Discovering Assisi - Italy's Hidden Gem

Hello my friends. I want to share our amazing trip to Assisi, a charming town in Italy. During our visit, we explored magnificent Italian churches, strolled through Assisi’s historic streets, enjoyed gelato at an old café and browsed a shop selling beautiful Italian leather bags. The old town of Assisi left a lasting impression on me.

Our journey began in Santa Maria degli Angeli, a quaint part of Assisi located 4 km south of the old town, 218 meters above sea level. This area features the Basilica of Santa Maria degli Angeli, built in the 16th century under Pope Pius V to highlight the importance of the Franciscan Order. This grand basilica, with its impressive dome and three naves surrounded by chapels, was reconstructed after a 19th-century earthquake. Atop the basilica stands a golden bronze Madonna statue crafted by sculptor Calasanti.

Inside the basilica is the Porziuncola Chapel, established by St. Francis of Assisi and considered the birthplace of the Franciscan Order. Nearby lies the Transito Chapel, marking the place where St. Francis passed away. The frescoes here depict his death and funeral.

In the basilica’s shop you can find not just religious items but also cosmetics, herbal remedies and homeopathic products. They sell rose-scented soaps, chocolates and cookies made using traditional recipes, a delightful experience for all senses.

We were also drawn to a display dedicated to Carlo Acutis, a young Italian who passed away at just 15 in 2006. Known for creating Catholic websites despite having no formal training, Carlo is on his way to sainthood, with pilgrims now visiting his tomb in Assisi.

After exploring the basilica, we ventured into the old town of Assisi, a treasure trove of history and spirituality. Highlights include Piazza del Comune, the ancient Temple of Minerva, San Rufino Cathedral and Santa Chiara Basilica. The most iconic site is the Basilica of St. Francis, one of the six major basilicas of the Catholic Church and a major pilgrimage destination.

The Basilica of St. Francis in Assisi is so vast that you can see it from a distance as you approach the old town. Its white structure, surrounded by galleries, harmoniously blends various architectural styles. Construction began in the 10th century, following the death of St. Francis and the basilica has since been recognized as a Unesco World Heritage Site. Though photography inside is prohibited, the experience is unforgettable. If you visit Umbria, this is a must-see. The gothic arches and fresco-covered walls are breathtaking.

The basilica has two levels: the Upper church and the Lower church. The Upper Church features frescoes by Giotto and his school, depicting scenes from the life of St. Francis. The Lower Church is more opulent, adorned with golden details and frescoes by artists such as Cimabue, Pietro Lorenzetti and Simone Martini. Beneath it lies the crypt, where St. Francis’s tomb attracts pilgrims daily.

St. Francis, born into wealth, chose a life of poverty, dedicating himself to helping the sick and repairing churches. He is known as the patron saint of animals and nature. In 1209, Pope Innocent III approved his new order, which later became the Franciscan Order. Just two years after his death, Pope Gregory IX declared him a saint.

After visiting the basilica, we enjoyed desserts at a café nearby. The cozy atmosphere, complete with pastel candy boxes, added a nostalgic touch.

We then wandered through Assisi’s narrow streets, browsing shops along the main road. One store caught my eye: a local brand selling Bayside bags. I couldn’t resist. The bags starting at €180, were stunning, especially a pink one that was perfect for my love of all things pink. They featured a vintage design with natural leather and even built-in anti-theft systems.

Larger travel bags priced at €250-290, were equally stylish and of exceptional quality. You could tell they were premium products just by looking at them.

On our way back we encountered a lively group of pilgrims dressed in orange t-shirts. At the crypt, as they gathered around St. Francis’s tomb for prayer, their water bottles and thermoses fell to the marble floor with a loud clatter, causing a bit of chaos. Later we saw the same group in the square, singing and dancing, such a joyful sight

Pilgrim groups often walk long distances through the challenging hills of Umbria, making their energy and enthusiasm even more inspiring.

That’s all for now about our trip to Assisi. I hope you found it interesting. See you next time.