Assisi, Italy is a hill town in Umbria on the western slopes of Mount Subasio. It’s known as the birthplace of St. Francis and for a historic center that preserves Roman remains, medieval street patterns, and major Franciscan monuments recognized by UNESCO.

The best-known site is the Basilica of San Francesco, a 13th-century complex built after Francis’ canonization. Inside, the Lower and Upper churches preserve important fresco cycles associated with Giotto’s circle and other painters working in central Italy in the late 13th and early 14th centuries.

Assisi’s historic center is compact and walkable. You move between the Roman Piazza del Comune (anchored by the Temple of Minerva) and later civic and religious buildings, with frequent viewpoints across the Umbrian valley from gates and higher terraces.

We visited Assisi during our stay in Perugia. This guide reflects what we learned before the trip and what we observed first-hand during our visit.

We visited Assisi during our month-long stay in Perugia, taking advantage of its quick train connections. In this post, we’ll explore Assisi's layered history, architectural highlights, and the must-see attractions that define this city.

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Assisi’s history spans more than two millennia, from an Umbrian settlement to the Roman town of Asisium and later a medieval commune. The town’s global profile is tied to Francis of Assisi (born 1181/1182) and the rapid construction of Franciscan sites after his canonization in 1228.

Assisi’s street layout, public spaces, and major churches still reflect these phases, with Roman structures reused in later buildings and medieval construction concentrated along the ridge and terraces of Mount Subasio.

The earliest settlement on the slopes of Mount Subasio was established by the Umbrians, an Italic tribe inhabiting central Italy before the rise of Rome. By the 1st century BCE, the town was absorbed into the Roman Empire and became known as Asisium. The Romans built temples, baths, and a forum, parts of which still survive. The Temple of Minerva, built in the second half of the 1st century BCE, is the most intact Roman façade in the historic center.

Assisi developed an early Christian presence; local tradition places a bishop in Assisi by the mid-3rd century, but exact dates vary by source. Following the collapse of the Western Roman Empire, the town came under control of the Lombards and later the Franks. In the 10th and 11th centuries, Assisi was governed by local feudal lords but gradually asserted municipal independence, eventually becoming a self-governed commune by the 12th century.

Assisi’s most transformative period began with the birth of Giovanni di Pietro di Bernardone—later canonized as St. Francis of Assisi—in either 1181 or 1182. A former soldier who renounced wealth to live a life of poverty and service, Francis founded the Franciscan Order and became one of the most influential figures in Christian history. After his death in 1226 and rapid canonization in 1228, construction began on the Basilica of San Francesco, which soon turned Assisi into a major pilgrimage destination. This period also saw the rise of Giotto, Cimabue, and other artists who helped define early Italian painting through their work in the basilica.

During the late Middle Ages and Renaissance, Assisi remained under the control of the Papal States. The town saw continued religious and architectural development, including the construction of convents, bell towers, and civic structures. While not a major Renaissance artistic hub like Florence or Rome, Assisi maintained its role as a spiritual center and benefitted from periodic artistic patronage.

Assisi became part of the unified Kingdom of Italy in 1860. In the 20th century, it sustained damage during both World Wars and was seriously affected by the 1997 earthquake, which led to a major restoration campaign, especially within the Basilica of San Francesco. In 2000, UNESCO inscribed Assisi and its surrounding Franciscan sites on the World Heritage list, citing the town’s “continuity of a city sanctuary” and its profound influence on religious architecture and culture throughout Europe.

Assisi’s architecture reflects more than two thousand years of continuous development, shaped by Roman urban planning, medieval religious construction, and later Baroque additions. What makes the town distinct is not monumental scale, but the consistent use of local materials, harmonious building forms, and the integration of sacred and civic structures into a hillside landscape. This section outlines the main architectural phases and features that define Assisi’s built fabric today.

Assisi’s earliest architectural layer dates to the Roman town of Asisium, established in the 1st century BCE. The most visible Roman structure is the Temple of Minerva, now part of the Church of Santa Maria sopra Minerva on the main square. Additional remains—such as a Roman forum, cisterns, and amphitheater ruins—lie beneath the current city, with portions accessible through the Museo Foro Romano.

The 12th and 13th centuries brought a wave of Romanesque construction using local Subasio limestone. These buildings feature thick stone walls, semicircular arches, and simple yet imposing façades. Key examples include the Cathedral of San Rufino and the Basilica of San Francesco, the latter combining lower and upper Romanesque churches with Gothic elements in its frescoed interior chapels. The Basilica of Santa Chiara, constructed in pink and white stone, also blends Romanesque massing with early Gothic influence.

