The Catholic Pilgrim's Guide to Assisi, Italy

Located in central Italy's Umbria region, in the province of Perugia, Assisi rises majestically from the Umbrian valley at an elevation of 424 meters (1,391 feet). The city's pink and white stone buildings, quarried from Mount Subasio itself, create a harmonious architectural unity that has remained virtually unchanged since medieval times. This "seraphic city" continues its ancient role as a spiritual center for the Franciscan Order and welcomes millions of pilgrims annually who come to walk in the footsteps of Il Poverello (the Little Poor One), as St. Francis is affectionately known.

The city's profound spiritual significance extends beyond its famous saints to include Blessed Carlo Acutis (1991-2006), the "computer programmer saint" whose incorrupt body now rests in Assisi, making this a unique tri-generational pilgrimage destination spanning nearly a millennium of Catholic devotion.

✝️ The Sacred Sites of Assisi

1. Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi

Local Name (Italian): Basilica di San Francesco d'Assisi
Colloquial Name: The Mother Church of the Franciscan Order
🏛️ Type: Papal Minor Basilica, World Heritage Site, Saint Shrine

📖 Description / Highlights: This magnificent double basilica complex, begun immediately after Francis's canonization in 1228, represents one of Christianity's most important architectural and artistic achievements. Built into the side of "Hell Hill" (Colle d'Inferno)—now called "Paradise Hill"—the basilica consists of the Lower Church (completed 1230) and Upper Church (completed 1253), creating a unique vertical sanctuary.

The Lower Basilica serves as the saint's crypt and spiritual heart of the Franciscan world. St. Francis's tomb, rediscovered in 1818 after being hidden for six centuries, lies beneath the high altar in a simple stone sarcophagus accessible via the crypt. The darkly intimate atmosphere is illuminated by masterful frescoes including Simone Martini's Life of St. Martin and works by Pietro Lorenzetti.

The Upper Basilica soars above in Gothic grandeur, featuring Giotto's revolutionary 28-scene fresco cycle depicting the Life of St. Francis—arguably the most important artwork in Western Christianity. These frescoes, though damaged in the 1997 earthquake, remain largely intact and represent the foundation of Renaissance art.

The Sacro Convento (Sacred Convent) adjacent to the basilica houses the Franciscan Treasury with precious relics, including St. Francis's simple gray habit, the stone he used as a pillow, and his autograph blessing to Brother Leo.

🧭 Directions:
📍 Address: Piazza Inferiore di S. Francesco, 2, 06081 Assisi PG, Italy
🧿 ///What3Words: ///grips.robot.wiped
🗺️ Google Maps: View Map
📌 GPS Coordinates: 43.0742, 12.6058
🌐 Website: https://www.sanfrancescoassisi.org

2. Basilica of St. Clare

Local Name (Italian): Basilica di Santa Chiara
Colloquial Name: The Poor Ladies' Church
🏛️ Type: Minor Basilica, Saint Shrine, Clarissan Motherhouse

📖 Description / Highlights: This striking pink and white striped Gothic basilica (1257-1265) honors the "most faithful disciple of St. Francis" and foundress of the Order of Poor Ladies (Poor Clares). Built on the site of the ancient Church of San Giorgio, where both St. Francis and St. Clare were first buried, the basilica embodies the elegant simplicity that characterizes Franciscan spirituality.

St. Clare's perfectly preserved skeletal remains rest in a crystal shrine within the crypt, discovered in 1850 after six centuries of concealment. The crypt also houses the tombs of St. Clare's sisters Agnes and Beatrice, her mother St. Ortolana, and other early Poor Clares.

The basilica's treasure is the original San Damiano Cross from which Christ spoke to St. Francis, commanding him to "rebuild my church." This 12th-century icon, featuring a triumphant rather than suffering Christ, hangs in the Cappella di San Giorgio. The basilica also preserves relics of both saints, including some of St. Clare's hand-made garments.

The Piazza Santa Chiara before the basilica offers breathtaking panoramic views across the Umbrian valley to Santa Maria degli Angeli, making it a perfect place for contemplation and prayer.

