Family Adventure in the Heart of Assisi

Seeking Serenity and Savoring Flavors in Assisi

Today was a day of contrasts, where the echoes of St. Francis's devotion met the vibrant tastes of Umbrian cuisine. Assisi, nestled in the rolling hills, offered us moments of profound reflection and simple joys, a balance that made the day truly special. From the serene Basilica to the robust flavors of local restaurants, it was a journey for the soul and the palate.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Le Terrazze di Properzio. The morning air was crisp, typical for October in Assisi, with a touch of coolness that invigorated us. The aroma of freshly baked bread and strong Italian coffee filled the air as we enjoyed our meal. Sophia was particularly excited about the pastries, a sweet start to what promised to be a day of exploration. After breakfast, we set out for the Basilica di Santa Maria degli Angeli, located a few kilometers from Assisi proper. The basilica is a massive structure, its dome visible from afar, beckoning pilgrims and travelers alike. Inside, the Porziuncola, a small, humble chapel, stands as a testament to St. Francis's original refuge. It was a humbling experience to stand in the very place where St. Francis chose to live a life of poverty and devotion. The contrast between the grandeur of the basilica and the simplicity of the Porziuncola was striking, a reminder of the saint's profound commitment to his ideals.


Explore the Basilica di Santa Maria degli Angeli, a spiritual haven with stunning architecture and rich history, nestled in the heart of Italy.
We spent a couple of hours exploring the basilica and its surroundings, soaking in the spiritual atmosphere. The golden statue of the Madonna degli Angeli atop the façade gleamed in the morning sun, a beacon of hope and faith. The interior of the basilica was equally impressive, with its soaring ceilings and intricate artwork. Sophia was fascinated by the stories of St. Francis, and Lena and I found ourselves moved by the saint's unwavering dedication to his beliefs.

Next on our itinerary was the Rocca Maggiore, the imposing fortress that dominates the Assisi skyline. The climb up to the Rocca was a bit strenuous, but the panoramic views from the top were well worth the effort. From our vantage point, we could see the entire Umbrian valley stretching out before us, a patchwork of green fields and rolling hills. The fortress itself is a fascinating structure, with a history dating back to the 12th century. It has been rebuilt and modified over the centuries, serving as a defensive stronghold, a residence for powerful families, and even a prison. Exploring the Rocca, we felt like we were stepping back in time, imagining the lives of those who had lived and fought within its walls.


Explore Rocca Maggiore, Assisi's historic fortress, for breathtaking views and a glimpse into Italy's medieval past.

Assisi is a place where the past and present intertwine, where the spiritual and the earthly find a harmonious balance.

For lunch, we chose Ristorante Pizzeria Il Menestrello, drawn in by its charming medieval-style decor. The restaurant was bustling with activity, filled with locals and tourists alike. We ordered a variety of dishes, including pizza, pasta, and local specialties. Sophia devoured her pizza, while Lena and I savored the flavors of Umbrian cuisine. The restaurant's ambiance was warm and inviting, making it a perfect spot to relax and refuel after our morning adventures.


Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Ristorante Pizzeria Il Menestrello in Assisi—delicious pizzas and traditional dishes await!
In the afternoon, we ventured to the Eremo delle Carceri, a hermitage nestled on the slopes of Mount Subasio. The drive up to the hermitage was scenic, winding through dense forests of oak and ilex trees. The Eremo is a place of profound peace and tranquility, a sanctuary where St. Francis and his followers retreated for prayer and contemplation. We explored the caves where the friars lived, the small chapel where they gathered for worship, and the surrounding forest, feeling a sense of connection to the natural world and the spiritual history of the place. Sophia was captivated by the Devil Hole, a grotto with a quatrefoil-shaped hole in the stone. The silence and solitude of the Eremo were a welcome contrast to the hustle and bustle of Assisi, offering us a chance to reflect on our experiences and reconnect with ourselves.


Discover the serene beauty of Eremo delle Carceri, a spiritual sanctuary nestled in the hills of Assisi, rich in history and natural tranquility.
Before dinner, we stopped by Bibenda Assisi Wine Tasting & Gourmet Food for a wine tasting experience. Nila, the owner and sommelier, greeted us warmly and guided us through a selection of Umbrian wines. We sampled local cheeses, cured meats, and olive oils, each bite and sip a celebration of the region's culinary heritage. Nila's passion for wine and her knowledge of the region were infectious, making the tasting a truly memorable experience. I even learned that Bibenda produces its own wine called Francésco, a tribute to the saint of Assisi. Lena, Sophia, and I enjoyed the relaxed atmosphere, savoring the flavors and learning about the art of winemaking.


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 il Vicoletto, a charming restaurant tucked away in a historic alley. The restaurant's ambiance was intimate and inviting, with rustic decor and warm lighting. We ordered a variety of dishes, including seafood and local specialties. The food was delicious, the service attentive, and the overall experience delightful. It was the perfect way to end our day in Assisi, savoring the flavors of Umbria and reflecting on the spiritual and cultural richness of the town.


Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Ristorante il Vicoletto in Assisi—where tradition meets taste in every dish.
As we walked back to Fontebella, the air was filled with the sounds of the town winding down for the night. The October air was crisp and cool, carrying the scent of woodsmoke and damp earth. The stars twinkled above us, a reminder of the vastness of the universe and the smallness of our place within it. We talked about our favorite moments of the day, sharing our impressions and insights. Sophia, tired but happy, fell asleep in my arms, her face serene and content.


Experience the charm of Assisi at Fontebella, a 4-star hotel offering comfort, exquisite dining, and proximity to historic landmarks.
Tomorrow, we plan to visit the Cathedral of San Rufino, the Basilica di Santa Chiara, and San Damiano. We're also hoping to do some souvenir shopping at Arte Assisi dal 1947. It promises to be another day filled with history, culture, and spiritual exploration. Assisi continues to surprise and enchant us, revealing its layers of beauty and meaning with each passing day. I am especially looking forward to visiting the Cathedral of San Rufino, as I am keen to see the baptismal font where St. Francis was baptized.

Back at the hotel, I took a moment to jot down my thoughts, capturing the essence of our day in Assisi. It's moments like these, when we can blend spiritual exploration with the simple joys of family travel, that make our journeys so rewarding. I'm grateful for the opportunity to share these experiences with Lena and Sophia, creating memories that will last a lifetime. I am also grateful that I remembered to pack my camera, even though I forgot the raincoat and travel adapter. I will need to find a shop to buy a travel adapter tomorrow!

I am looking forward to what tomorrow brings, and the new experiences that await us in this enchanting town. I am hoping to find some local events, perhaps some music or a local festival. I saw that the Assisi Pax Mundi music festival is taking place this month, so perhaps we can catch a performance. Also, I noticed that the Sage and Garden Festival is happening this month, which might be interesting to visit. It is always exciting to discover new things and immerse ourselves in the local culture. Good night from Assisi!