As Assisi gained independence in the 12th century, it developed civic architecture to support its role as a self-governed commune. The Palazzo del Capitano del Popolo and the Palazzo dei Priori reflect Gothic and Renaissance phases of public construction, featuring crenellated towers, vaulted meeting halls, and civic symbols. The Torre del Popolo, built in 1305, remains a prominent element of the town skyline.

Though Assisi’s medieval fabric remained dominant, later architectural elements appeared in the interiors of churches and in minor urban structures. Baroque chapels, sacristies, and altars were added to older churches during the Counter-Reformation, often without altering their exteriors. The Church of Santa Maria degli Angeli, located in the valley below the historic center, reflects Baroque architecture on a monumental scale and houses the Porziuncola, a small chapel associated with St. Francis.

Assisi’s most important landmarks are its churches, monasteries, and civic buildings—structures that embody both spiritual purpose and architectural evolution. From early Roman temples to 13th-century basilicas and fortified medieval towers, the town presents a layered record of religious devotion, political autonomy, and artistic patronage. This section outlines Assisi’s key architectural sites, organized by category, with details on style, history, and significance.

• Architect: Unknown
• Architectural Style: Romanesque (Lower Church), Gothic (Upper Church)
• Year Built: 1228–1253
• Address: Piazza San Francesco, 06081 Assisi PG, Italy

The most important pilgrimage site in Assisi, this basilica complex includes the Lower Basilica, with frescoes by Cimabue, Lorenzetti, and Martini, and the Upper Basilica, featuring a narrative cycle of St. Francis’ life traditionally attributed to Giotto. The church was built immediately after Francis' canonization and houses his tomb in the crypt. Damaged in the 1997 earthquake, the Basilica reopened to the public in 1999 after major restoration.

• Architect: Attributed to Filippo da Campello
• Architectural Style: Romanesque-Gothic
• Year Built: Begun 1257
• Address: Piazza Santa Chiara, 06081 Assisi PG, Italy

Built over the remains of the Church of San Giorgio, this basilica houses the remains of St. Clare, founder of the Poor Clares. Its pink and white limestone façade, flying buttresses, and large rose window make it a distinctive presence. Inside, visitors can see 13th-century frescoes and the original San Damiano Crucifix.

• Architect: Galeazzo Alessi (primary design)
• Architectural Style: Baroque
• Year Built: 1569–1679
• Address: Piazza Porziuncola 1, 06081 Santa Maria degli Angeli (Assisi), Italy

This monumental basilica was built to enclose two sacred sites associated with St. Francis: the Porziuncola, the tiny chapel he restored, and the Transito, the cell where he died. Located in the valley below the historic center, it remains a major site for Franciscan pilgrims and houses artworks and relics tied to the saint’s final days.

• Architectural Style: Romanesque
• Year Built: Rebuilt early 13th century (original structure older)
• Address: Via San Damiano, 06081 Assisi PG, Italy

A small church just outside the town walls, San Damiano is traditionally identified as the place where St. Francis received a divine call to "rebuild my church." It was later given to St. Clare and her order. The site features a cloister, modest frescoes, and views over the Umbrian valley.

• Architect: Attributed to Giovanni da Gubbio (façade)
• Architectural Style: Romanesque (façade), Renaissance and Baroque (interior)
• Year Built: 12th century façade; 16th-century renovations
• Address: Piazza San Rufino, 06081 Assisi PG, Italy

This cathedral is where both St. Francis and St. Clare were baptized. It features a Romanesque façade with three rose windows and sculpted portals, while the interior was remodeled in the 16th century. The crypt incorporates remains of a Roman cistern and houses the relics of San Rufino, the town’s patron saint.

• Architectural Style: Baroque
• Year Built: Built 1615
• Address: Via Santa Maria delle Rose, 06081 Assisi PG, Italy

Erected over the presumed site of St. Francis’ parental home, this small church was sponsored by King Philip III of Spain. It features a central plan and ornate interior decoration. Outside stands a bronze statue of Francis' parents.

• Architectural Style: Medieval vernacular
• Year Built: Date unknown (possibly 12th century origin)
• Address: Via Santa Maria delle Rose, 06081 Assisi PG, Italy

A small chapel said to mark the birthplace of St. Francis. Its simple interior and intimate size make it a site of quiet devotion. It is located near Chiesa Nuova and often visited alongside it.

• Architectural Style: Monastic medieval
• Year Built: Hermitage used from early 13th century
• Address: Via Eremo delle Carceri, Mount Subasio, 06081 Assisi PG, Italy

Located in a forested gorge above Assisi, this hermitage was one of Francis’ favorite retreats. The small complex includes a chapel, cells, and caves used by early Franciscans. Surrounded by oak woods and silence, it remains a site for solitude and prayer.

