Cultural and Historical Journey in Assisi

Whispers of Faith and Stone

Today was a day of profound spiritual reflection, a journey into the rustic heart of Assisi, where the stones themselves seem to whisper tales of faith and devotion. Moses and I set out early, eager to explore the sacred sites that have drawn pilgrims for centuries. It's days like these that remind me why we chose Assisi for our summer retreat – a place where history and spirituality intertwine so beautifully.

Our first stop was San Damiano, a place so pivotal in the lives of both St. Francis and St. Clare. As we walked along the path leading to the church, the olive groves shimmered in the morning sun, the air thick with the scent of wildflowers and warm earth. It was easy to imagine Francis, nearly eight centuries ago, receiving his divine calling within these very walls.

San Damiano is more than just a church; it's a sanctuary of simplicity. The architecture is unpretentious, almost humble, which only adds to its profound sense of peace. Moses and I wandered through the cloister, its ancient stones worn smooth by countless footsteps. We paused in the refectory, where St. Clare and her sisters once shared their simple meals, their lives dedicated to prayer and service. I couldn't help but think of Hope, and the choices young women make today, so different from the path Clare chose, yet still filled with the potential for grace and purpose.

The small chapel was particularly moving. It was here, in 1205, that St. Francis heard the voice of Christ telling him, Francis, go and repair my church which, as you see, is all in ruins!. It’s incredible to stand in the very spot where such a momentous event occurred. The original crucifix that spoke to Francis now resides in the Basilica of Santa Chiara, but a replica hangs in its place, radiating the same powerful message of renewal and devotion.

The stones of San Damiano whisper stories of unwavering faith and profound humility.

Discover the serene beauty and rich history of San Damiano, a sanctuary in Assisi that connects travelers with the spirituality of St. Francis.

After San Damiano, we decided to venture further off the beaten path to Eremo di Santa Maria Giacobbe. This hermitage, nestled into the mountainside, promised a more secluded and contemplative experience. The drive itself was an adventure, the narrow road winding through dense forests and offering breathtaking views of the Umbrian valley. I was grateful Moses was behind the wheel, his steady hand and calm demeanor a comfort as we navigated the hairpin turns.

The final stretch to the hermitage required a bit of a hike, a steep climb along a rocky path. The sun was high in the sky, and the air was still, filled with the buzzing of cicadas. As we ascended, I felt a sense of anticipation building within me. This wasn't just a tourist stop; it was a pilgrimage, a chance to connect with the spiritual essence of this land.

Reaching the Eremo di Santa Maria Giacobbe was like stepping back in time. The hermitage is built into the side of a mountain, a cluster of ancient stone buildings clinging to the rock face. According to local tradition, the hermitage is dedicated to Maria Jacobi, one of the women who, after witnessing the Passion of Jesus, retreated here for penance. The site dates back to around 1200, and the sense of history is palpable.

The church itself is small and simple, its interior adorned with frescoes that depict scenes from the life of Christ and the saints. The air was cool and still, the silence broken only by the occasional chirping of birds. I lit a candle and sat in quiet contemplation, thinking of my mother and the strength she always found in her faith, even in the face of adversity. It's moments like these, far from the hustle and bustle of Brampton, that allow me to reconnect with my roots and find a sense of inner peace.


Discover the serene beauty and spiritual heritage of Eremo di Santa Maria Giacobbe, a hidden gem in the Umbrian hills.

We spent a couple of hours exploring the hermitage and its surroundings. The views from the mountain were simply stunning, a panoramic vista of rolling hills, vineyards, and distant villages. I could see why Maria Jacobi chose this place for her retreat – a place of solitude, beauty, and profound spiritual energy.

For breakfast, we stopped at Ristorante-Osteria - Enoteca San Pietro. It was a delightful start to the day. The staff was patient and welcoming, the atmosphere jovial, and the food was delicious and reasonably priced. Moses enjoyed a hearty plate of tagliatelle, while I savored a simple yet flavorful focaccia. It's these small, authentic experiences that make traveling so rewarding.


Experience authentic Italian cuisine with gluten-free options at Ristorante-Osteria - Enoteca San Pietro in the heart of Assisi.

Lunch was at Ghiotto Ristorante - Assisi, and it was an absolute treat. The restaurant had a high rating and the food was amazing. I had some delicious pasta, and Moses enjoyed a flavorful meat dish. The service was excellent, and the ambiance was cozy and inviting. I highly recommend it to anyone visiting Assisi.


Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Ghiotto Ristorante in Assisi—where every meal is a celebration of local flavors and tradition.

In the late afternoon, as the sun began to dip towards the horizon, we stopped by Gran Caffè for a quick refreshment. The reviews online were mixed, but we decided to give it a try. While the location was convenient and the decor fancy, the service was indeed a bit slow, as some reviewers had mentioned. I had a macchiato, and Moses tried a cannoli. It wasn't the best coffee or pastry we've had in Italy, but it was a pleasant enough way to rest our feet before heading back to Fontebella.


Experience the elegance of Italian café culture at Gran Caffè in Assisi, where premium coffee and exquisite pastries await.

For dinner, we chose Le Terrazze di Properzio, and it was the perfect ending to a perfect day. The restaurant is known for its stunning views and delicious food, and it certainly lived up to its reputation. We sat on the terrace, overlooking the valley as the sun set, painting the sky in hues of orange, pink, and purple. The service was attentive, and the food was simply divine. I savored every bite of my homemade pasta, while Moses raved about his grilled lamb. As we sipped our wine and watched the stars begin to twinkle, I felt a deep sense of gratitude for this beautiful day and for the chance to share it with my beloved Moses.


Discover Le Terrazze di Properzio: where exquisite Italian cuisine meets breathtaking views in the heart of Assisi.

As we walked back to our hotel, hand in hand, I couldn't help but feel a sense of contentment. Today had been a journey for the soul, a chance to reconnect with the spiritual heart of Assisi and with each other. Tomorrow, we plan to explore the Portico of Monte Frumentario and The Fontana Maggiore, continuing our exploration of this enchanting town.

Before drifting off to sleep, I checked online to see if there were any local events happening. It turns out there's a summer parish picnic at Riverside Park, organized by Saint Francis of Assisi! It's wonderful to see the community coming together. Also, there's a concert tonight, Note di Assisi, featuring MQ4. It sounds lovely, but I think we'll rest up for tomorrow's adventures.

My heart is full, and I’m eager for what tomorrow holds. Goodnight from Assisi.