Cultural and Historical Journey in Assisi

Finding Peace in Assisi's Hidden Corners

Today was a day of quiet reflection and exploration, a chance to step away from the bustling piazzas and delve into the more serene, less-traveled paths of Assisi. It’s easy to get caught up in the grandeur of the basilicas, but sometimes the true spirit of a place is found in its hidden corners, whispering through the trees and echoing in ancient stones. Moses and I set out this morning with a sense of anticipation, eager to discover the natural and spiritual havens that lie just beyond the town's well-trodden routes.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at Antichi Sapori di Assisi. The aroma of freshly baked bread and strong Italian coffee filled the air, a perfect start to a day promising exploration and reflection. I savored a simple yet satisfying meal of crusty bread with local cheese, while Moses enjoyed a hearty frittata. Fuelled and ready, we set off to explore the Bosco di San Francesco.


Discover the serene beauty and historical significance of Bosco di San Francesco in Assisi, a perfect blend of nature and culture.
The walk to the Bosco was pleasant, the morning sun casting a warm glow on the cobblestone streets. As we approached the entrance, I could already feel a shift in the atmosphere. The air was cooler, the sounds of the town fading into a gentle rustling of leaves. The Bosco di San Francesco, a sprawling woodland retreat, is a place where St. Francis himself sought solace and inspiration. It's managed by the FAI (Fondo Ambiente Italiano), a non-profit foundation dedicated to preserving Italy's artistic and natural heritage. The entrance fee was a small price to pay for the tranquility and beauty that awaited us.

As we stepped through the wooden door that marks the entrance, we were immediately enveloped in a world of green. Towering trees formed a canopy overhead, dappling the sunlight that filtered through. The path wound gently downwards, leading us deeper into the heart of the woods. The Bosco is divided into different routes, each highlighting a different aspect of the landscape. We decided to follow the “spiritual route,” hoping to connect with the sense of peace and contemplation that St. Francis must have felt in this very place.

The air was filled with the scent of damp earth and fragrant herbs. Birdsong echoed through the trees, a gentle symphony that accompanied our every step. We passed ancient olive groves, their gnarled branches reaching towards the sky like supplicating arms. Here and there, small shrines and statues peeked out from the undergrowth, reminders of the deep spiritual significance of this place. I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe and reverence, as if we were walking on hallowed ground.

One of the highlights of the Bosco is Michelangelo Pistoletto's “Third Paradise,” a land art installation that symbolizes the union between heaven and earth. It consists of 121 olive trees arranged in three large, tangential circles. Climbing the 14th-century tower offered a panoramic view of this masterpiece, a breathtaking sight that truly captured the essence of harmony between man and nature. We took our time here, soaking in the beauty and reflecting on the artist's message of peaceful coexistence.

The best view comes after the hardest climb.

After our time in the Bosco di San Francesco, we were both feeling rejuvenated and at peace. We decided to take a leisurely lunch at Ristorante Medioevo Assisi.


Discover the rich flavors of traditional Italian cuisine at Ristorante Medioevo Assisi, where history meets exceptional dining experiences.
The restaurant, as its name suggests, had a charming medieval ambiance, with stone walls and rustic wooden furniture. We shared a plate of tagliatelle al ragu, a classic Umbrian dish, and a hearty bowl of zuppa di lenticchie. The food was simple but delicious, a perfect complement to the day's natural and spiritual experiences.

With our appetites sated, we set off to explore our next destination: the Chiesa di San Pietro.


Discover the serene beauty of Chiesa di San Pietro in Assisi, a splendid church embodying rich history and breathtaking architecture.
Located on the edge of the historic center, the Abbey of San Pietro, is a Benedictine abbey that exudes a sense of history and tranquility. The Abbey, along with other Franciscan sites and the town of Assisi itself, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a testament to its cultural and historical significance.

The church itself is a beautiful example of Romanesque-Umbrian architecture, with a striking facade and a serene interior. As we stepped inside, we were immediately struck by the sense of peace and reverence that permeated the space. The high ceilings and stained-glass windows created a play of light and shadow, adding to the ethereal atmosphere. I was particularly moved by the ancient crypt, which dates back to the 11th century. Stepping down into this dimly lit space felt like stepping back in time, connecting with the generations of monks who had prayed and meditated here. The Abbey has undergone several transformations over the centuries, reflecting the changing architectural styles and religious practices.

According to records, the abbey was founded by the Benedictines in the 10th century. The church's interior is adorned with beautiful frescoes, some dating back to the 13th century. These damaged frescoes are attributed to Pace di Bartolo, and they depict the Annunciation, the Madonna and Child, and St. Victorinus. The relics of St. Victorinus were translated from San Vittorino to San Pietro at an unknown date and were preserved under its high altar until 1642.

We spent some time wandering through the church, admiring the artwork and soaking in the peaceful atmosphere. I lit a candle for my mother, offering a silent prayer for her well-being. It was a moment of quiet reflection, a chance to connect with something larger than myself. The Abbey of San Pietro is not as well-known as the Basilica di San Francesco, but it is a hidden gem that offers a glimpse into Assisi's rich spiritual history.

Before heading back to Fontebella, we stopped by Ricordi Di Assisi, a charming little shop.


Discover the heart of Assisi with unique souvenirs that capture the essence of this historic Italian gem at Ricordi Di Assisi.
I picked up a few small souvenirs for Hope and my granddaughters – a hand-painted ceramic tile depicting St. Francis, a small wooden cross, and some postcards of Assisi. I always like to bring back something to remind us of our travels, a tangible connection to the places we've visited.

As the sun began to set, we made our way to Taverna dei Consoli for dinner.


Discover authentic Italian flavors at Taverna dei Consoli in Assisi – where every meal is a celebration of Mediterranean cuisine.
The restaurant had been recommended to us by several locals, and we were eager to try it out. The atmosphere was cozy and inviting, with exposed stone walls and flickering candlelight. We started with a shared plate of bruschetta, topped with fresh tomatoes, basil, and olive oil. For our main courses, I ordered the grilled lamb chops, while Moses opted for the wild boar stew. The food was delicious, hearty and flavorful, and the service was impeccable.

“Travel is the only thing you buy that makes you richer.” I feel so blessed to be able to experience these beautiful places with my beloved Moses.

As we walked back to Fontebella, hand in hand, I couldn't help but reflect on the day's experiences.


Experience the charm of Assisi at Fontebella, a 4-star hotel offering comfort, exquisite dining, and proximity to historic landmarks.
We had explored the natural beauty of the Bosco di San Francesco, connected with the spiritual history of the Chiesa di San Pietro, and savored the culinary delights of Assisi. It had been a day of quiet reflection and simple pleasures, a reminder that the true essence of travel lies not in ticking off famous landmarks, but in immersing oneself in the local culture and connecting with the spirit of a place.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit the Pinacoteca Comunale Palazzo Vallemani and Palazzo Bonacquisti. I am looking forward to another day of discovery, eager to uncover more of Assisi's hidden treasures. I am also excited to try the Caveau del Capitano - Ristorante&Enoteca for breakfast, Ristorante degli Orti for lunch and Ristorante Taverna de l'Arco for dinner. Before dinner, we will visit Bar Giardino San Lorenzo for drinks. I am sure that tomorrow will be another day filled with beautiful memories.

Until then, buona notte from Assisi.