Architectural Style: Romanesque

Year Built: Original 10th century; rebuilt 13th century

Address: Via Borgo San Pietro, 06081 Assisi PG, Italy

Built by the Benedictines, this church features a rectangular façade with three rose windows. The interior houses a Gothic chapel with a triptych by Matteo da Gualdo. It is one of the quieter, less-visited churches in Assisi, with a solid medieval presence.

• Architectural Style: Romanesque with early Christian elements
• Year Built: 11th century
• Address: Piazza Vescovado, 06081 Assisi PG, Italy

Likely the earliest surviving church in Assisi and possibly the town’s first cathedral. It features simple Romanesque architecture with frescoes and a notable apse. Located near the Diocesan Museum, it provides insight into the city’s pre-Franciscan Christian history.

• Architectural Style: Romanesque
• Year Built: 12th century
• Address: Via Santo Stefano, 06081 Assisi PG, Italy

Among Assisi’s oldest churches, Santo Stefano is a small, austere building with a stone façade and arched portal. Its simplicity and age give it a quiet, contemplative character. According to local tradition, its bells rang on their own when St. Francis died.

• Architect: Reconstruction by Cardinal Albornoz; later additions by Pius II and Paul III
• Architectural Style: Medieval military fortress
• Year Built: Original Roman fortification; rebuilt 1366, expanded 1458–1535
• Address: Via della Rocca, 06081 Assisi PG, Italy

A massive fortress overlooking the town, the Rocca offers panoramic views of Assisi and the Umbrian plain. Built to assert Papal power, it has polygonal towers, bastions, and underground passageways. Emperor Frederick I is believed to have spent time here as a child.

• Architectural Style: Roman Imperial
• Year Built: Early 1st century CE
• Address: Via Anfiteatro Romano, 06081 Assisi PG, Italy

Though much of the amphitheater is gone, its elliptical footprint is visible in the layout of surrounding medieval houses. A surviving travertine arch and interior garden mark the ancient arena’s location.

Architectural Style: Medieval and Renaissance civic architecture

Year Built: 13th–15th centuries

Address: Piazza del Comune, 06081 Assisi PG, Italy

Assisi’s central square includes the Palazzo del Capitano del Popolo (13th century), the Torre del Popolo (1305), and the Palazzo dei Priori (1275–1493). The Fountain of the Three Lions (16th century) and a number of cafes make it the town’s civic and social heart.

• Architectural Style: Roman temple exterior; Baroque church interior
• Year Built: Late 1st century BCE (temple); converted in 1539
• Address: Piazza del Comune, 06081 Assisi PG, Italy

Originally a Roman temple dedicated to Minerva, it now houses the Church of Santa Maria sopra Minerva. The exterior retains six Corinthian columns and classical entablature, while the interior is an ornate Baroque chapel.

• Architectural Style: Romanesque crypt
• Year Built: Crypt: 12th century
• Address: Beneath Piazza del Comune, Assisi

The only surviving part of a demolished church. Here, St. Francis and Bernard of Quintavalle are said to have sought Gospel guidance before founding the Franciscan Order.

• Architectural Style: Romanesque
• Year Built: Founded 10th century; crypt: late 11th century
• Address: Monte Subasio, near Eremo delle Carceri

This remote abbey, now largely in ruins, includes a preserved Romanesque crypt and fragments of medieval masonry. It reflects Assisi’s early monastic presence before the rise of Franciscanism.

Assisi’s compact layout and pedestrian-friendly streets make it ideal for a self-guided walking tour. Most major landmarks are within a 1.5 km radius, with gentle climbs, narrow alleys, and sweeping views across the Umbrian countryside. This walking route starts at the Porta San Francesco (west entrance) and loops through religious, civic, and historical sites before ending at the Basilica of Santa Maria degli Angeli in the valley below.

Suggested Route:

• Start: Porta San Francesco

The main entrance for visitors arriving from the west side of town, near parking and bus drop-off points.

• Basilica of San Francesco

Explore both the Lower and Upper Churches, the tomb of St. Francis, and il Sacro Convento. Allow at least one hour.

• Via San Francesco

Walk uphill along this central street, lined with local shops, bakeries, and stone houses. A good place for coffee or lunch.

• Piazza del Comune

Assisi’s civic heart. Highlights include the Temple of Minerva, Torre del Popolo, Palazzo dei Priori, and the 13th-century fountain.

• Cathedral of San Rufino

Head east to visit the Romanesque cathedral where St. Francis and St. Clare were baptized.

