Assisi

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City of Angels

Perhaps more than in any other Italian city, in Assisi a mystical, otherworldly presence dominates. This would be easily explained by its role in the Catholic world, as the home to Italy's patron saint, St. Francis, along with one of the most glorious cathedrals in all of Europe. But thanks to Assisi's natural magnificence and stunning architecture, even non-Catholics can thoroughly appreciate the Franciscan devotion to loving the beauty of Mother Earth.

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Must Sees in Assisi

Basilica di San Francisco: Assisi's amazing cathedral famous for its medieval art and relics and tomb of St. Francis.
Piazza del Comune: Assisi's town center.
Tempio di Minerva: 1st-century Roman temple that has been converted into a baroque church.
Basilica di Santa Chiara: 13th-century basilica famous for housing the tomb and relics of St. Clare, founder of the Order of the Poor Clares.
Eremo dell Carceri: Franciscan place of reflection, and believe where St. Francis himself prayed and the site of his well-known blessing of the birds.
Torre: 13th-century Ghibelline tower.
Rocco Maggiore: Assisi 14th-century imposing fortress.

Map of Assisi

The story of St. Francis is an interesting one. Born into money, as an adolescent he was the hedonist of hedonists, in search of pleasure wherever it may have been. But one day as a young adult, St. Francis experienced something so profound that he started what is now perhaps the world's most celebrated monastic order - the Franciscans - who preach through the example of poverty and humility. Despite what may see ostensibly apparent, this creed is not entirely irrelevant to us, who are in search of the perfect vacation. St. Francis was actually known to lead a very pleasure-ridden life as a monk, immersing himself in what he believed was God's most compelling face, the beauty and wonder of nature in all of its manifestations. Assisi is a magnificent place, surrounded by rolling vine-covered hills and outfitted with striking medieval and Renaissance architecture. Thus, as it once inspired the beauteous philosophy of St. Francis, Assisi has offered pilgrims spiritual inspiration, both of the religious and non-religious varieties, for centuries. Assis, like few other places, allows its guests to see beauty's simpler side: the solemn ringing of a church bell, birds chirping, the odor inside a cathedral, or the way light filters through stained glass. Refocusing your mind to notice such things will enhance your appreciation of Assisi's other aspects, like the energy of its people and its excellent cuisine!

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Assisi Festivals

Calendimaggio: Spring festival with medieval parades and sporting events. Evenings are occupied by singing, dancing, and drinking in medieval costumes. Takes place the first Thursday after May 1 and last until that Sunday.