Assisi

Assisi, a small town in Umbria, Italy, sits up on a hill with picture-perfect views of the surrounding countryside. The streets wind through medieval buildings made of white and pink stone that seem to glow at sunset. Most people know Assisi as the birthplace of St. Francis, one of Italy's patron saints, who founded the Franciscan religious order in the 13th century.

The Basilica of St. Francis dominates the town and houses incredible frescoes by famous artists like Giotto and Cimabue. These artworks tell the story of St. Francis and have survived for centuries. The town is also home to other beautiful churches like the Basilica of Santa Chiara and the Cathedral of San Rufino.

Assisi has a calm, peaceful atmosphere that matches its spiritual heritage. Many visitors say there's something special about the place that can't quite be explained. Throughout the year, religious festivals and events bring the town to life with processions, music, and traditional celebrations. The Calendimaggio festival in May recreates medieval life with competitions between the upper and lower parts of town.

Beyond the religious sites, Assisi offers fantastic regional food. The local cuisine features simple but delicious dishes with fresh ingredients from the Umbrian countryside - think truffle pasta, porchetta (roast pork), and strong red wines. The town makes a perfect base for exploring the rest of Umbria, an area often overlooked by tourists rushing between Rome and Florence.