• Basilica of Santa Chiara

Continue southeast to see the pink-and-white stone basilica housing the tomb of St. Clare and the San Damiano Crucifix.

• Church of San Damiano (Optional detour)

From Santa Chiara, walk 15–20 minutes downhill along a scenic country road to the small Romanesque church where Francis heard his call and later gave to Clare. Return to the town center by the same route or taxi.

• Chiesa Nuova and Piccolino Chapel

Back in the old town, visit the presumed childhood home and birthplace of St. Francis.

• Rocca Maggiore (Optional climb)

For panoramic views, hike up to the fortress above town. Allow extra time for this steep ascent.

• Walk down to Santa Maria degli Angeli

Exit the old city via Porta Nuova or Porta Moiano, then follow Via Patrono d’Italia downhill for 35–45 minutes (or take the C-line bus). End the tour at the Basilica of Santa Maria degli Angeli, home of the Porziuncola and Transito.

Assisi is located in the region of Umbria, central Italy, about 25 km east of Perugia and 180 km north of Rome. Though the old town sits atop a hill, Assisi is accessible by train, car, and regional bus. Most visitors arrive via Santa Maria degli Angeli, the modern suburb in the valley below the historic center.

Assisi’s train station is located in Santa Maria degli Angeli, about 4 km from the old town.

From Rome Termini: 2–2.5 hours via regional trains with a transfer in Foligno

From Florence: 2.5–3 hours via regional trains with a transfer in Terontola

From Perugia: 20–30 minutes by direct train

From the station, local bus line C (CAP) or a short taxi ride takes you uphill to the city center.

Regional buses run between Perugia, Spello, and Foligno to Assisi’s old town or the train station. This is a budget-friendly but slower option, especially on weekends and holidays.

Driving to Assisi is straightforward via the SS75 highway from Perugia or Foligno. Note that vehicles are restricted in the historic center.

Recommended parking: Parcheggio Matteotti (north gate) or Parcheggio Giovanni Paolo II (west gate near the Basilica). Both offer escalator access into the town.

Spring (April–June) and autumn (September–October) offer mild weather and fewer crowds.

Avoid peak pilgrimage periods around October 4, the Feast of St. Francis, unless attending specific religious events.

Modest clothing is required inside all churches. Shoulders should be covered, and shorts or short skirts are discouraged.

Some sites, including the Basilica of San Francesco, may enforce this rule more strictly than others.

Assisi’s old town is built on a slope with cobblestone streets and staircases.

While many major sites offer ramps or elevators, visitors with mobility issues should plan ahead or arrange local transport (e.g., taxis from Santa Maria degli Angeli).

Italian is spoken everywhere, but most museum staff and hotel workers speak basic English.

Some religious sites offer English-language leaflets or guided tours.

Restaurants often close between lunch and dinner (typically 2:30–7:00 PM).

Make reservations for dinner, especially on weekends or during festivals.

Flash photography is not allowed inside most churches, and some prohibit photos entirely (e.g., Basilica of San Francesco).

Respect signs and quiet zones, especially near crypts or chapels.

Assisi is safe, even at night, but streets can be slippery in rain.

Wear sturdy shoes for walking, especially when visiting sites outside town like Eremo delle Carceri or San Damiano.

Yes. While it is a major pilgrimage site, Assisi offers exceptional medieval architecture, scenic views, Roman ruins, and frescoes by Cimabue and Giotto. It's a rewarding destination for art, history, and landscape enthusiasts.

A full day is enough to visit the main churches and walk the historic center. Two days allow for side trips to San Damiano, Eremo delle Carceri, and the Rocca Maggiore.

Not required, but guided tours are available and can help interpret the town’s complex religious art and layered history. Self-guided walking is easy, with many signs in both Italian and English.

Yes, but be prepared for a long day. Rome to Assisi takes about 2.5 hours by train, with a transfer. Florence requires more time (around 3 hours). For a more relaxed visit, an overnight stay is recommended.

Assisi shares Umbrian culinary traditions: truffles, cured meats, farro, lentils, and hearty soups. Local restaurants serve rustic dishes such as strangozzi pasta, porchetta, and wild boar stew. Olive oil and wine from nearby hills are also staples.

While not a major wine destination, Assisi is close to wine-producing areas such as Torgiano and Montefalco. Some agriturismi and enotecas offer tastings of Umbrian reds and whites.

Most churches are free, but some areas—like the crypt of San Francesco or certain museums—may charge a small fee or require timed entry. Donations are appreciated.

Yes. It’s centrally located and connected by road and rail to Perugia, Spello, Spoleto, and Gubbio. Accommodations range from convent stays to boutique hotels.