Birthplace of St. Francis, this Umbrian town is known for its 13th-century basilica and fortress. Narrow streets wind through medieval architecture.
Assisi, a town in Italy's Umbria region, sits on the slopes of Monte Subasio. This birthplace of St. Francis attracts visitors with its stone buildings, narrow streets, and views of the Umbrian countryside. You can explore the Basilica of St. Francis with its medieval frescoes, climb the Rocca Maggiore fortress, or admire the ancient Temple of Minerva in the town center.
The Basilica of St. Francis
The Basilica of St. Francis is Assisi's primary landmark and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Constructed shortly after St. Francis's death in 1226, the basilica includes two churches and a crypt containing the saint's tomb. In the Upper Church, you'll see soaring Gothic architecture and vivid frescoes by Giotto depicting scenes from St. Francis's life. The Lower Church, with its darker atmosphere, houses works by other artists such as Cimabue and Simone Martini.
Exploring Assisi's Medieval Core
As you walk through Assisi's streets, you'll come across numerous buildings and churches from the Middle Ages. The Piazza del Comune forms the center of the town, where you can observe the well-preserved Temple of Minerva, a 1st-century BC Roman temple later transformed into a church. Nearby, the Cathedral of San Rufino stands out with its Romanesque façade. For another aspect of Franciscan history, visit the Basilica of St. Clare, dedicated to St. Francis's follower who established the Order of Poor Ladies.
Rocca Maggiore and Town Views
For views of Assisi and the surrounding valley, head up to Rocca Maggiore. This medieval fortress, initially constructed in the 12th century and expanded over time, overlooks the town. You can explore its rooms and walk along the ramparts, getting a sense of life in medieval Assisi while taking in the vistas of the Umbrian landscape.
Monte Subasio and Natural Surroundings
Assisi is part of the Monte Subasio Regional Park, which provides opportunities for hiking and nature appreciation. One popular location is the Eremo delle Carceri, a secluded hermitage in the forest where St. Francis and his followers went for prayer and meditation. The walk there from Assisi takes you through olive groves and offers views of the countryside.
Assisi's Culinary Traditions
Umbrian cuisine uses simple, local ingredients. In Assisi, you can try dishes like strangozzi (a type of hand-rolled pasta) with black truffles, or porchetta (roasted pork). The town is known for its Baci di Assisi, almond-flavored cookies that make for a good treat or souvenir. Many restaurants in the historic center serve traditional Umbrian food, often with views of the surrounding hills.
Getting to and Around Assisi
You can reach Assisi by train, with regular connections from major Italian cities to the nearby station of Santa Maria degli Angeli. From there, buses run to the historic center. If you're driving, you should park in one of the lots outside the town walls, as much of the center doesn't allow cars. Once in Assisi, you'll find walking is the best way to explore, though be prepared for some uphill sections as the town is built on a slope.
