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Why Use Pilgrim's Credentials?
Pilgrim’s Credentials are an essential part of your Via di Francesco experience. These booklets serve as a record of your journey, providing space for collecting stamps from churches, museums, shops, restaurants, and accommodations along the way.
Your Credentials not only authenticate your pilgrimage but also support access to special discounts and offers throughout our pilgrim hospitality network. See more about Pilgrim’s Discounts along the Tuscan stages.
Upon completion of your pilgrimage, you can present your stamp-filled Credentials in Assisi to receive a Testimonium, a certificate acknowledging your journey to the tomb of St. Francis. See our guide to receiving your Testimonium. LINK
This beautiful memento serves as a constant reminder of your spiritual growth and the values discovered along the way.
How to Obtain Your Credentials
Official Credentials are issued by the PiccolAccoglienza of the Diocese of Gubbio.
To request your Credentials, complete an online request form from PiccolAccoglienza
Credentials Request Recommendations
All requests are handled by volunteers and shipped via post. You should request in advance to make sure the credentials arrive before your journey starts.
Inside Italy: Request 3 weeks prior to starting
Outside Italy: Request 6-8 weeks prior to leaving for pilgrimage
Cost of Credentials
Credentials are supplied free of charge by PiccolAccoglienza. We recommend offering a donation to support their efforts and cover the shipping costs of your requests.
Picking Up Credentials in Person in Florence
In exceptional cases, St. James Church in Florence may serve as a pickup point for pilgrim passports (Credentials).
To collect your Credentials:
- Visit the parish office during business hours (Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday from 9:00 to 13:00) or on Sundays before or after the 11:00 service.
- The parish office is located downstairs in the undercroft, opposite the front of the church.
- For questions, contact Father Richard Easterling or call +39.055.294.417 during business hours (English, Italian, Spanish, and Portuguese spoken).
St James Church in Florence
Via Bernardo Rucellai, 9,
50123 Firenze FI, Italy
https://stjames.it/activities-outreach/
Google Maps
The Sanctuary of La Verna does NOT provide any copies of the official credentials.
For urgent requests, contact the Credential Office (Diocese of Gubbio) at infoline 366.1118386 or email piccolaccoglienzagubbio@gmail.com.
Alternative Credentials: Print Your Own
If you cannot receive the official Credentials in time for your pilgrimage, we offer a printable alternative to ensure you don’t miss out on this essential aspect of your journey.
Enter your email and we’ll send you a printable, alternative credentials you can use.
Request for Printable Credential
Get Printable Credentials as a part of the Pilgrim Essentials Kit.
Enter your email to receive the free kit, including Printable Credentials, Walking Guide, Quick Start email series, and more.
Using and Caring for Your Pilgrim Credential
The Pilgrim Credential, also known as the pilgrim passport, is an essential document for those walking the pilgrimage route. It serves as a record of your journey, grants you access to certain accommodations, and is required to obtain the Testimonium upon completing the pilgrimage. Here’s a guide on how to use your Credential, collect stamps, and properly care for this important document.
Collecting Stamps (also known as “Timbri”)
Throughout your pilgrimage in Italy, you’ll find that nearly every establishment, including churches, accommodations, cafes, and other places, has its own unique stamp or “timbro.” To collect stamps and fill your Credential:
- Ask for a stamp: When you visit a church, stay at an accommodation, or stop by a cafe, simply ask the staff for their timbro or stamp. You can say, “Posso avere un timbro per il mio Credential, per favore?” which translates to “Can I have a stamp for my Credential, please?”
- Date and signature: Many pilgrims also request the person providing the stamp to write the date and sign their name alongside the stamp. This adds a personal touch to your Credential and helps you remember when and where you received each stamp.
Caring for Your Credential
Your Credential is an essential document that must be well-protected throughout your journey. Follow these tips to ensure your Credential stays in good condition:
- Waterproof protection: Carry your Credential in a waterproof bag or cover to protect it from water damage, especially during rainy days or when crossing streams.
- Safe storage: Always store your Credential in a secure and easily accessible place, such as a dedicated pocket in your backpack or a pouch that you can quickly access when needed.
By following these guidelines, you’ll create a unique and cherished record of your pilgrimage, while ensuring your Credential remains in good condition for the entire journey.
Popular Stamps for the Tuscan Stages
On your Via di Francesco pilgrimage, collecting unique stamps from various locations is an essential aspect of your journey.
These stamps, or “timbri,” not only authenticate your pilgrimage but also serve as cherished memories of the places you’ve visited. Here are some popular and must-get stamps for the Tuscan stages:
- Santa Croce in Florence: As the largest Franciscan church and the starting point of the official Via di Francesco, Santa Croce is a must-visit location for pilgrims. Be aware that the church doesn’t open until after 9:30 am, so consider getting your stamp the day before. Upon receiving your stamp, you’ll be granted entrance to Santa Croce to see special rooms reserved for pilgrims of St. Francis and to pray for your journey.
- Camaldoli Monastery: This historic monastery, nestled in the beautiful Tuscan countryside, is another significant stop along the Via di Francesco. Don’t forget to collect your stamp when you visit this serene and spiritual location.
- La Verna Monastery: Marking the official end of the Tuscan stages, La Verna Monastery is a crucial stop for pilgrims. You can obtain your stamp at the pilgrim office when you sign in to stay overnight. The monastery’s bookshop also offers a unique stamp for your Credentials.
By collecting these popular and must-get stamps, you will enrich your Via di Francesco experience, creating a tangible record of your spiritual journey through the breathtaking Tuscan landscape.
