A view from the hill
When I was invited to a friends wedding along with others to Assisi, the first thought that came to my mind was that I might as well seize the opportunity to see Rome as part of a round trip. After all, it was only 2 hours away from Assisi. But the idea was to be at Claudia’s wedding in Assisi! This journey was all about surviving a last minute call to Assisi.
A view from the hill
This medieval town is located in the Umbria region of Italy, which is in the central part of the country. After travelling on the Tren Italia train for over an hour and a half in the sweltering heat, we met a friend of the bride and groom by chance, who mentioned that he was going to a wedding in Assisi. So when we got talking with Reg, we found out that we were all going to the same event on the 6th of August. What a small world! When we arrived at the station, we decided to share a taxi together from the station to take us to our different hotels.
Santa Chiara
Outside basilica Santa Chiara Assisi
Sunset in Santa Chiara
We stayed in the Santa Chiara area and I couldn’t help but observe the pace of life there. The locals and visitors were walking briskly on the roads. In some parts, pavements were non-existent, so we walked on the roads for the best part of our stay but spent so much time looking over our shoulders in case a vehicle sneaked up on us from behind.
Sunset in Assisi
Knowing that people were welcoming and friendly was a bonus. Not once did we feel out of place. The medieval buildings, churches and ruins were spectacular and the mountains and winding roads makes Assisi such a unique place. Although, walking shoes are highly recommended.
At night
Churches were present almost everywhere and the memories of waking up to the chimes of church bells every morning will remain with us for a while.
Basilica of Saint Francis of Assisi
After checking in, we couldn’t wait to see the town. We were so keen to see the Basilica de Francesco but visited the venue on the second day. If you ever plan on visiting this venue, be warned…. You will be required to join a queue for almost 1 hour to get security clearance before entering the venue but it’s well worth the wait.
The grounds at Basilica of Saint Francis of Assisi
Inside the Basilica de Francesco lies the tomb of St Francis, who was an Italian Roman Catholic who was known for his deeds.
In Assisi, we couldn’t help but notice churches wherever we walked, so we made a habit entering each one to admire the paintings on the walls and ceilings.
Street view
Ruins
Whilst walking along the narrow streets, up and down the hills, I was curious to know why some of the ruined buildings appeared to be revamped. Could this due to earthquakes or other natural disasters? We were completely blown away by the architecture and appreciate the fact that the buildings are still standing. This is a town to see if you love buildings.
On the eve of the wedding, we met at a restaurant known as the La Bracera di Assisi to indulge in some Italian Pizza’s. The anticipated wedding took place at one of the churches at the Basilica de Francesco.
Olive trees
The reception took place Perugia, which was around half an hour away. I experienced an 8 – course meal on the day, but it was a struggle to get past the third! After a long wait to see this picturesque country, it finally happened. Thanks to my friend.
What great memories this brings back to our amazing trip in Assisi, meeting you and your lovely family for the first time, was truly a trip I’ll always remember… when’s the next gathering ????
Marie
Can’t stop looking at the photos we took. You’re right the memories will stay with us for a long time. Let’s arrange to meet in December if possible. We’ll speak or text. 🙂
Thank you very much, Bola, I understand now that I have to come back to Assisi where Katya and I were back in 2002. I remember how impressed I was by the Giotto’s frescoes. But, we didn’t spend there enough time to enjoy the town. We will definitely come back!
And, if you liked Giotto’ you have to visit Capella Scrovegni in Padua / Padova, the Giotto’s masterpiece.
Hi George. We definitely have to go back some day to view the masterpiece. Unfortunately, we were short of time.
Lovely photos and a place that’s been on my Italy-list. Thanks for letting me share the journey with your pictures!
I hope you get to visit soon.
H, Bola. I would definitely like to visit Umbria, as Perugia is known for its chocolate. Assisi looks like an extremely picturesque village I would love to visit as well. Thx for sharing your experience with us.
Shame I didn’t buy any chocolate…..now I know, maybe next time. Thanks for the insight.
Thank you for sharing these wonderful photos! I’ve been to Rome and the only area beyond that we went to was Pompei (a life-long dream come true!). But despite the crazy traffic, and even crazier drivers, I absolutely fell in love with Rome and would love to return one day to explore other areas of Italy. It appears Assisi should be on that bucket list. 🙂
I share your passion. We literally had to hold our life in our hands when crossing those busy roads in Rome. Glad you’ve put this beautiful town on your bucket list.
Assisi sounds like a great place to visit. Personally, I like just about anywhere in Italy.
Visiting Assisi was great and I’ve always believed most regions in Italy are.
Must say lovely pictures and your simplicity of introducing takes it a notch higher! Added to my Bucket List.
Many thanks. I look forward to hearing about your experience there.
We are heading to Italy later this year, Thanks for the reminder this is somewhere I have always wanted to go but for some reason it is not on my list, thank to your post it now is.
Thanks Michele. I waited so long to see Italy but it was worth the wait. You will enjoy Assisi and you might be able to do a day trip if time permits.
That is an amazing city. the architecture alone is spectacle to view. Thanks for sharing the article and the pictures with us.
The architecture was truly amazing.
Looks like a great place for a wedding. The sunset image is beautiful.
Thanks. It’s a memorable place….highly recommended!
I really enjoyed reading about your trip and experiences; what an amazing location! And your sunset photo should be framed and hanging on your wall!! Perfection!
Hi Marilyn. Glad you enjoyed reading the post and I’m going to consider hanging the photo on my wall. Thank you!