A DAY TRIP TO ASSISI FROM EL MARSAM

Assisi is the birthplace of St. Francis, patron saint of Italy and as such draws 4 to 5 million visitors each year.  After the Vatican, it is the most visited shrine in Italy, attracting pilgrims and art lovers from all over the world.   Many come to pray.  All come to see the incomparable frescoes of Cimabue and Giotto in the Basilica of St. Francis and to enjoy a stroll in this near perfect Umbrian town of pink and pale-gray stone buildings. Also of interest in Assisi are the Church of St. Clare, the Duomo, and the Roman Temple of Minerva.  A walk from the eastern gate to the famous Basilica will take you past delightful shops, cafés, and restaurants. 

Before arriving in  Assisi, it is inspiring to stop at Santa Maria degli Angeli and visit the Chapel of the Porziuncola, a small church rebuilt by St. Francis himself now enshrined in a massive ornate cathedral.   On the outskirts of the city, you can also visit San Damiano, the old church where the saint’s spiritual journey began.    

Overlooking a valley of green fields and olive groves, Assisi has as its backdrop the green slopes of Mt. Subasio.  If you still have energy, visit the Hermitage on Mt. Subasio in the woods where St. Francis and his followers liked to retreat. For hikers, Mt. Subasio is a protected regional park and there are plenty of marked trails to follow starting from the park – maps are available in town.

In an effort to make the discovery of Umbria and Tuscany more convenient and enjoyable for our guests, we have prepared and provide an up-to-date guest booklet with day trip itineraries from El Marsam.  These pages include directions, restaurant and shopping suggestions, and sights to be seen.