Assisi: basilicas, Umbrian landscape and Franciscan memory
Assisi is located on the side of Mount Subasio and dominates the Umbrian valley. The city is linked to Francesco and Chiara, but also preserves Roman remains, walls, medieval neighborhoods and living institutions. The Franciscan complex and other sites are registered by UNESCO as a cultural complex.
History and identity
The basilica of San Francesco was begun shortly after the canonization of the saint and includes the lower church, upper church and convent. The pictorial cycles involved important medieval masters. The Roman city is recognizable in the temple of Minerva, in the forum under the square and in other remains integrated into the subsequent fabric.
What to see
A route connects the basilica, the Piazza del Comune, Santa Chiara and the cathedral of San Rufino. The Rocca Maggiore requires a climb and offers a defensive interpretation of the place. Santa Maria degli Angeli, with the Porziuncola, is in the plain and requires a separate transfer.
Understand the place
Assisi features slopes, irregular stone and significant distances. Basilicas are places of worship with controls, dress rules and celebrations. Buses and car parks serve different accesses. For a respectful visit you need to speak slowly, avoid blocking groups of pilgrims and check openings and restorations.
Prepare the visit
Times, access conditions and transportation may change. Before the trip, check the official pages linked from the source, protect the heritage and leave the entrances to the homes free. Source in local language.