Sanctuaries and Franciscan Sites Surround Assisi

Nestled in the rolling hills of Umbria, the historic town of Assisi offers visitors a chance to enjoy the serene world of Franciscan spirituality. Beyond the iconic Basilica of Saint Francis, a network of sanctuaries and hermitages dot the landscape, each providing a unique glimpse into the life and legacy of this revered saint. These tranquil retreats, surrounded by the natural beauty of the region, invite travelers to disconnect from the everyday and reconnect with the contemplative spirit that defined Francis’ enduring influence. From the Porziuncola Chapel to the Carceri Hermitage, these hallowed sites promise a profound and transformative experience for those seeking to uncover the essence of Franciscan faith.

Good To Know

• The Basilica of Saint Francis in Assisi is a major tourist and pilgrimage site, offering guided tours to explore Franciscan spirituality and history.
• Key Franciscan spiritual sites include the San Damiano Monastery, Porziuncola Chapel, and Carceri Hermitage, each providing unique insights into the life of Saint Francis.
• The tour emphasizes peaceful sanctuaries located beyond Assisi’s medieval walls, such as the tranquil gardens and frescoes of San Damiano and the rustic simplicity of Carceri Hermitage.
• The tour is not wheelchair accessible, but child rates are available when accompanied by two paying adults, with a minimum booking of two participants and a maximum group size of 15.
• Travelers can expect a full refund for cancellations made 24 hours in advance, and positive reviews highlight the tour guide’s competence and the enriching understanding of Saint Francis’ life and spirituality.

Overview of the Basilica

The Basilica of Saint Francis in Assisi is a renowned attraction that draws numerous travelers and devoted pilgrims.

This iconic structure offers visitors a chance to enjoy authentic Franciscan spirituality through a guided tour.

Key sites within the basilica complex include the San Damiano Monastery, Porziuncola Chapel, and Carceri Hermitage, all of which focus on the peaceful sanctuaries located outside the medieval walls of Assisi.

The tour provides an enriching experience, allowing participants to explore the rich history and significance of these Franciscan sites.

The activity concludes at the original meeting point, ensuring a seamless and fulfilling experience for all.

Key Franciscan Spiritual Sites

Several key Franciscan spiritual sites are featured on this tour, offering visitors a chance to enjoy the rich history and serene atmosphere associated with Saint Francis of Assisi. These include the San Damiano Monastery, where Francis had his famous vision, the Porziuncola Chapel, the birthplace of the Franciscan Order, and the Carceri Hermitage, where Francis and his followers retreated for solitude and prayer. Each location provides a unique glimpse into the life and legacy of this beloved saint, allowing participants to connect with his spiritual teachings and witness the tranquility of these hallowed grounds.

Site	Significance	Highlights
San Damiano Monastery	Location of Francis’ vision	Peaceful gardens, frescoes
Porziuncola Chapel	Birthplace of Franciscan Order	Ornate architecture, relics
Carceri Hermitage	Retreat for Francis and followers	Rustic simplicity, panoramic views

Focus on Peaceful Sanctuaries

This tour takes visitors beyond the medieval walls of Assisi, focusing on the peaceful sanctuaries that offer a tranquil respite from the bustling town center.

Key sites include the San Damiano Monastery, where St. Francis received his divine calling, and the Porziuncola Chapel, the birthplace of the Franciscan order.

The Carceri Hermitage, nestled in the Subasio mountain, provides a serene environment for reflection.

These sanctuaries represent the essence of Franciscan spirituality, emphasizing simplicity, nature, and contemplation.

The tour concludes at the original meeting point, leaving visitors with a deeper appreciation for the profound influence of St. Francis on the surrounding landscape.

What to Expect on the Tour

Guests receive confirmation upon booking for this tour. This experience is not wheelchair accessible, but the child rate applies when sharing with two paying adults. Minimum booking requires two people, and the maximum group size is limited to 15 travelers.

What to Expect
Confirmation	Upon Booking
Wheelchair	Not Accessible
Child Rate	With 2 Adults
Group Size	Max 15 Travelers

Public transportation is available nearby, and most travelers are eligible to participate. A full refund is offered for cancellations made 24 hours in advance, so flexibility is ensured.

Confirmation and Booking Details

Upon booking this tour, travelers receive confirmation.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but a child rate applies when sharing with 2 paying adults. There’s a minimum booking requirement of 2 people, and the maximum group size is limited to 15 travelers.

Key details include:

• Tour isn’t wheelchair accessible
• Child rate available when sharing with 2 paying adults
• Minimum booking requirement of 2 people
• Maximum group size limited to 15 travelers

Public transportation is available nearby, and most travelers are eligible to participate.

A full refund is available for cancellations made 24 hours in advance, ensuring flexibility for travelers. It’s important to confirm cancellation terms at the time of booking.

Accessibility and Group Size

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, limiting participation to those without mobility challenges.

However, children are welcome when sharing with two paying adults.

To ensure an intimate experience, the group size is capped at 15 travelers. This small group size allows for more personalized attention from the guide and a more immersive exploration of the Franciscan sites.

Meeting the minimum booking requirement of two people ensures the tour operates as scheduled.

Travelers can expect an authentic experience focused on the peaceful sanctuaries surrounding the medieval walls of Assisi.

Cancellation Policy and Refunds

Travelers can obtain a full refund for cancellations made up to 24 hours prior to the experience. This policy ensures flexibility for those who need to adjust their plans.

However, no refunds are available for cancellations made after this time. It’s important to review the specific cancellation terms at the time of booking, as they may vary for this tour.

The key details regarding the cancellation policy are:

1. Full refund for cancellations up to 24 hours in advance.
2. No refunds for cancellations made after the 24-hour window.
3. Policy designed to provide flexibility for travelers.
4. Confirm cancellation terms when booking the tour.

Positive Traveler Experiences

Glowing traveler reviews attest to the tour guide’s competence and deep knowledge, which enriched their understanding of St. Francis’ life and the Franciscan spirituality.

Reviewers highlight the peace and tranquility they experienced at the sanctuaries and hermitages outside the medieval walls of Assisi.

One traveler remarked on the comfort of private transportation, which allowed them to fully enjoy the serene atmosphere.

The Sum Up

The sanctuaries and Franciscan sites surrounding Assisi offer a profound and peaceful connection to the essence of St. Francis’ legacy. Visitors can explore key spiritual retreats like San Damiano Monastery and Porziuncola Chapel, seeing the simplicity and contemplative spirit that continue to inspire pilgrims. These tranquil locations, set against the stunning Umbrian landscape, provide a retreat for spiritual reflection and personal renewal.