ASSISI
- Ljubica Soldo
- Apr 14
- 11 min read
Assisi – A Spiritual Journey into the Heart of Italy, the City of Saint Francis.
In the green heart of Italy, nestled in the region of Umbria, lies the enchanting medieval city of Assisi. Known globally as the city of Saint Francis, one of the most beloved Catholic saints, Assisi draws thousands of pilgrims and tourists each year, eager to experience its unique spiritual atmosphere. This picturesque town, situated on the slopes of Mount Subasio, radiates peace and simplicity, embodied in its narrow stone streets, floral balconies, and medieval buildings. Its main attraction, the majestic Basilica of Saint Francis of Assisi, serves as a place of pilgrimage, prayer, and admiration for artistic masterpieces by renowned masters like Giotto. Assisi is more than just a destination – it is a profound spiritual experience that remains in the hearts of all visitors as a place of deep tranquility, reflection, and a return to the fundamental human values promoted by Saint Francis: humility, compassion for others, and harmony with nature. Welcome to Assisi – a city of peace, faith, and beauty.
Historical Overview of Assisi
The history of Assisi dates back to ancient Roman times when the city was known as Asisium. During the Roman Empire, Assisi served as a significant trading hub due to its strategic location and connection to major Roman roads. Numerous well-preserved Roman buildings and ruins still remain today, bearing witness to the city's rich historical heritage.
In the Middle Ages, Assisi experienced remarkable growth, closely linked to the life and mission of Saint Francis of Assisi, whose profound legacy has permanently shaped the city, establishing it as one of the most important pilgrimage destinations worldwide. In the year 2000, UNESCO recognized the historic center of Assisi as a World Heritage Site, highlighting its exceptional cultural, historical, and spiritual significance.
Some of the key historical landmarks worth visiting include:
Piazza del Comune and the Temple of Minerva
Piazza del Comune has been at the heart of Assisi's social and historical life since antiquity. Dominating this charming square is the impressive Temple of Minerva, constructed in the 1st century BC. Today, this remarkably preserved ancient structure serves as the Church of Santa Maria sopra Minerva, blending Roman architectural heritage with Christian spirituality. (Detailed information about the Church of Santa Maria sopra Minerva will be provided in the spiritual section.)
Rocca Maggiore – Medieval Fortress
The imposing Rocca Maggiore fortress stands high above the city and has protected Assisi for centuries. Most of the fortress's current appearance dates from the 14th century. Beyond its historical significance, Rocca Maggiore provides spectacular panoramic views of the city, the surrounding valley, and breathtaking sunsets, making it an unmissable attraction for visitors.
Saint Francis of Assisi – Life, Legacy, and Influence
The Life Story of Saint Francis
Saint Francis of Assisi, born Giovanni di Pietro di Bernardone, is one of Christianity's most beloved and influential figures. Born around 1181 in Assisi, he initially led a comfortable and affluent life, enjoying youthful pleasures. His transformation from a wealthy merchant's son to a devoted follower of Christ profoundly reshaped not only his own life but also created an enduring spiritual legacy.
Francis experienced a deep spiritual conversion after participating in military conflicts, enduring a period of captivity and illness. His defining moment occurred in the church of San Damiano near Assisi, where, while praying before the crucifix, he heard Christ’s voice urging him:
"Francis, go and repair my house, which is falling into ruin."
From that moment onward, Francis abandoned his worldly wealth, choosing a life of radical poverty and simplicity, wholly dedicated to serving God and caring for the poor and marginalized.
In 1209, he founded the Franciscan Order, a community of friars committed to humility, poverty, and spreading the Gospel through both actions and words. Francis's example inspired countless followers, quickly spreading the Franciscan movement throughout Europe and beyond. Saint Francis passed away on October 3, 1226, and was canonized only two years later, in 1228, by Pope Gregory IX. His feast day is celebrated annually on October 4.
Why is Saint Francis Important and Influential?
Saint Francis is revered for his profound humility, compassion, and unwavering commitment to peace and harmony. His teachings transcend religious boundaries, influencing people worldwide and encouraging a deeper appreciation for nature, simplicity, and empathy. Additionally, Francis is recognized as the patron saint of animals and ecology, symbolizing harmony between humans and nature.
