At the foot of the hill upon which Assisi rests, is the town of Santa Maria degli Angeli with the basilica by the same name (Saint Mary of the Angels) that houses the famous Porziuncula. Translating to “small portion of land, the Porziuncola is a tiny ancient stone chapel that was given to Saint Francis in 1211 and it has been the most sacred place for the Franciscans as this is also the place where Saint Francis died on October 3, 1226.

The massive Basilica of Saint Francis is composed of 2 levels: the Upper Basilica and the Lower Basilica. Construction began immediately after St Francis was canonized in 1228, and it features the well-recognized frescoes by the famous medieval artist Giotto and Cimabue. Beneath the Lower Basilica, you can visit the tomb of Saint Francis.

Previously an ancient Roman forum, this popular square situated in the center of Assisi is the town’s nucleus, and it’s surrounded by excellent restaurants, cafes, shops that sell local products, boutique markets, and more. Time for lunch!

Right on Piazza del Comune, you will see the visible remains of the ancient Roman pagan Temple of goddess Minerva. In the 1500s the structure was transformed into the church of Santa Maria Sopra Minerva. In the 17th century, the church was further renovated in the richly ornate Baroque style that resembles a “jewel box”.

This 13th-century basilica dedicated to Saint Claire features enormous lateral buttresses on the outside and simple Gothic interior. Below, you can visit the tomb of Saint Claire. Inside the Chapel of the Crucifix, hangs the cherished “San Damiano Cross”, the large wooden crucifix that is believed to have come alive and spoken to Saint Francis. Outside, the outer side of the square in front of the basilica will reward you with a stunningly beautiful panorama.