The small Umbrian town of Assisi is located in central Italy, approximately 12 miles east of Perugia at an elevation of 1,300 feet above sea level. Assisi is best known as the birthplace of Saint Francis of Assisi — the patron saint of Italy and founder of the Franciscan order. Assisi’s main attraction is the 13th-century Basilica di San Francesco, which contains the sacred relics of Francis and beautiful frescoes of his life. There are at least seven other churches well worth visiting for their history and beauty. 

The town of Assisi, with its Roman ruins, winding medieval streets and sacred shrines, has been a major Catholic pilgrimage destination for centuries and is today one of the most popular tourist destinations in Italy. Although Assisi proper only has about 3,000 inhabitants (26,000 in the larger commune of Assisi), 4 to 5 million visitors visit the small town each year.  

Assisi’s cathedral is dedicated to San Rufino, the bishop who first brought Christianity to the city. The cathedral’s architecture and design is quite impressive and should be visited by anyone who comes to Assisi. 

For golf lovers, why not combine golf and art with a golf holiday in Assisi? Golf is a very fast-growing sport in Italy and Umbria is known for its “green heart”. Umbria is an unexpected Golfers Paradise. Play 18 holes at the wonderful golfing mecca called Golf Club Perugia, which was founded in the late 50’s. Its facilities are charming and its unmistakable English style surroundings and landscape are some of the highlights this club features its guests.  

Art lovers will want to visit Kéramos, whose hand crafted Umbrian and Italian ceramics, textiles and tapestries will intrigue you. The floors of this store date back to Roman times and are located on a road which dates all the way back to the first century B.C.  

Wine bars are located throughout Assisi and are quite a wonderful place to try typical Umbrian cuisine, as well as taste the variety of local wines Assisi has to offer. La Bottega dei Sapori (or the Bottle of Flavour) is a wonderful wine bar with a great atmosphere; it is conveniently located in the Piazza del Comune.   

Whether you are strolling the cobblestone streets looking for souvenirs, admiring the artwork at the Studio d’arte Alberto Scarabattoli, or enjoying a freshly brewed cappuccino at the Trattoria degli Umbri, the town of Assisi will simply charm you.