Forest of Saint Francis
Nestled just below the magnificent Basilica of Saint Francis in Assisi, this enchanting woodland offers a serene retreat that bridges the gap between sacred history and the raw beauty of the Italian landscape. Stretching across sixty four hectares, the area invites you to wander along pathways that have inspired pilgrims and nature lovers for centuries. You will encounter the atmospheric ruins of the Benedictine complex of Santa Croce, including a medieval bridge and mill, which ground the site in deep local heritage. The trail culminates at the Terzo Paradiso, a striking Land Art installation by Michelangelo Pistoletto that serves as a modern reflection on harmony and sustainability. It is more than a walk in the woods; it is a profound journey through the quiet contemplation that defined the life of Saint Francis himself.
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History of Forest of Saint Francis
For centuries, the gentle slopes beneath the Basilica of Saint Francis have served as a place of quiet reflection for those following in the footsteps of the saint. Long before the forest became a protected site, the area was a vital landscape for the Benedictine monks of the Santa Croce complex, who managed the land and built essential structures like mills and bridges. These monks shaped the valley, leaving behind architectural remnants that still whisper stories of their daily lives and devotion in this verdant corner of Umbria. Over time, the forest began to lose its connection to the town above, falling into a period of neglect and gradual decline. It took a significant initiative by the Fondo Ambiente Italiano, or FAI, to reclaim this heritage. Through a generous donation by Intesa Sanpaolo in 2008, the organisation acquired sixty four hectares of land, launching an ambitious restoration project that aimed to honour both the environment and the spiritual legacy of the region. Since its public opening in 2011, the site has transformed into a harmonious blend of nature, history, and art. The trail leads visitors past archaeological ruins and towards the Tescio river, where the modern Terzo Paradiso installation by artist Michelangelo Pistoletto resides. This Land Art piece symbolises a reconnection between humanity and nature, perfectly capturing the spirit of Saint Francis who famously saw the natural world as a divine creation. Today, the forest offers a rare opportunity to step away from the crowds and experience the silence that inspired a saint.
Events spanning 811 years
Fun Facts
- • A medieval stone bridge within the forest remains a testament to the engineering and logistical needs of the medieval monks who once lived here.
- • FAI manages the property with a focus on historical conservation, ensuring the ruins are preserved against the elements while remaining accessible to the public.
- • The Terzo Paradiso, or Third Paradise, artwork by Michelangelo Pistoletto is formed using local boulders and vegetation to create an infinity symbol, representing the union between nature and artifice.
- • The Tescio river serves as a natural boundary and habitat for the forest, providing a soothing soundtrack of flowing water for visitors along the trail.
- • The forest functions as a biological corridor, protecting local flora and fauna while linking the urban environment of Assisi to the wider Umbrian countryside.
- • The path leading through the forest provides a unique, alternative perspective of the Basilica of Saint Francis, allowing visitors to see the monumental architecture from a natural vantage point.
- • The restoration project initiated by FAI in 2010 focused on ecological recovery, removing invasive plant species to restore the natural woodland balance.
- • The site contains the ruins of the Santa Croce Benedictine complex, which includes the remains of a historic monastery, a church, and a pilgrims hospital.
- • The site includes a restored tower and mill, which offer a glimpse into the industrious nature of the medieval religious communities that managed these lands.
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Places near Forest of Saint Francis
Make the most of your trip. Check out these top-rated spots located nearby.
1025mChurch of Santa Margherita
Tucked tightly into a small, incredibly picturesque corner directly opposite the massive Basilica of San Francesco, this tiny church is a true hidden gem. Most tourists rush right past it in their eagerness to reach the main sanctuary, completely missing its quiet charm. The small piazza directly in front of the church offers an incredibly beautiful, highly unusual perspective of the famous basilica's imposing side walls and flying buttresses. The interior of Santa Margherita is modest and deeply peaceful, offering a serene escape from the massive crowds just a few metres away. It is an absolutely fantastic spot to take stunning, uniquely framed photographs of the basilica without having to fight for space. Stopping here provides a highly rewarding, quiet moment of reflection.
hidden gem view
1093mFeast of St. Francis
This deeply moving religious festival honors St. Francis, the beloved patron saint of both Assisi and the entire nation of Italy. Spanning two days, the town is filled with pilgrims, high ranking clergy, and national dignitaries who gather to pay their respects. The event features incredibly solemn and beautiful liturgical ceremonies held at the grand Basilica of San Francesco. Beyond the religious services, there are civic manifestations and a palpable sense of national pride and unity in the air. Lighting displays and special choirs make the atmosphere deeply spiritual and emotionally resonant. It is a remarkable time to witness the profound enduring legacy of the saint in his hometown.
festival view
1138mOratory of the Pilgrims
Tucked away quietly on Via San Francesco, this incredibly small 15th century chapel is a true hidden treasure box of Renaissance art. Originally serving as a hospice to shelter weary pilgrims traveling to the saint's tomb, the room is entirely covered in breathtaking, vibrant frescoes. The incredibly detailed paintings by local masters Matteo da Gualdo and Pier Antonio Mezzastris vividly depict scenes from the lives of St. Anthony the Abbot and St. James of Compostela. Because it is only open for a few hours a day and frequently skipped by large tour groups, it offers a deeply peaceful, intimate viewing experience. It frequently hosts quiet Eucharistic adoration, enhancing the profound spiritual atmosphere of the space. It is a stunning, highly rewarding stop for art lovers seeking masterful works away from the massive crowds.
highlight view
1141mLower Sanctuary Approach
The grand, sweeping approach to the Lower Basilica from the Piazza Inferiore offers one of the most incredibly dramatic, heavily photographed perspectives in Italy. The long, incredibly elegant Renaissance colonnade beautifully frames the imposing, fortress like facade of the church and its magnificent rose window. Photographers are particularly drawn here in the early morning when the deep shadows create an intense, moody atmosphere against the ancient stone. Capturing the incredibly long lines of the arches leading the eye directly to the dark, mysterious entrance is an absolute compositional dream. It is the definitive, iconic shot that perfectly captures the monumental gravity of Assisi.
photo spot view
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