Situated in the province of Perugia, Italy, in the heart of Umbria is Assisi, a town characterised as having a poetic setting. It is well known for the Basilica of St Francis, set high on a hill above the town, which features series of frescoes by Giotto depicting the life of St Francis.

See:

• Basilica of San Francesco d'Assisi (St Francis) – This basilica, containing two churches, one built on top of the other, suffered largely when earthquakes struck Umbria on September 26, 1997. However, during restoration, new technology was used to make the basilica as earthquake-proof as possible. 
• Cathedral of San Rufino (St. Rufinus) – This major church in Assisi has played an important part in the history of the Franciscan order. In this church St Francis (1182) and St. Clare (1193) and many of their original disciples were baptised.
• Basilica of Santa Chiara (St Clare) – This basilica, with its large lateral walls, rose windows and simple Gothic interior, contains the tomb of St Clare and 13th century frescoes and paintings.
• Rocca Maggiore – Built by Cardinal Albornoz (1367) and added to by Popes Pius II and Paul III is the large 14th century Rocca Maggiore. Dominating the city, this hill fortress offering picturesque views across to Perugia and over the valley.

Experience:

• Festivals – The Festa di San Francesco is held on the 3rd and 4th of October and is the main religious event of the city’s calendar. The Ars Nova Musica festival, held from late August to mid-September, features local and national performers. Meanwhile, at the end of the first week of May the colourful Festa di Calendimaggio is held which celebrates the coming of spring with vibrant medieval fashion.