In this paper, we intend to analyse one of the odeporic works from the corpus of Ennodius of Pavia (Ennod. 245 V. = carm. 1.1 H.) through the combined interaction of interpretative perspectives and visualisation tools. The journey towards the Cottian Alps described by Ennodius is a diplomatic mission, entrusted by Lawrence, bishop of Milan: this information establishes the existence of two levels of interpretation from the outset, the circumstantial one and the metaphorical one. There is probably a further level of analysis, which has never been given a wide appeal in the still excellent previous studies: the path at issue, already known to the Romans of all times for its impervious conformation and the unpredictability of its climate, is loaded with ritual energy.