Assisi

Maintaining its original Medieval structure intact and girded by large walls, the city of St. Francis is set on a hill at the foot of Monte Subasio. Once a city confederated with Rome, it later became a Roman municipium. Dating to this period are the Piazza del Comune, the Roman Forum, and the Rocca Maggiore fortress. As the Franciscan movement took hold, artworks stupendous in their grandeur and uniqueness were produced. Over time, a wondrous union – of nature, art, and places of worship – came into being. Its Basilica, dedicated to the poor Saint and conserving frescoes by Giotto and Cimabue, is famous around the world. Also of great interest are the Basilica of Santa Chiara, the Cathedral of San Rufino, Santa Maria Maggiore, and the church of San Pietro.