Family Adventure in Assisi

Whispers of Saint Francis

Today was a day of deep reflection and simple pleasures here in Assisi. Wandering through this historical town, I felt a sense of peace wash over me, a feeling that I wanted to share with my family. It's amazing how a place can hold so much history and spirituality, making you feel connected to something larger than yourself. From exploring sacred sites to savoring the local cuisine, every moment was a testament to the beauty of Assisi.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Ristorante Buca di San Francesco. The aroma of freshly baked bread and strong Italian coffee filled the air, a perfect start to a day of exploration. Nang and Ananda enjoyed the local pastries, while I savored a simple yet delicious cornetto. The restaurant had a cozy atmosphere, and I could tell it was a local favorite. It was a wonderful way to fuel up before delving into Assisi's rich history.


Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Ristorante Buca di San Francesco in Assisi - a culinary gem nestled in the heart of Italy's historic landscape.

Our first stop was the magnificent Papal Basilica and Sacred Convent of Saint Francis in Assisi. As we approached, the sheer scale of the basilica was awe-inspiring. The pink and white stone from Mount Subasio glowed in the morning sun. I knew a little about the basilica already – that construction began in 1228, just two years after the death of St. Francis, and that it is built on what was once known as the Hill of Hell, a place where criminals were executed. Now, it is called the Hill of Paradise, a transformation that I found deeply symbolic.


Discover the Papal Basilica of Saint Francis in Assisi, a spiritual sanctuary adorned with breathtaking art and rich history, nestled in the heart of Italy.

Inside, the basilica is divided into two main sections: the Upper Church and the Lower Church. We started in the Upper Church, which is an early example of Gothic architecture in Italy. The vibrant frescoes by Giotto and Cimabue told stories of Saint Francis's life. Ananda, who is quite the art enthusiast, was particularly captivated by the intricate details and the vivid colors. Nang, ever the historian, read aloud from our guidebook, explaining the significance of each fresco.

Descending into the Lower Church, the atmosphere shifted. It was darker, more intimate, and filled with a sense of profound reverence. This is where the tomb of Saint Francis lies, in a crypt beneath the altar. We stood in silence for a few moments, each of us lost in our thoughts. I reflected on the saint's message of peace, simplicity, and love, values that resonate deeply with me, especially as I get older. It was a truly moving experience. I thought of my own journey, from Lampang to Montreal, and how life's unexpected turns often lead to the most meaningful destinations.

The Basilica of Saint Francis is not just a place; it's a feeling, a connection to something greater than ourselves.

After spending a few hours at the basilica, we decided to take a leisurely stroll towards Porta San Giacomo. This ancient gate, dating back to the 14th century, is one of the main entrances to Assisi. As we walked, we passed through narrow, winding streets lined with artisan shops and cafes. The air was filled with the sounds of Italian chatter and the scent of freshly baked goods. It felt like stepping back in time.


Experience the historic charm and breathtaking views at Porta San Giacomo, the iconic gateway to Assisi's rich culture and stunning landscapes.

Reaching Porta San Giacomo, I was struck by its imposing structure. The gate is made of red brick and has a simple yet elegant design. We paused to admire the views of the surrounding Umbrian countryside. The rolling hills, dotted with olive groves and vineyards, stretched out before us, a scene of timeless beauty. Nang took some photos, capturing the essence of the landscape. I couldn't help but think how much this view reminded me of the serene landscapes of northern Thailand, a familiar comfort in a foreign land.

Ananda, always curious, pointed out some interesting architectural details of the gate, noting the influence of medieval fortifications. We learned that Porta San Giacomo once connected Assisi to the Rocca Maggiore, the fortress at the top of the city. It was fascinating to imagine the countless travelers who had passed through this gate over the centuries, each with their own stories and journeys.

For lunch, we chose Ristorante vino e cucina, a charming place recommended by a local artisan we met near Porta San Giacomo. The restaurant had a lovely outdoor terrace, perfect for enjoying the warm afternoon sun. We ordered a selection of Umbrian specialties, including truffle pasta, wild boar stew, and bruschetta with local olive oil. The food was simple, rustic, and bursting with flavor. It was exactly what we needed after a morning of exploring.


Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Ristorante Vino e Cucina in Assisi—where tradition meets flavor in a charming setting.

Nang and I shared a bottle of local wine, while Ananda opted for a refreshing lemonade. The atmosphere was relaxed and convivial, with families and couples enjoying their meals around us. I felt a sense of contentment, grateful for the opportunity to share this experience with my loved ones. It reminded me of the importance of slowing down, savoring the moment, and appreciating the simple things in life.

After lunch, we decided to do a little shopping at I Tre Archi, a local shop known for its unique artisanal products. We browsed through a variety of handmade ceramics, textiles, and souvenirs. Nang was particularly drawn to the intricate pottery, while Ananda found some interesting books on Italian history. I ended up buying a small ceramic hot air balloon, a reminder of our time in Assisi and a symbol of our family's adventurous spirit.


Discover unique handcrafted gifts and stunning furniture at I Tre Archi in Assisi, the perfect spot for memorable souvenirs and local artistry.

For dinner, we decided to try La Taverna del Norcino, a restaurant known for its traditional Umbrian cuisine. The taverna had a cozy, rustic atmosphere, with stone walls and wooden beams. We ordered a selection of local specialties, including cured meats, cheeses, and homemade pasta. The food was hearty, flavorful, and a perfect reflection of the region's culinary heritage.


Experience authentic Umbrian cuisine at La Taverna del Norcino in Assisi – where tradition meets creativity in every dish.

We started with a tagliere of local cured meats and cheeses, accompanied by crusty bread and a drizzle of olive oil. The flavors were intense and satisfying, a testament to the quality of the ingredients. For our main courses, we tried the strangozzi with black truffles, the gnocchi with wild boar ragu, and the grilled lamb chops. Each dish was perfectly cooked and seasoned, a true celebration of Umbrian cuisine.

As we savored our meal, we reflected on the day's experiences. We talked about the beauty of the basilica, the history of Porta San Giacomo, and the delicious food we had enjoyed. It was a day filled with spiritual reflections, cultural discoveries, and culinary delights, a perfect blend of experiences that made our trip to Assisi so memorable.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit Fonte Oliviera and Chiesa di San Pietro. I'm also looking forward to stopping by Caffè Duomo ASSISI for a taste of local nightlife. But for now, it's time to rest and recharge, ready for another day of adventure in this enchanting town. I feel so lucky to share these moments with Nang and Ananda, creating memories that will last a lifetime. I hope our journey inspires you to explore the world, embrace new cultures, and savor every moment along the way. As we say in Thailand, เที่ยวให้สนุก! – Have fun traveling!