Assisi Walking Tour: Saint Francis and Saint Claire

Discover the captivating world of Assisi’s most revered saints on this immersive walking tour. Trace the footsteps of Saint Francis and Saint Claire as you explore their legendary legacies, from the majestic Basilica of Saint Francis to the serene Basilica of Saint Claire. Along the way, uncover the town’s rich religious history and architectural wonders, all while navigating picturesque piazzas and ancient sites. Get ready to embark on a journey that will leave you with a deeper appreciation for this enchanting Italian destination.

Key Points

• Visit the Basilica of Saint Francis to see the frescoes depicting the life of Saint Francis and the Giotto-painted cycle in the lower church.
• Explore the Basilica of Saint Claire, the final resting place of Saint Claire and a stunning example of Gothic architecture.
• Contrast the medieval and Renaissance landmarks with the ancient Minerva Temple, a well-preserved 1st century BC Roman structure.
• Experience the historic heart of Assisi at the Piazza Del Comune, home to the Palazzo dei Priori and local shops and cafes.
• Tour the Cathedral of Saint Rufino, a 12th-century Romanesque cathedral with notable façade carvings and a striking rose window.

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Exploring the Basilica of Saint Francis

The Basilica of Saint Francis stands as a majestic centerpiece of Assisi, drawing visitors from around the world to explore its rich history and sacred architecture.

Built in the 13th century, the basilica’s upper and lower churches showcase stunning Romanesque and Gothic styles. Visitors can wander the nave, admiring its frescoes depicting the life of Saint Francis.

The Basilica’s highlight is the Giotto-painted cycle in the lower church, offering a vivid visual narrative of the saint’s journey.

Headphones are available to enhance the experience, providing audio commentary in multiple languages.

The Basilica of Saint Claire

Adjacent to the renowned Basilica of Saint Francis stands the equally captivating Basilica of Saint Claire. This stunning Gothic structure is a testament to the life and legacy of Saint Claire, the co-founder of the Order of Poor Ladies. Visitors can marvel at the stunning stained glass windows, the ornate frescoes, and the tomb of Saint Claire herself. The basilica offers a serene and spiritual experience, allowing visitors to enjoy the history and devotion of this remarkable woman.

| Highlights | | |

|————|–|–|

| Stained Glass Windows | Ornate Frescoes | Tomb of Saint Claire |

| Architectural Beauty | Spiritual Atmosphere | Historical Significance |

| Devotional Experience | Insights into Saint Claire’s Life | Peaceful Respite |

The Minerva Temple

Towering above the bustling Piazza del Comune, the Minerva Temple stands as a striking remnant of Assisi’s Roman past.

Dedicated to the goddess Minerva, this majestic structure dates back to the 1st century BC. Visitors can marvel at its intricate Corinthian columns and admire the temple’s well-preserved façade.

Though the interior is no longer accessible, the exterior offers a glimpse into Assisi’s ancient heritage.

Exploring the Minerva Temple provides a fascinating contrast to the city’s medieval and Renaissance landmarks, offering a unique perspective on the multilayered history that defines this captivating Italian destination.

Piazza Del Comune

At the heart of Assisi’s historic center lies Piazza del Comune, a bustling town square that has long served as the city’s social and civic hub.

Anchored by the Palazzo dei Priori, a grand 13th-century town hall, the piazza showcases Assisi’s medieval architecture and charm. Visitors can admire the ornate fountain, browse local shops and cafes, or simply soak in the lively atmosphere.

The piazza’s central location makes it an ideal starting point for exploring the rest of Assisi’s revered religious sites, including the Basilica of Saint Francis and the Cathedral of Saint Rufino, just a short walk away.