Today, millions of pilgrims and admirers journey to Assisi, inspired by his remarkable life story and the timeless relevance of his message.
Interesting Facts, Legends, and Miracles Associated with Saint Francis
The Wolf of Gubbio:A famous legend recounts how Francis peacefully tamed a fierce wolf that was terrorizing the town of Gubbio. Through his gentle manner, he established peace between the wolf and local townspeople.
Stigmata:Saint Francis was reportedly the first recorded saint to bear the marks of Christ’s crucifixion (stigmata), which he received during a mystical vision on Mount La Verna in 1224.
Preaching to Birds:Legends recount that Francis often preached sermons to birds, illustrating his profound connection to nature and all living creatures.
Spiritual Heritage of Assisi
The spiritual heritage of Assisi is rich, profound, and deeply connected to the life and legacy of Saint Francis and Saint Clare. Thousands of pilgrims and visitors arrive each year, drawn by the desire to experience the peace, devotion, and remarkable spiritual atmosphere of this unique city. Assisi's churches are not just magnificent architectural masterpieces; they are sacred places filled with history, art, and powerful stories of faith, miracles, and conversion. Each of these churches offers visitors a unique glimpse into the lives of Assisi’s beloved saints, providing spaces for prayer, reflection, and spiritual renewal. In this detailed guide, we will explore the most significant churches in Assisi, delving into their history, meaning, artistic treasures, and spiritual significance. Whether you're on a pilgrimage or simply seeking peace and inspiration, this guide will lead you to the heart of Assisi’s spiritual heritage.
Basilica of Saint Francis of Assisi (Basilica di San Francesco)
Significance and History
The Basilica of Saint Francis is not only the most famous landmark in Assisi but also one of the most revered pilgrimage sites in the Christian world. Constructed shortly after Saint Francis’s death (beginning in 1228), the basilica was built to honor the saint and house his remains. Pope Gregory IX laid the first foundation stone, emphasizing the basilica’s spiritual significance from its very beginning. The basilica complex consists of two churches—the Upper Basilica (Basilica Superiore) and the Lower Basilica (Basilica Inferiore)—each richly decorated with extraordinary works of art. Beneath the Lower Basilica lies the crypt containing the tomb of Saint Francis, a profoundly spiritual place visited by millions each year.
Upper Basilica (Basilica Superiore)
The Upper Basilica is renowned for its stunning Gothic architecture and brightly lit interiors, creating an atmosphere of celestial beauty. Its walls and ceiling are adorned with breathtaking frescoes depicting scenes from the life of Saint Francis, executed by renowned artists, most notably Giotto.
Lower Basilica (Basilica Inferiore)
The Lower Basilica is distinctly different—darker, more intimate, and reflective. It is a place for prayer, contemplation, and reverence. Here visitors can find remarkable frescoes by Cimabue and Lorenzetti, alongside other masterpieces that narrate religious stories and symbolize Franciscan spirituality.
Tomb of Saint Francis
The crypt beneath the basilica holds the humble stone sarcophagus containing Saint Francis’s remains, a powerful symbol of simplicity and humility. Visitors from around the world come here to pray and experience profound moments of peace and spiritual reflection.
Artistic Treasures – Giotto’s Frescoes
One of the basilica's greatest artistic highlights is Giotto’s cycle of frescoes in the Upper Basilica, illustrating 28 pivotal moments in Saint Francis’s life. These frescoes are celebrated worldwide for their historical significance, artistic innovation, and emotional depth.
Interesting Fact – The Earthquake of 1997
In September 1997, a devastating earthquake severely damaged parts of the basilica, causing some frescoes to collapse. Restoration work began immediately, attracting international attention, and was completed meticulously over several years. Today, the basilica stands fully restored, symbolizing resilience and faith.
Basilica of Saint Clare (Basilica di Santa Chiara)
Significance and History
The Basilica of Saint Clare, dedicated to Saint Clare of Assisi, is one of the most cherished spiritual landmarks of the city. Built between 1257 and 1265, the basilica is an elegant example of Italian Gothic architecture, notable for its distinctive pink and white stone facade.
