Cultural and Historical Journey in Assisi
Day 2: Finding Serenity in Assisi: A Day of Spiritual Heights and Wine Tasting
Discover Assisi's spiritual heart at Eremo delle Carceri and Mount Subasio, then indulge in local wines. A day of peace and pleasure!
A Day of Reflection and Delight
Today, Assisi revealed a different facet of its charm, one that resonated deeply with my soul. It was a day of seeking higher ground, both physically and spiritually, and then celebrating the simple joys of life with a taste of local flavors. Moses and I set out early, eager to explore the natural and spiritual landscapes that lie just beyond the town's historic center.
Our first stop was the Eremo delle Carceri, a place of profound peace nestled on the slopes of Mount Subasio. The drive there was beautiful, winding through lush greenery as the sun began to climb in the sky. Arriving at the Eremo, I immediately felt a sense of tranquility wash over me. The air was crisp and clean, carrying the scent of pine and damp earth. The hermitage itself is a collection of simple stone structures built around caves where St. Francis and his followers retreated for prayer and meditation. It’s incredible to think that such a serene place has been a sanctuary for centuries. The name 'Carceri,' meaning 'prisons,' reflects the voluntary seclusion embraced by those seeking deeper connection with God. I found myself reflecting on my own journey, the challenges and triumphs that have shaped my faith and my commitment to community service.
Discover the serene beauty of Eremo delle Carceri, a spiritual sanctuary nestled in the hills of Assisi, rich in history and natural tranquility.
Walking through the ancient oak forest surrounding the Eremo, I could almost feel the presence of St. Francis. Moses and I explored the grottoes where the friars prayed, each one a testament to their devotion. We even saw the spot where St. Francis is said to have spoken to the birds, a charming reminder of his deep connection with nature. The entire experience was incredibly moving, a powerful reminder of the importance of simplicity and contemplation in our lives.
Sometimes, the greatest journeys are not about where you go, but who you become along the way.
After our time at the Eremo delle Carceri, we decided to venture further up Mount Subasio. The views from the mountain were breathtaking, a panoramic vista of the Umbrian countryside stretching out before us. The rolling hills, dotted with vineyards and olive groves, were bathed in the warm glow of the sun. We took a leisurely hike along one of the many trails, enjoying the fresh air and the stunning scenery. It was a welcome contrast to the bustling streets of Assisi, a chance to reconnect with nature and find some inner peace.
Experience the breathtaking views and rich biodiversity of Mount Subasio, a natural park and wildlife haven near Assisi, Italy.
For lunch, we headed to Hostaria Terra Chiama. This charming restaurant is known for its authentic Umbrian cuisine and warm, welcoming atmosphere. As someone who loves to cook traditional Ugandan dishes, I appreciate the dedication to preserving local culinary traditions. We started with some bruschetta, topped with fresh tomatoes and basil, followed by handmade pasta with truffle sauce. The flavors were rich and satisfying, a true taste of Umbria. Moses, who usually prefers simpler meals, was equally impressed. The owner greeted us warmly, making us feel like we were dining in a family home.
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Hostaria Terra Chiama in Assisi—where tradition meets flavor in every dish.
In the late afternoon, we decided to indulge in a bit of wine tasting at Bibenda Assisi Wine Tasting & Gourmet Food, Olive Oil and Chocolate Tastings. This was a delightful experience, as we sampled some of the region's finest wines, each with its own unique character. Nila, the owner, was incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about Umbrian wines. She guided us through the tasting, explaining the nuances of each vintage and sharing stories about the local winemakers. As someone who enjoys learning about different cultures, I found her insights fascinating. We also sampled some local cheeses and cured meats, perfectly complementing the wines. The atmosphere was cozy and inviting, a perfect way to end a day of spiritual exploration and natural beauty.
Discover the exquisite wines and gourmet flavors of Italy at Bibenda Assisi, a must-visit wine bar in the heart of Assisi.
For dinner, we chose Ristorante Bar San Francesco. Located near the Basilica, it offered stunning views of the illuminated facade. We enjoyed a delicious meal of traditional Umbrian dishes, reflecting on the day's experiences. The lamb was cooked to perfection, and the pasta was simply divine. The service was attentive and friendly, adding to the overall charm of the evening. It was the perfect way to cap off a day filled with reflection, natural beauty, and culinary delights.
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Ristorante Bar San Francesco in Assisi - where every dish tells a story.
As we walked back to Fontebella, the stars began to emerge in the night sky. I felt a deep sense of gratitude for the experiences of the day, for the opportunity to connect with the spiritual heart of Assisi and to savor the simple pleasures of life with my beloved Moses. Tomorrow, we plan to explore the Basilica di Santa Chiara and the Cathedral of San Rufino. I am eager to learn more about the stories and traditions of this enchanting town.

Experience the charm of Assisi at Fontebella, a 4-star hotel offering comfort, exquisite dining, and proximity to historic landmarks.
Reflecting on today, I realize that travel is about more than just seeing new places; it's about discovering new aspects of ourselves. It's about finding moments of peace and inspiration, about connecting with different cultures, and about creating memories that will last a lifetime. And as I look forward to the days ahead, I am filled with a sense of excitement and anticipation for what Assisi has yet to reveal. I am also looking forward to visiting Negozio Il Lavandeto Di Assisi Via Portica 16 tomorrow.
The events of today reminded me of something my mother used to say back in Kyenjojo: Obuntu bulamu, which means, Humanity is wealth. It is in these connections with nature, with history, and with each other that we find the true treasures of life.
Explore the rich history and spiritual charm of Assisi, Italy, with a 12-day cultural journey staying at the charming Fontebella hotel.
Meet this Featured Explorer
-
Occupation: Community Outreach Coordinator at a local non-profit organization supporting immigrant families.
-
Country: Canada
-
Age: 52
Hello everyone, I'm Florence Nalubega, a Ugandan-Canadian travel blogger with a passion for exploring the world and sharing my experiences with you. I believe that travel is more than just visiting new places; it's about connecting with different cultures, learning from others, and creating lasting memories. Join me on my adventures as I share my insights, tips, and stories from around the globe.
- Ugandan history and culture
- Immigrant rights and advocacy
- Multiculturalism in Canada
- Gardening
- African literature
Find Similar Travel Diaries
Explore locations from this diary
-
Fontebella
Experience the charm of Assisi at Fontebella, a 4-star hotel offering comfort, exquisite dining, and proximity to historic landmarks.
-
Eremo delle Carceri
Discover the serene beauty of Eremo delle Carceri, a spiritual sanctuary nestled in the hills of Assisi, rich in history and natural tranquility.
-
Mount Subasio
Experience the breathtaking views and rich biodiversity of Mount Subasio, a natural park and wildlife haven near Assisi, Italy.
-
Ristorante La Stalla
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Ristorante La Stalla in Assisi - a perfect blend of local flavors and stunning views.
-
Hostaria Terra Chiama
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Hostaria Terra Chiama in Assisi—where tradition meets flavor in every dish.
-
Ristorante Bar San Francesco
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Ristorante Bar San Francesco in Assisi - where every dish tells a story.
-
Bibenda Assisi Wine Tasting & Gourmet Food, Olive Oil and Chocolate Tastings
Discover the exquisite wines and gourmet flavors of Italy at Bibenda Assisi, a must-visit wine bar in the heart of Assisi.