo, since ancient times, the mountain has been called Sonario or Sonaio, although people mainly know it as Mount Asinario, due to a linguistic corruption: initially, the letter "a" was added, and the "o" was transformed into "i".
This mountain was revealed by the gods as inspiration to our ancestors; it was here that they were guided to fulfill their desire and establish their dwelling.
From afar, they saw the mountain indicated to them by the gods: it rose above the surrounding mountains. They approached to examine it closely. At the top, they found a charming clearing, albeit small in size: on one side there was an excellent water source, surrounded by an extremely orderly forest, as if it had been planted by a divine hand. It was clear that this mountain had been prepared for them by the gods. It seemed perfectly suited to the ideal they wished to pursue, especially because it was far from dwellings and its peak offered the perfect environment for penance.
So, they climbed the mountain and built a modest cottage on its summit, which became their first dwelling. They thus abandoned their home in Florence to move here, soon becoming the poor and solitary abode of "hermits and friars."
The sacred hermitage of Monte Senario
How long is the Via degli Dei from Bologna to Florence?
The Via degli Dei spans about 130 km, typically divided into 5 or 6 stages. Each stage ranges from 20 to 25 km, weaving through diverse landscapes that include mountain trails, dirt roads, and some paved sections.
What is the difficulty level of the trail?
This trail is considered moderately difficult. It's suitable for hikers in good physical shape, as the route involves climbing and descending along the Apennine pathways. Previous long-distance hiking experience is recommended.
What type of accommodations are available along your package on Via degli Dei?
We provide comfortable stays in carefully selected bed and breakfasts and hotels, all featuring private bathrooms. These charming accommodations offer a genuine and restful experience after a day of trekking.
How is the Via degli Dei marked?
The Via degli Dei is well-marked with specific signs displaying a yellow and red logo. These markers are placed throughout the route, making navigation relatively easy for those traveling on their own.
What should one bring for a journey on the Via degli Dei?
We recommend comfortable, hiking-appropriate clothing, sturdy trekking shoes, a water bottle, a hat, and sunscreen for UV protection. Don't forget a first-aid kit, a flashlight, and a comfortable backpack to carry your personal items during the day.
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