Saint Clare (1194–1253) was a devoted follower of Saint Francis and the founder of the Order of Poor Clares, a community dedicated to poverty, prayer, and simplicity. Clare’s life was deeply intertwined with Francis’s spiritual mission, and she is honored as a model of humility, strength, and unwavering faith.
Inside the basilica, visitors can experience tranquility and reverence, inspired by the story of Clare's remarkable life of devotion.
The Cross of San Damiano
One of the basilica’s most important treasures is the original Cross of San Damiano. It was in front of this iconic crucifix that Saint Francis experienced his powerful spiritual conversion, hearing Christ’s voice urging him to repair His Church. The crucifix symbolizes deep spirituality, renewal, and Franciscan devotion.
Interesting Facts – Saint Clare's Importance and Her Connection to Francis
Saint Clare was profoundly influenced by Saint Francis. Inspired by his preaching, she abandoned her wealthy and comfortable life to embrace poverty and dedication to Christ. Her spiritual strength attracted numerous women to follow her example, establishing a lasting religious legacy through the Poor Clares. Saint Clare is also famously known for the miracle when, in 1240, through fervent prayer, she protected the convent of San Damiano and the city of Assisi from a Saracen invasion.
Tomb of Saint Clare
The basilica houses the tomb of Saint Clare, a humble, serene crypt beneath the church. Pilgrims from around the world visit to honor her memory, pray, and seek spiritual comfort.
Church of San Damiano (San Damiano)
Description and Significance
The Church of San Damiano is a modest yet deeply spiritual chapel situated in the peaceful countryside, just outside the walls of Assisi. Its simple stone structure, characterized by humble architecture, perfectly embodies the Franciscan ideals of simplicity and humility.
As previously mentioned, this small church holds immense significance because it was here, before the famous Crucifix of San Damiano (now kept in the Basilica of Saint Clare), that Saint Francis experienced his transformative spiritual call.
Today, visitors find in San Damiano a quiet sanctuary surrounded by olive groves, gardens, and serene landscapes. Its intimate interior invites visitors into reflection and prayer, evoking the profound spirituality of Saint Francis and Saint Clare. The chapel has preserved many original features, including the cloister and the small rooms where Saint Clare and her sisters lived and prayed for decades.
In this peaceful chapel, pilgrims often find a sense of closeness to the very essence of Franciscan spirituality—a life dedicated to simplicity, contemplation, and profound peace.
Church of Santa Maria sopra Minerva
Located on the lively Piazza del Comune, the Church of Santa Maria sopra Minerva is one of Assisi’s most unique spiritual sites. Originally built as a Roman temple dedicated to the goddess Minerva in the 1st century BC, this structure has been remarkably well preserved. In the 16th century, the ancient temple was transformed into a Christian church, blending classical Roman architecture with baroque Christian elements. Its impressive façade with six Corinthian columns still stands as one of the finest examples of ancient Roman architecture in Assisi. Inside, the contrast is striking—the baroque interior invites prayer and reflection, while the ancient exterior reminds visitors of Assisi’s deep historical roots. This church beautifully symbolizes the transition from paganism to Christianity and the continuity of faith through time.
Basilica of Santa Maria degli Angeli (Porziuncola)
The Importance of the Porziuncola – Cradle of the Franciscan Order
Located just below Assisi, in the district of Santa Maria degli Angeli, this magnificent basilica protects one of the most cherished Franciscan sites—the Porziuncola. Although outside the historical hilltop center, it officially belongs to the municipality of Assisi and plays a central role in its spiritual identity. The Porziuncola is a small, ancient chapel originally dating back to the 4th century, and it holds profound spiritual meaning for Franciscans worldwide. It was here, in 1209, that Saint Francis founded his community of friars, making it the very cradle of the Franciscan Order.
To honor this sacred place, the grand basilica was built between 1569 and 1679, carefully designed to enclose and preserve the small chapel inside it, making the Porziuncola the heart of the entire church.
Story of the Porziuncola Indulgence ("Pardon of Assisi")
The Porziuncola is especially known for the Porziuncola Indulgence, also called the "Pardon of Assisi". According to tradition, Saint Francis asked Pope Honorius III in 1216 to grant a special plenary indulgence to anyone who visited the chapel with a contrite heart.
