Visit Assisi – Things to Do & See in the Medieval Town of Assisi | Day Three

Immerse yourself into a full medieval experience in one of the best-preserved medieval towns in Europe.

Before coming to Assisi, I spent two quality days in Perugia and documented it on my blog. If visiting Perugia might interest you, then click here and start planning your journey.

Assisi is a medieval town in the Province of Perugia, located in the hills of the Umbria region. The beautiful city of Asissi and its Basilica of Saint Francis of Assisi, the Basilica di Santa Maria degli Angeli and other Franciscan churches are listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site.

Basilica of Saint Francis of Assisi – Assisi is mostly known as the birthplace of Saint Francis, the founder of the Franciscan Order. There are also numerous references that it was the birthplace of the Latin poet Propertius, who was also born and raised in Umbria.

The background of The Saint Francis of Assisi lies in his spiritual purification. Even though he was a son of a wealthy merchant, he decided to live a completely opposite lifestyle than his father approved of. Saint Francis led a life based on simplicity and mutual respect toward people and nature. He became a worldwide well-known Catholic friar and preacher. After his death, Pope Gregory IX declared Saint Francis a saint and laid the foundation for the Basilica of Saint Francis of Assisi, where Saint Francis is buried.

The basilica is comprised of two churches, the Upper and Lower Basilica, and a crypt. The Lower Church built in the Romanesque style supports the Upper Church which was built in the Gothic style.

Within walking distance of the basilica of Saint Francis of Assisi, you can visit the Basilica of Saint Clare. The basilica is dedicated to Saint Clare of Assisi, a follower of Saint Francis. She founded the Order of Poor Ladies, the second branch of the Franciscan order.

The historic center of the medieval town of Assisi was full of tourists and small shops, hidden restaurants and places with a stunning view of the city. Here, shops are more oriented to selling local crafts such as small religious sculptures, necklaces and many other medieval crafts. The traditional Umbrian cuisine relies strongly on seasonal fresh products that will satisfy everybody.

Assisi is very beautiful for its historical and artistic heritage. When I arrived in Assisi it was a warm and sunny day, compared to my visit to Perugia. It was a perfect day for sightseeing and wandering around.

I loved the peaceful atmosphere in the city, it was a very calm environment. The medieval admirers will surely appreciate the narrow roads, massive wooden gates, the complex and challenging stone buildings, and many other charming features that the city has to offer.