🧭 Directions:
📍 Address: Piazza Santa Chiara, 06081 Assisi PG, Italy
🧿 ///What3Words: ///medals.rushed.admired
🗺️ Google Maps: View Map
📌 GPS Coordinates: 43.0697, 12.6081
🌐 Website: https://www.assisisantachiara.it

3. Basilica of Santa Maria degli Angeli (The Porziuncola)

Local Name (Italian): Basilica di Santa Maria degli Angeli
Colloquial Name: The Porziuncola, "Little Portion"
🏛️ Type: Papal Minor Basilica, Franciscan Motherhouse, Indulgence Shrine

📖 Description / Highlights: Four kilometers from Assisi's historic center stands this magnificent Mannerist basilica (1569-1679), the seventh-largest church in Christendom, built to protect the tiny 9th-century Porziuncola chapel where St. Francis founded his order. This humble stone chapel, measuring only 5.5 by 3.2 meters, is literally enclosed within the massive basilica like a jewel in a setting.

The Porziuncola ("Little Portion") is where Francis experienced his definitive calling in 1208, hearing Christ's commission from the Gospel of Matthew. Here he welcomed his first followers, received St. Clare into religious life (1212), and composed his "Canticle of the Creatures." Most significantly, this is where St. Francis died on October 3, 1226, in the adjacent Chapel of the Transit (Cappella del Transito), which preserves the actual cell where he passed away.

The Porziuncola Indulgence, granted by Christ himself in a vision to St. Francis, makes this a major pilgrimage destination. Pilgrims who visit on August 2 (or any day of the year) can receive a plenary indulgence under the usual conditions.

The Rose Garden (Roseto), accessible through the sacristy, contains the legendary thornless roses where St. Francis rolled to overcome temptation—the thorns miraculously disappeared, and descendants of these unique roses still bloom there.

🧭 Directions:
📍 Address: Piazza Porziuncola, 1, 06081 Santa Maria degli Angeli PG, Italy
🧿 ///What3Words: ///caring.pads.glow
🗺️ Google Maps: View Map
📌 GPS Coordinates: 43.0586, 12.5811
🌐 Website: https://porziuncola.org

4. Cathedral of San Rufino

Local Name (Italian): Cattedrale di San Rufino
Colloquial Name: Assisi Cathedral
🏛️ Type: Cathedral, Baptistery of Saints

📖 Description / Highlights: This Romanesque cathedral (12th century) holds the distinction of being the baptistery of both St. Francis and St. Clare, as well as Emperor Frederick II. Dedicated to San Rufino, Assisi's first bishop and martyr (3rd century), the cathedral features one of Umbria's most beautiful Romanesque façades with intricate rose windows and sculptural details.

The baptismal font where the two great saints received the sacrament that began their spiritual journeys remains a major pilgrimage attraction. The cathedral museum houses precious relics and artworks, including personal items of St. Clare and early Franciscan manuscripts.

🧭 Directions:
📍 Address: Piazza San Rufino, 06081 Assisi PG, Italy
📌 GPS Coordinates: 43.0706, 12.6094

5. Church of Santa Maria Maggiore (Blessed Carlo Acutis)

Local Name (Italian): Chiesa di Santa Maria Maggiore
Colloquial Name: The New Church, Carlo Acutis Sanctuary
🏛️ Type: Parish Church, Blessed Shrine

📖 Description / Highlights: This Renaissance church (17th century) has gained new prominence as the resting place of Blessed Carlo Acutis (1991-2006), the young Italian computer programmer beatified in 2020. Carlo's incorrupt body lies in a modern shrine, attracting thousands of young pilgrims who see him as a model for living faith in the digital age.

The church was built on the presumed site of St. Francis's birth house, with the altar positioned over the room where the saint was born. A small opening in the floor shows where his father once imprisoned him during their famous conflict over Francis's religious calling.

🧭 Directions:
📍 Address: Via Giuseppe Alessi, 06081 Assisi PG, Italy
📌 GPS Coordinates: 43.0708, 12.6105

6. Sanctuary of San Damiano

Local Name (Italian): Santuario di San Damiano
Colloquial Name: The Church that Spoke to Francis
🏛️ Type: Franciscan Sanctuary, Historic Convent

📖 Description / Highlights: This humble chapel, 1.5 kilometers from Assisi, is where St. Francis received his life-changing mystical vision around 1205. While praying before a Byzantine crucifix, he heard Christ say three times: "Francis, repair my house which is falling into ruin." Initially taking this literally, Francis sold goods to repair the chapel, but later understood the deeper meaning about reforming the Church.

