Assisi Introduction Walking Tour (Self Guided), Assisi

Assisi is located on the western slope of Mount Subasio. It is 1,300 feet above sea level, overlooking the rivers Topino and Chiasicio. It is a walled city with narrow, twisting streets and alleys. It originally was known as Assisium. Successively Umbrian, Etruscan and Roman, it became a Ghibelline commune in the 11th century.

There were clashes with Guelph Perugia. In the battle of Collestrada, a young man named Francesco de Bernardone was taken prisoner. He was held for a year. He had changed. He renounced the world, became a mendicant, devoted to prayer and meditation. He is known today as Saint Francis of Assisi.

Tourists and pilgrims flock to churches, shrines, and palaces in the city. The Basilica of Saint Francis of Assisi is divided into upper and lower churches. The lower church holds the body of Saint Francis.

Santa Maria sopra Minerva is a church built on the old Temple of Minerva. Underneath the church is part of a Roman forum. The Basilica of Saint Clare, the Papal Basilica of Saint Mary of the Angels, the New Church, Hermitage of the Prisons and San Damiano Church all represent stations in the lives of the saints.

There is the medieval castle of Major Fortress, towering over the city. A Roman amphitheater, piazzas, fountains and museums must be added to the list.

Experience both medieval and modern Assisi. The Calendimaggio Festival occurs in the first four days in May ending on Saturday. It includes processions, theatre, Choirs, cross bows, dancing and flag contests. And there is more. Come and find out.