Basilica in Assisi

Discover the Charm of Basilica in Assisi

Tucked away in the rolling hills of Umbria, Italy lies Assisi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and birthplace of Saint Francis. The Basilica di San Francesco dominates this medieval hilltop town, standing as both a spiritual pilgrimage destination and an artistic masterpiece. Built over the saint’s tomb in the 13th century, this remarkable two-level structure showcases priceless frescoes by Giotto and other Renaissance masters, making it essential for art lovers, history enthusiasts, and spiritual seekers alike.

Where to Visit

  1. Basilica di San Francesco: The crown jewel of Assisi, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a masterpiece of medieval architecture constructed between 1228-1253. The basilica comprises two distinct levels:

    • Lower Basilica: Features dramatic barrel-vaulted ceilings and intimate chapels adorned with frescoes by Giotto, Cimabue, and Lorenzetti. The crypt houses the tomb of Saint Francis, venerated by pilgrims worldwide.
    • Upper Basilica: Soaring Gothic architecture with twenty-eight frescoes by Giotto depicting the life of Saint Francis. These revolutionary artworks, completed around 1300, revolutionized Renaissance painting through their naturalism and emotional depth.

  2. Saint Francis Birthplace & Historic Sites: Assisi is the native soil of Saint Francis (1181-1226), founder of the Franciscan order. Visit the childhood home ruins and the Church of Santa Maria Sopra Minerva, one of Italy’s best-preserved Roman temples, converted to Christian worship.

  3. Piazza del Comune: The heart of Assisi’s medieval core, this atmospheric square features the Temple of Minerva, the Palazzo del Capitano, and the Torre del Popolo. Excellent cafes and restaurants provide views of the surrounding Umbrian countryside.

  4. Santa Chiara Basilica: Dedicated to Saint Clare, friend and spiritual companion of Saint Francis. The 13th-century church contains her venerated relics and features a striking pink-and-white striped facade typical of Umbrian Romanesque architecture.

Where to Eat

  1. Il Loggiuolo: Savor traditional Umbrian cuisine at this cozy restaurant in the heart of Assisi. Try their famous truffle pasta dish, a regional specialty highlighting black truffles from the surrounding Umbrian forests.
  2. La Taverna dei Mercanti: Enjoy local wines and dishes like porcini risotto or wild boar ragù in a warm, rustic atmosphere. The wine selection features Sagrantino, Grechetto, and other Umbrian varietals.
  3. Gelateria di Piazza del Comune: Beat the heat with a refreshing gelato at this popular ice cream parlor overlooking the piazza and Roman temple.
  4. Local Trattorias: Throughout the old town, family-run trattorias serve authentic dishes paired with local Umbrian wines, offering authentic culinary traditions passed through generations.

Where to Stay

  1. Hotel Il Palazzo del Capitano: Relax in style at this 4-star hotel located in the heart of Assisi.
  2. B&B La Bella Vita: Experience authentic Italian hospitality at this charming B&B, run by a local family.
  3. Casa Vacanze San Francesco: Rent an apartment or villa with stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Activities

  1. Basilica Exploration: Spend several hours exploring both levels of the basilica. Arrive early to appreciate the frescoes in natural light. Guided tours provide deeper insight into Giotto’s artistic innovations and the life of Saint Francis depicted in the artwork.

  2. Wine Tasting: Visit local wineries in the Umbrian countryside surrounding Assisi to sample Sagrantino di Montefalco, Grechetto, and Trebbiano wines. Many estates offer tours of vineyards and medieval cellars.

  3. Hiking and Cycling: Explore the UNESCO World Heritage landscape on foot or by bike, following trails through olive groves, vineyards, and medieval villages. The countryside offers views of terraced hillsides and ancient stone settlements.

  4. Cooking Class: Learn to prepare traditional Umbrian dishes using local ingredients like truffle, wild mushrooms, and pecorino cheese at culinary schools in town.

  5. Pilgrimage Experience: Follow the spiritual path of Saint Francis by visiting contemplative hermitages and sanctuaries in the surrounding hills, some requiring short hikes through forested terrain.

Tips and Essentials

  1. Getting There: The nearest airport is Perugia’s Sant’Egidio Airport (PEG). Rent a car or take a bus/train from there.
  2. Language: Italian, but many locals speak English.
  3. Weather: Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) are the best times to visit, with mild temperatures and fewer tourists.
  4. Respect: Dress modestly when visiting churches and respect local customs.

Insider’s Tip

Visit the Basilica di San Francesco early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid the crowds. Also, take a stroll around the old town at night, when the streets are quiet and the buildings are illuminated – it’s truly magical!