Find Spirituality on a Trip to Assisi, Italy

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Known as the birthplace of St. Francis, one of the Catholicism’s most worshipped saints, pilgrims have been flocking to Assisi since the 13th century. St. Francis was born and buried here at Assisi, and so the religious importance to the city. However, one doesn't need to be religious to enjoy the beauty of this picture-perfect town.

Religious Assisi

In Assisi, monks roaming around the town in brown robes or a group of pilgrims walking down the roads, is a common sight! Today, Assisi stands as a symbol of 'world peace'. It has hosted 3 World Religions meetings - Convened by Pope John Paul II in 1986 and 2002, and by Pope Benedict XVI in 2011.

St. Clare, who was inspired by St. Francis to follow the path of God, was also born here. The Poor Clares (the Order of Saint Clare) formed by St. Clare are the members of a contemplative Order of nuns, that exist even today. The influence of religion here is so strong that the most valuable artistic works are put up in the churches and Basilicas.

Basilica of St. Francis

The most popular attraction in Assisi, the Basilica of St. Francis is so huge that it can be seen miles away from the actual spot.

The upper church here (also known as the Basilica Superiore) has around 28 frescoes by Giotto; each depicting a scene from St. Francis' life. Frescoes by Cimabue, Pietro Lorenzetti, and Simone Martini can be seen in the Basilica Inferiore or the lower church. The Cripta di San Francesco, the monumental tomb of Assisi is located in the lower sanctuary.

San Rufino Cathedral

The Assisi Cathedral holds a special place in pilgrims' hearts.

The strong connection to St. Francis' life and the fountain where St. Francis and St. Clare were baptized can be found here. Dedicated to San Rufino or St. Rufinus after he converted Assisi to Christianity in AD 238, the Cathedral is also the place where he was martyred.

Basilica di Santa Maria degli Angeli

Located 2.5 miles from Assisi, St. Mary of Angels is a domed church. The Porziuncola, which is a tiny stone structure is believed to be the home of St. Francis and his followers. St. Francis supposedly founded the Franciscan order at this house and is also believed to have died here (or nearby) on October 3, 1226.

San Damiano Church

Known as the place where St. Francis first heard the voice of God asking him to 'rebuild the church', the San Damiano Church, is a tiny church located outside the walls of Assisi. The famous Canticle of Creatures, a religious song, was also written here. You can also enjoy the breathtaking views of the Valley of Spoleto from here.

Basilica di Santa Chiara

Your browser doesn't support HTML5 video. This 13th-century church with Romanesque architecture has an attractive pink and white facade.

Your browser doesn't support HTML5 video. St. Clare, the famous saint in the history of Catholic church, is buried in this Church's crypt. You can also see the Crucifix of San Damiano here at Basilica di Santa Chiara.

Chiesa Nuova

The high dome of Chiesa Nuova is adorned with coffers, lantern and a drum depicting the late Renaissance architecture. Built by King Philip III of Spain in the 1600s, the church is located atop the childhood home of St. Francis. A bronze statue of St. Francis' parents can be seen outside.