San Damiano later became St. Clare's convent (1212-1253), where she lived until her death and where she wrote her Rule—the first monastic rule authored by a woman. The simple stone buildings, garden, and atmosphere remain unchanged, offering pilgrims an authentic glimpse into early Franciscan life.

🧭 Directions:
📍 Address: Via San Damiano, 06081 Assisi PG, Italy
📌 GPS Coordinates: 43.0622, 12.5986

7. Hermitage of the Carceri

Local Name (Italian): Eremo delle Carceri
Colloquial Name: The Prison Cells, Francis's Hermitage
🏛️ Type: Franciscan Hermitage, Mountain Sanctuary

📖 Description / Highlights: Hidden in the dense forest of Mount Subasio, 4 kilometers above Assisi, this hermitage marks where St. Francis and his early companions retreated for prayer and contemplation. The name "Carceri" (prisons) refers to the natural caves where the friars "imprisoned" themselves in prayer and penance.

The hermitage includes the Chapel of Santa Maria delle Carceri, the primitive cells, and the Tree of St. Francis—an ancient holm oak where birds would gather to hear the saint preach. The peaceful forest setting, unchanged for 800 years, offers profound silence perfect for meditation and prayer.

🧭 Directions:
📍 Address: Via Eremo delle Carceri, 06081 Assisi PG, Italy
📌 GPS Coordinates: 43.0833, 12.6333

🛏️ Where to Stay

Assisi offers exceptional accommodation options for pilgrims, from monastery guesthouses to luxury hotels within the medieval walls.

Hotels Near the Basilicas

Hotel Sorella Luna ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Only 100 meters from the Basilica of St. Francis, this charming hotel offers an ideal location for pilgrims. The property features comfortable rooms with traditional Umbrian décor and excellent service.

Hotel Fontebella ⭐⭐⭐⭐
A beautiful 4-star hotel in the historic center, just 5 minutes' walk from the Basilica of St. Francis and 10 minutes from the Basilica of St. Clare. Features private parking and excellent breakfast.

Hotel Giotto Assisi ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Family-run hotel with stunning views of the Umbrian valley, located within easy walking distance of all major pilgrimage sites. Known for exceptional hospitality and traditional Umbrian cuisine.

Nun Assisi Relais & Spa Museum ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Luxurious accommodation in a renovated former convent, featuring panoramic views, spa services built over Roman excavations, and uniquely decorated rooms combining history with modern comfort.

Religious and Monastery Accommodations

Cittadella Ospitalità
Franciscan-operated pilgrim house offering simple, clean accommodation specifically for pilgrims and religious groups. Located near the Basilica of St. Mary of the Angels with chapel and meeting rooms.

Casa Papa Giovanni XXIII
Religious guesthouse operated by the Diocese of Assisi, offering affordable accommodation for pilgrims with spiritual programs and guides available.

Monastery Stays
Several convents and monasteries in and around Assisi offer authentic religious hospitality, including meals, participation in liturgical prayers, and spiritual guidance.

Budget-Friendly Options

Hotel Minerva ⭐⭐⭐
Located in the historic center just 100 meters from the Basilica of St. Francis, offering excellent value accommodation with traditional Umbrian hospitality.

Hotel Pax ⭐⭐⭐
Set in a historic building near Piazza Vescovado, just 50 meters from Piazza del Comune, offering comfortable rooms at reasonable rates with excellent restaurant.

Ostello della Pace
Youth hostel accommodation for budget-conscious pilgrims, featuring dormitory and private rooms with shared facilities in a peaceful setting.

