Assisi
Gallano Resort is set in an ancient medieval village dominated by a fortified monastery with imposing walls, and it is conveniently situated near plenty of historical, artistic, architectural, and religious sites. Situated only 27 kilometers from the Resort is the most spiritual and fascinating town of Umbria, Assisi, the hometown of Saint Francis, patron saint of Italy. Being so close to Assisi, Gallano Resort makes a perfect place to stay at and to come back to for a relaxing evening in its pools or for a delicious tasting of traditional Umbrian dishes in its restaurant.
WHEN IN UMBRIA, BE SURE TO INCLUDE A VISIT TO ASSISI
Perched on the western flank of Monte Subasio and overlooking the green Umbrian Valley, Assisi is a classic medieval town. It boasts a sweeping view dotted with bell towers, churches, and stone houses enclosed by strong walls. The Rocca Maggiore stands out from afar, providing an astonishing vista across the Umbrian Valley and the majestic Basilica of Saint Francis. The town’s medieval structure is still perfectly intact; as you wander through its alleys, squares, and monuments, you get the feeling that time here has never passed.
The artistic and cultural history of Assisi
Assisi boasts a rich artistic and cultural heritage, but it is impossible to do it justice in a few paragraphs. However, we cannot fail to mention Palazzo dei Priori, the Municipal Art Gallery, the stunning Temple of Minerva, and the scenic Piazza del Comune.
Assisi is not only one of the most beautiful villages in Italy, but it is also the holiest place in the country. It is the birthplace of Saint Francis, the founder of the Franciscan Order and patron saint of Italy. Here, in Assisi, Francis started preaching in an attempt to restore a Church that was poor and compassionate.
Therefore, it is no coincidence that every year, no matter the season, thousands of Italian and foreign tourists decide to pay a visit to the holy places of Assisi.
Assisi is easy to get around and is ideal for one-day or half-day visits, which will be enough time for you to soak up all the magic of this truly unique place in Europe.
A WALK IN THE MIDDLE AGES
Ideal for exploring on foot, the historic center is where you will find Assisi’s major sights. Among these are numerous churches, the most prominent being the Basilica of Saint Francis. The Basilica is divided into the Upper Church, with frescoes dating from the 13th and 14th centuries, including a cycle by Giotto depicting the life of Saint Francis; and the Lower Church. The Basilica of Santa Chiara, the Church of San Damiano, where Saint Francis had his conversion, and the Basilica of Santa Maria degli Angeli are also well worth visiting. The Basilica of Santa Maria degli Angeli houses the Porziuncola, a small chapel where Saint Francis received his first religious community, and the Cappella del Transito, where the saint died in 1226.