Family Adventure in the Heart of Assisi

Whispers of the Past

Today was a day of wandering off the beaten path, a delightful exploration of Assisi's lesser-known treasures. It’s easy to get caught up in the grandeur of the Basilica di San Francesco, but there’s a unique charm in discovering the quiet corners of a city, where history feels more personal and the echoes of the past resonate with a different kind of intimacy. Lena and Sophia were eager to join me, and with our trusty guidebook in hand, we set out to uncover some hidden gems.

Our morning began, as most mornings do here, with breakfast at Ristorante il Frantoio. The view from the terrace is simply breathtaking, and the pastries are the perfect fuel for a day of exploration. It's become a ritual of sorts, a calm before the day's adventures truly begin. The reviews online don't lie; the food and service are truly top-notch.


Discover authentic Italian cuisine at Ristorante il Frantoio in Assisi, where local flavors meet stunning views and warm hospitality.

Our first stop was the Portico of Monte Frumentario. This ancient building, once a public hospital dating back to 1267, now stands as a testament to Assisi's rich history. The portico itself is a beautiful structure, with its seven arches supported by columns adorned with unique Byzantine capitals. Sophia was fascinated by the different leaf patterns carved into each capital, turning it into a little game of 'spot the difference'.


Explore the captivating Portico of Monte Frumentario in Assisi, a historical landmark that offers a glimpse into the town's rich heritage and stunning architecture.

I found myself reflecting on the building's original purpose. It’s humbling to think that this place, now a quiet historical site, once served as a sanctuary for the sick and needy. Later, it became a 'Monte Frumentario', a place where grain was stored and loaned to farmers. It’s a reminder of a time when communities looked out for one another in very practical ways. As someone working in the fast-paced world of travel tech, it’s grounding to connect with such tangible reminders of the past.

Sometimes, the most profound experiences are found not in the grand monuments, but in the quiet corners where history whispers.

After soaking in the history of Monte Frumentario, we strolled towards our next destination: Ponte Marchetto. This medieval bridge, also known as the Bridge of the Wolves, offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The walk there was lovely, the crisp October air filled with the scent of damp earth and fallen leaves. Autumn in Umbria is truly magical; the rolling hills are ablaze with color, and the light has a soft, golden quality that makes everything look like a painting.


Explore Ponte Marchetto, a stunning bridge in Assisi, Italy, where history and nature intertwine, offering breathtaking views and a serene atmosphere.

Sophia was particularly excited about Ponte Marchetto, having heard me describe it as a 'little grand canyon'. She wasn't far off; the bridge spans a deep gorge carved by the Tescio stream, offering breathtaking views of the steep, rocky walls. It’s easy to imagine why it was once called the Bridge of the Wolves; the rugged terrain feels wild and untamed, a stark contrast to the manicured streets of Assisi. The bridge connected Assisi to its eastern countryside, serving as an important route.

Lena, with her architect's eye, was captivated by the bridge's construction. She pointed out the subtle details in the stonework, the way the arches were perfectly aligned to distribute the weight, a testament to the skill of the medieval builders. It’s moments like these that I cherish most when traveling with Lena; she brings a unique perspective to everything we see, enriching the experience for all of us.

For lunch, we decided to try Ristorante Pizzeria Monte Frumentario Nuova Gestione 2024. While the online reviews were mixed , we were drawn in by the promise of outdoor seating and beautiful views. The location was indeed fantastic, and we enjoyed a simple but satisfying meal of pizza and pasta. Sophia, of course, devoured her Margherita pizza with gusto.


Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Ristorante Pizzeria Monte Frumentario in Assisi – where tradition meets flavor.

After lunch, we took a leisurely stroll back towards the center of town, stopping at Gran Caffè for a little pick-me-up. This charming café, located near the Chiesa Nuova, has a lovely retro ambiance. I ordered an espresso, while Lena and Sophia indulged in some gelato. It was the perfect way to recharge before continuing our exploration.


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

As the afternoon wore on, we found ourselves drawn back to the heart of Assisi. We spent some time simply wandering through the streets, soaking in the atmosphere. The town was bustling with activity, a mix of locals and tourists all drawn to its timeless beauty. The shops were filled with tempting souvenirs, and the air was filled with the aroma of freshly baked bread and roasting meat.

For dinner, we opted for Ristorante Taverna de l'Arco. This cozy taverna, recommended for its traditional Umbrian cuisine, proved to be an excellent choice. We shared a selection of local specialties, including *ombricelli alla Norcina* and *gnocchi al ragù di cinghiale*. The food was hearty and flavorful, the perfect way to end a day of exploring.


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

As we walked back to Fontebella, the town was bathed in the soft glow of streetlights. The Basilica di San Francesco, illuminated against the night sky, looked particularly majestic. It was a perfect end to a day of discovery, a reminder of the beauty and history that surrounds us here in Assisi.


Experience the charm of Assisi at Fontebella, a 4-star hotel offering comfort, exquisite dining, and proximity to historic landmarks.

Tomorrow, we plan to delve deeper into Assisi's Roman past with a visit to the Roman Forum and Archaeological Museum. We’ll also explore the Assisi Diocesan Museum, and perhaps do some shopping at Massimiliano Della Vedova. It’s hard to believe we only have a few days left here; time truly flies when you’re immersed in beauty and history. I also need to remember to get a travel adapter, I completely forgot about it.

October continues to offer a delightful mix of events. I saw that the Sage and Garden Festival continues to run on select days this month, and there are also some musical performances at Teatro Lyrick. It seems there's always something happening here in Assisi.

Back in Berlin, life often feels like a whirlwind of deadlines and conference calls. But here in Assisi, time seems to slow down, allowing us to truly connect with each other and with the world around us. It’s a reminder of what truly matters: family, history, and the simple joy of discovery. I'm grateful for these moments, these shared experiences that will stay with us long after we've returned home. I am already looking forward to sharing a craft beer from one of my favorite Berlin breweries with Lena, as we reminisce about our Italian adventure.

As I sit here writing, with the sounds of Assisi drifting in through the open window, I can't help but feel a sense of contentment. It’s been a good day, a day of quiet discoveries and shared moments. And as I look forward to tomorrow's adventures, I know that there are still many more hidden corners of Assisi waiting to be explored.