Romea Iulia Augusta

Walking through the Alps and into history: in the footsteps of the Cramars

The Friulian section of the Via Romea Iulia Augusta begins at Monte Croce Carnico Pass, a mountain crossing long used by merchants and pilgrims. The trail descends into Carnia’s valleys, where the forest air smells of resin, silence and memory.

On foot, you pass through dense woods, authentic villages like Cercivento and the Roman site of Zuglio (Iulium Carnicum), Cesclans, and finally Venzone, one of Italy’s most charming medieval towns. This was once the road of the Cramars, travelling merchants from the mountains who carried herbs, spices and knowledge across the Alps in wooden boxes.

Today, we walk these same paths by choice. Romea Strata signs and GPS tracks guide every step. This journey connects landscape and identity, where every turn holds a story and every step invites deep listening.