🚗 Getting There

By Air

Rome Fiumicino (FCO): 180 km - Take train to Rome Termini, then to Foligno, then local train to Assisi
Rome Ciampino (CIA): 170 km - Bus to Rome Termini, then train connections
Perugia Sant'Egidio (PEG): 20 km - Regional airport with bus connections to Assisi

By Train

From Rome: Direct trains to Foligno (1.5 hours), then local train to Assisi (20 minutes)
From Florence: Train via Terontola to Foligno, then to Assisi (2.5 hours total)
Assisi Railway Station: 4 km from historic center, regular bus service or taxi

By Car

From Rome: A1 Autostrada to Orte, then E45 to Cesena, then SS75 to Assisi (2 hours)
From Florence: A1 to Valdichiana, then E45/SS75 to Assisi (2 hours)
Parking: Multiple parking areas outside the medieval walls with escalator/elevator access

By Bus

Regular bus service connects Assisi with major Italian cities and regional centers. Local buses connect the railway station, historic center, and Santa Maria degli Angeli.

📅 Major Celebrations and Feast Days

Feast of St. Francis - October 4
The most important celebration in Assisi, featuring solemn liturgies, the blessing of animals, and international peace prayers. The entire city becomes a site of pilgrimage.

Feast of St. Clare - August 11
Special celebrations at the Basilica of St. Clare with evening processions through the medieval streets and extended liturgical programs.

Porziuncola Indulgence - August 1-2
The "Pardon of Assisi" draws thousands of pilgrims seeking the plenary indulgence. Special Masses and prayer services continue throughout the night.

Easter Week
Elaborate Holy Week observances throughout the city, including the famous Easter procession and special liturgies at all the major basilicas.

Christmas Season
Assisi celebrates the "inventor" of the Christmas crèche with elaborate Nativity displays throughout the city and special Christmas Eve Mass at the Porziuncola.

World Day of Prayer for Peace - October 27
Annual gathering of world religious leaders for interfaith prayer services, continuing the tradition established by Pope John Paul II in 1986.

🥾 The Franciscan Pilgrimage Walk

The Peace Path (Sentiero della Pace)

A 20-kilometer walking route connecting all major Franciscan sites around Mount Subasio, including:

• Historic Assisi center (Basilicas of St. Francis and St. Clare)
• Santa Maria degli Angeli (Porziuncola)
• San Damiano Sanctuary
• Hermitage of the Carceri
• Rivotorto (St. Francis's first community)

The Way of St. Francis (Via di Francesco)

Long-distance pilgrimage route from Florence to Rome (500 km) passing through Assisi, with shorter sections available for day walks.

🔗 Useful Links

Official Assisi Tourism: https://www.visit-assisi.it/en/
Basilica of St. Francis: https://www.sanfrancescoassisi.org
Porziuncola Basilica: https://porziuncola.org
Basilica of St. Clare: https://www.assisisantachiara.it
UNESCO World Heritage: https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/990/
Franciscan Pilgrimage Programs: https://www.ofm.org
Transportation: https://www.trenitalia.com (trains), https://www.fsbusitalia.it (buses)
Monastery Stays: https://www.monasterystays.com
Diocese of Assisi: Official information on liturgical celebrations
Italy Tourism: https://www.italia.it/en/umbria/assisi

💡 Pilgrim Tips

Best Time to Visit: April-June and September-October offer ideal weather and fewer crowds
Clothing: Modest dress required in all churches; comfortable walking shoes essential for cobblestone streets
Language: Basic Italian helpful; many sites offer multilingual guides and materials
Photography: Permitted in most areas except where specifically prohibited; no flash in frescoed areas
Mass Times: Check local schedules as they vary seasonally; early morning Masses offer quieter prayer opportunities
Accessibility: Historic center challenging for mobility-impaired visitors; modern elevators and ramps available at major parking areas
Guided Tours: Franciscan friars offer specialized spiritual tours; art history tours available for the basilica frescoes
Souvenirs: Authentic Franciscan items available at official basilica shops; support fair trade and local artisan products

Special Pilgrim Tip: Many pilgrims find it meaningful to visit the sites in chronological order of St. Francis's life: San Damiano (his calling), Porziuncola (founding the order), Basilica of St. Francis (his earthly rest). The peaceful early morning hours at each site offer the most authentic spiritual experience, away from tourist crowds.

Modern Connection: For younger pilgrims inspired by Blessed Carlo Acutis, consider visiting his tomb at Santa Maria Maggiore as part of a multi-generational pilgrimage experience that bridges medieval and contemporary sanctity.

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