The Pope agreed, and since then, every year on August 2, thousands of pilgrims come to the Porziuncola to receive this indulgence. The celebration is a deeply moving spiritual event that reflects the Franciscan message of mercy, humility, and divine forgiveness—a tradition that continues to this day.
Cathedral of San Rufino (Cattedrale di San Rufino)
Significance – Baptismal Site of Francis and Clare
Dedicated to Saint Rufinus of Assisi, the Cathedral of San Rufino is a historically significant church in Assisi, celebrated as the baptismal site of both Saint Francis and Saint Clare.
Built mainly during the 12th century, the cathedral is a masterpiece of Romanesque architecture, with its beautiful façade showcasing intricate sculptures and symbolism reflecting biblical narratives and local traditions.
Historical Facts and Highlights
The baptismal font where both Francis and Clare received baptism is still preserved, making it an emotional and spiritually evocative spot for visitors.
Underneath the cathedral, there is a museum exhibiting historical artifacts, offering insights into Assisi's rich ecclesiastical heritage.
Eremo delle Carceri (Hermitage of the Prisons)
A Place for Meditation and Silence
Set high on the slopes of Mount Subasio, the Eremo delle Carceri is a serene Franciscan hermitage, a place deeply connected with the spiritual journey of Saint Francis. Originally small caves and shelters in the forest, the site offered Francis and his companions a place of solitude, prayer, and spiritual contemplation.
Today, Eremo delle Carceri remains a special retreat for those seeking silence, meditation, and spiritual renewal. It is surrounded by a peaceful forest landscape, providing pilgrims and visitors the chance to follow in the footsteps of Francis, reflecting deeply in the beauty and quietness of nature.
Visitor Recommendations
Visitors are encouraged to take their time exploring, reflecting quietly, and meditating in this spiritually charged environment.
Walk slowly through the ancient paths and caves that once sheltered Francis, and allow yourself to be inspired by the simplicity and tranquility of this unique spiritual sanctuary.
Discovering Assisi: Stories, Flavors, and Local Life
Assisi is a town where history, faith, and everyday life blend into one unforgettable experience. While known for its sacred heritage, Assisi also offers unique stories, rich traditions, and local flavors that bring the spirit of Umbria to life.
Curious Legends and Local Stories
Assisi is filled with legends and testimonies of miracles. From Saint Francis taming the Wolf of Gubbio to accounts of unexpected healings, stories of faith and wonder echo through its streets and ancient walls.
Famous Visitors
Throughout the centuries, Assisi has attracted many notable figures—Popes, saints, artists, and modern pilgrims alike. Pope John Paul II and Pope Francis both expressed deep admiration for the town, seeing it as a global symbol of peace and spirituality. Visitors often describe their time in Assisi as transformative.
Local Food and Specialties
Umbria is known for its simple and authentic cuisine, and Assisi proudly reflects that tradition. The Rocciata di Assisi, a spiced apple and walnut pastry, is a beloved local dessert. Visitors can also enjoy local wines and olive oils, often produced in nearby hills. Traditional trattorias serve these flavors in cozy, welcoming settings.
The Atmosphere and Way of Life
Assisi radiates tranquility. The gentle pace of life, the hospitality of the people, and the quiet beauty of its streets create an atmosphere of calm and harmony. Markets, flower-filled balconies, and peaceful squares show the town’s warmth beyond its sacred walls.
What You’ll Feel
Assisi invites you to pause, breathe, and reconnect—with history, nature, and yourself. Whether you're a pilgrim or a traveler in search of meaning, the experience of Assisi stays with you long after you leave.
Why Assisi Leaves a Lasting Impression
Assisi is not just a destination on the map—it is a place of the heart. A town where silence speaks, where peace is not just a word but a way of life, and where every stone carries the gentle echo of Saint Francis and Saint Clare.
Whether you come seeking spiritual renewal, cultural discovery, or a moment of stillness in a busy world, Assisi offers something deeply personal to each visitor. It invites you to slow down, listen, and reconnect—with faith, with nature, and with yourself.
🕊️ Come to Assisi not only to see—but to feel. Let the quiet beauty of this sacred place leave a mark on your soul.
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