Family Adventure in Historic Assisi

Day 6: A Journey Through Assisi's Soulful Corners

Today, the sixth day of our family adventure in Assisi, was a day of quiet reflection and surprising discoveries. Leaving the familiar paths behind, we sought out the hidden corners of this historic town, each with its own story to tell. It was a day that reminded me why I love to travel – for those unexpected moments of beauty and connection that stay with you long after you've returned home.

Our morning began with a hearty breakfast at Ristorante Taverna de l'Arco. The aroma of freshly baked bread and strong Italian coffee filled the air, setting the perfect tone for the day ahead. Astrid, Lasse, and I enjoyed a simple meal of local cheeses, cured meats, and crusty bread, fueling up for our day of exploration. The restaurant's cozy atmosphere and friendly staff made it a delightful start to our Assisi experience.


Discover authentic Italian flavors at Ristorante Taverna de l'Arco in Assisi - a must-visit for food lovers seeking Mediterranean delights.

Our first stop was the Chiesa di San Pietro. Tucked away in Piazza San Pietro, this church stands as a testament to Assisi's rich history. Built in the 10th century by Benedictine monks, its Romanesque façade, crafted from the distinctive pink stone of Mount Subasio, exudes a sense of timelessness. The three rose windows above the portals draw the eye upward, inviting contemplation. Inside, the church's simplicity is striking, a deliberate choice made during a 1954 restoration that stripped away the Baroque altars to reveal the original stone structure. I found myself drawn to the Gothic tombs near the entrance, each a silent reminder of the lives that have shaped this town. The adjacent abbey, still home to a community of Benedictine monks, adds to the sense of peace and continuity that pervades this sacred space.


Discover the serene beauty of Chiesa di San Pietro in Assisi, a splendid church embodying rich history and breathtaking architecture.

Leaving the Chiesa di San Pietro, we made our way towards the Piazza del Comune, where a hidden gem awaited us: La Volta Pinta. This painted vault, commissioned in 1556 by Governor Marcello Tuti, is a corridor adorned with grotesque frescoes by Raffaello del Colle. Stepping beneath the arch, we were immediately transported to a world of whimsical and fantastical imagery. The frescoes, a riot of color and imagination, depict a bizarre mix of mythological figures, animals, and satirical scenes.


Explore La Volta Pinta in Assisi, Italy – a historical landmark that embodies the rich cultural heritage and architectural beauty of this enchanting town.

The beauty of travel lies not just in seeing new places, but in discovering new ways of seeing.

It's easy to miss this unassuming entrance, but once inside, the artistry and historical significance of La Volta Pinta are undeniable. Lasse was particularly fascinated by the animal figures, while Astrid and I marveled at the intricate details and the sheer creativity of the artist. The experience reminded me of my days as a furniture restorer, where discovering the hidden layers of a piece often revealed unexpected stories and artistic flourishes. It's a reminder that beauty can be found in the most unexpected places, if only we take the time to look.

For lunch, we decided to try Antica Norcineria Umbra. This charming spot is known for its traditional Umbrian cuisine, particularly its cured meats and cheeses. We shared a platter of local specialties, savoring the rich flavors and textures of the region. The restaurant's cozy atmosphere and friendly service made it a perfect place to relax and recharge after our morning explorations. It was a reminder of the simple pleasures in life – good food, good company, and a beautiful setting.


Discover authentic Umbrian cuisine at Antica Norcineria Umbra in Assisi - where tradition meets taste.

In the afternoon, we ventured to the Basilica di Santa Maria degli Angeli. Located in the plain at the foot of Assisi, this basilica is a major pilgrimage site, encompassing the Porziuncola, the small church where St. Francis understood his vocation and founded the Franciscan movement. The sheer size of the basilica is awe-inspiring, a testament to the importance of this site to the Franciscan order.


Explore the Basilica di Santa Maria degli Angeli, a spiritual haven with stunning architecture and rich history, nestled in the heart of Italy.

Inside, the basilica is divided into a central nave and two lateral aisles, flanked by chapels. The Porziuncola itself is located directly under the dome, a simple and unadorned space that stands in stark contrast to the grandeur of the basilica. Stepping inside the Porziuncola, I felt a sense of peace and reverence wash over me. It was here, in this humble space, that St. Francis embraced poverty and dedicated his life to serving the poor. The experience was particularly poignant for me, as I've always admired St. Francis' commitment to simplicity and compassion.

We also took some time to explore the Rose Garden and the Rose Chapel, each with its own unique story to tell. The Rose Garden is said to be the place where St. Francis rolled in thorns to resist temptation, and the roses that grow here are thornless as a result. The Rose Chapel commemorates the miracle of the roses, when St. Francis transformed thorns into roses to prove the power of faith. These stories, passed down through generations, add to the spiritual significance of this place.

As evening approached, we made our way back to the heart of Assisi, drawn by the promise of a delightful dinner at Ristorante Pizzeria Il Menestrello. This charming restaurant, nestled in a historic building with Roman-era stone walls, offered a warm and inviting atmosphere. We settled into a cozy corner and ordered a variety of dishes, including traditional Umbrian pasta and, of course, pizza. The food was delicious, the service was friendly, and the ambiance was perfect for a relaxing family meal.


Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Ristorante Pizzeria Il Menestrello in Assisi—delicious pizzas and traditional dishes await!

After dinner, we decided to indulge in a nightcap at Vino Osteria Winebar. This cozy wine bar offered a wide selection of local and regional wines, as well as a variety of snacks and appetizers. We sampled a few different wines, savoring the flavors of Umbria and reflecting on the day's adventures. The atmosphere was relaxed and convivial, a perfect way to end our day of exploration.


Experience authentic Italian cuisine and an extensive wine selection at Vino Osteria Winebar, a must-visit spot in Assisi for food and wine lovers.

As I sit here now, writing this blog post, I'm filled with a sense of gratitude for the experiences we've had today. Assisi has a way of touching your soul, of reminding you of the importance of simplicity, compassion, and connection. It's a place where history, art, and spirituality come together in a unique and powerful way.

Tomorrow marks the final day of our family adventure in Assisi. We plan to visit the Fontana Maggiore, the Assisi Diocesan Museum, and the Church of Santa Maria sopra Minerva. We'll also take some time to do some souvenir shopping at Arte Assisi dal 1947, before enjoying our final meals at Ristorante Buca di San Francesco - ASSISI for breakfast, Mangiar Divino for lunch and La Fortezza Restaurant for dinner. I'm looking forward to exploring these final gems of Assisi, and to sharing our experiences with you all.

Before I close for the night, I must share a thought that keeps returning to me: the true essence of travel lies not just in seeing new landscapes or tasting exotic dishes, but in the quiet moments of reflection, in the unexpected encounters, and in the connections we make along the way. These are the moments that enrich our lives, that broaden our perspectives, and that stay with us long after we've returned home. And it is with this spirit that I look forward to our final day in Assisi.

Until tomorrow,
Andrea