The Centre for Heritage is pleased to offer two bursaries for University of Kent postgraduate students to participate in a historic long distance walk of 87 miles on the Via Francigena from Rome to the ancient Roman port town of Terracina on 14-21 May 2017.

The bursaries are offered as part of the Canterbury and the Via Francigena: Promoting Heritage through Cultural Routes project with funding from the Kent Opportunity fund.

The Via Francigena is a historic route linking Canterbury to Rome, continuing onto the southern port of Brindisi in Italy. Julia Peters, a PhD student in Classical & Archaeological Studies, walked the Via Francigena from Canterbury to Rome in 2015 and will now lead students on the section from Rome to Terracina.

Walking an ancient route is an immersive experience in history. The route covers sections on ancient basalt paving stones, winds through ancient and medieval towns, offers views of mountains, crater lakes and the sea. This rich archaeological and natural heritage has a collective value that is revealed by retracing the historic route that once connected them. Taking 6 days to walk 87 miles (140 km) offers a glimpse into the experience of travel in the past, from Roman soldiers to medieval pilgrims, as well as the present day. Participants should be prepared for difficulties, but the potential rewards far exceed the challenges to be faced.

The bursary includes a return flight from the UK to Rome, accommodation for 8 nights (in hostels, monasteries and hotels) and subsistence of £20/day for 8 days.

The closing date for applications is 23.00 on Monday 6 March 2017.

Further details of the route and how to apply are available here.