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The Cathedral of Saint Rufino

After exploring the lively Piazza del Comune, visitors can head to the nearby Cathedral of Saint Rufino. This 12th-century cathedral is a stunning example of Romanesque architecture, with a façade adorned with intricate carvings and a striking rose window.

| Feature | Description |

| — | — |

| Architectural Style | Romanesque |

| Construction | 12th century |

| Notable Elements | Façade carvings, rose window |

| Dedication | Saint Rufino, the patron saint of Assisi |

| Significance | An important religious and cultural landmark in Assisi |

The cathedral’s interior is equally impressive, with a spacious nave and intricate frescoes adorning the walls. Visitors can take a moment to admire the stunning artwork and soak in the tranquil atmosphere of this historic site.

Historical Insights and Significance

The Cathedral of Saint Rufino holds immense historical significance in Assisi, serving as a testament to the city’s rich religious heritage.

The cathedral, dating back to the 11th century, features:

Romanesque architecture, with its striking façade and bell tower, marks the 11th-century Cathedral of Saint Rufino in Assisi.

1. Romanesque architecture, with its striking façade and bell tower.

2. Impressive frescoes and artwork, showcasing the region’s artistic prowess.

3. The baptismal font where both Saint Francis and Saint Claire were baptized, connecting the cathedral to the lives of these revered Assisian saints.

These historical elements, woven into the cathedral’s very fabric, offer visitors a profound connection to Assisi’s storied past.

Audio Guide and Tour Accessibility

The Assisi Walking Tour provides visitors with an audio guide available in multiple languages, including French, Italian, English, German, and Spanish. This allows guests to enjoy the rich history and significance of the sites visited. However, the tour is not suitable for those with mobility impairments, as the walking route may present challenges. To ensure an enjoyable experience, group sizes are limited to 2 participants, with larger parties required to contact the agency directly.

| Audio Guide Languages | Accessibility |

|————————|————–|

| French | Not suitable for mobility impaired |

| Italian | Group size limited to 2 |

| English | Larger groups contact agency |

| German | |

| Spanish | |

Meeting Point and Additional Services

The meeting point for the Assisi Walking Tour is at AGENZIA VIAGGI ASISIUM TRAVEL, located at the Basilica of Saint Francis in Assisi.

The meeting point for the Assisi Walking Tour is at AGENZIA VIAGGI ASISIUM TRAVEL, located at the Basilica of Saint Francis in Assisi.

The tour offers some additional services for guests:

1. Hotel pick-up and drop-off is available for a fee, making it convenient for travelers to get to the starting point.

2. Larger groups must contact the agency directly, as the tour is limited to 2 participants.

3. Headphones for the audio guide in the Basilica of Saint Francis can be rented for an extra €3 fee.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Headphones for the Audio Guide?

Yes, you can bring your own headphones for the audio guide. The tour notes indicate that headphones are available for an extra fee, but using your own headphones is likely permitted to avoid this additional cost.

Is There a Discount for Children or Students?

The tour doesn’t offer any discounts for children or students. The price of $131.07 per person is the standard rate for all participants. However, the agency may be able to provide special arrangements for larger groups or families upon request.

What Should I Wear for the Walking Tour?

Wear comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing, as the tour involves extensive walking through the historic streets of Assisi. Dress in layers to accommodate any changes in the weather during the 2.5-hour excursion.

Can I Leave the Tour Group at Any Time?

Participants can’t leave the tour group at any time. The tour operates with a limited group size, and participants are expected to stay with the guide throughout the 2.5-hour walking tour for safety and to ensure they don’t miss any key highlights.

Is Photography Allowed Inside the Basilicas?

Photography is generally allowed inside the basilicas, but visitors should be respectful and avoid flash photography. Some areas may have restrictions, so it’s best to check with the tour guide or staff before taking photos.

The Sum Up

The Assisi Walking Tour provides a captivating journey through the historic heart of this enchanting town. Visitors can explore the stunning Basilicas of Saint Francis and Saint Claire, discovering the profound legacies of these revered saints. Along the way, they’ll meander through picturesque piazzas and ancient sites, seeing the town’s rich religious history and architectural beauty. With an audio guide and accessibility features, this tour offers a deeply rewarding experience for all who embark on it.

You can check availability for your dates here: