East of Piacenza (Italy) on the SS9 (as the Via Francigena)

East of Piacenza on the SS9 (as the Via Francigena) | Photo by Mike Hudak

24 Sep 2016: 12:10. A pilgrim’s view of walking on the SS9 (as the Via Francigena) approximately 2.4 km (1.5 miles) east of Piacenza. In northern Italy when the Via Francigena is not traversing agricultural fields, highways are often incorporated into its route. Loneliness from the absence of fellow pilgrims is somewhat offset by the excitement of fast-approaching cars and trucks.