Hidden Monasteries and Cloisters
Self-Guided TourThis tranquil journey explores the quieter, more contemplative spaces defined by the city's robust monastic traditions, heavily focusing on the legacy of St. Clare and other secluded orders. It moves away from the grand, bustling tourist epicentres into peaceful courtyards and hidden chapels characterized by deep silence. Explorers will discover stunning examples of Gothic and Romanesque architecture designed specifically to foster quiet reflection and prayer. The atmosphere throughout is one of intense serenity and devotion. It is an essential route for travellers seeking to genuinely experience the profound spiritual quietude that has defined the city for centuries.
SURFACE BREAKDOWN
ELEVATION PROFILE
WHY WE LOVE THIS ROUTE
It offers a deeply peaceful, introspective experience that highlights the vital, ongoing monastic life of the city, contrasting beautifully with the crowded, monumental basilicas.
KNOW BEFORE YOU GO
- • Plan to pass by the Monastery of St. Quirico around 6 PM if you wish to respectfully observe the sisters during their evening prayers.
- • Take a moment to sit quietly in the Piazza outside Santa Chiara; the view of the valley from here is incredibly meditative.
- 1WAYPOINT
Quiet Cloisters
I CHIOSTRI SILENZIOSIBeautiful, shaded internal courtyards lined with elegant stone columns, designed specifically for silent, walking meditation away from the distractions of the outside world.
to next stop - 2ATTRACTION
Basilica of Santa Chiara
BASILICA DI SANTA CHIARAA strikingly beautiful, massive pink and white stone church housing the miraculously speaking crucifix and the physical remains of the founder of the Poor Clares.
FULL PLACE DETAILS
OVERVIEW & STATS
- Established
- In 1257, making it 769 years old
ARCHITECTURE & HERITAGE
- Heritage Status
- Italian National HeritagePart Of Unesco World Heritage Site
- Architectural Styles
- Gothic
WEB & AMENITIES
to next stop - 3HIDDEN GEM
Monastery of St. Quirico
MONASTERO DI SAN QUIRICOA heavily secluded, actively functioning monastery where visitors can occasionally hear the ethereal, beautiful chanting of the cloistered Poor Clare nuns during their daily prayers.
to next stop - 4HIGHLIGHT
Church of San Pietro
CHIESA DI SAN PIETROA magnificent, incredibly atmospheric Benedictine abbey featuring a fascinating museum and an interior far more beautiful and complex than its austere facade suggests.
FULL PLACE DETAILS
ARCHITECTURE & HERITAGE
- Heritage Status
- Italian National Heritage
- Architectural Styles
- Romanesque
Other Self-Guided Tours
Check out other routes in Assisi
In the Footsteps of St. Francis
This profoundly moving narrative journey tracks the life, transformation, and eventual canonisation of one of history's most famous spiritual figures. The route traces his path from a wealthy, carefree youth born in a humble stable, to his dramatic rejection of materialism, and finally to his magnificent, monumental resting place. Walking this path allows travellers to physically follow the emotional and spiritual arc of his incredible story. It provides deep context to the magnificent art and architecture that defines the city today. It is a compelling experience for history buffs and spiritual seekers alike, bringing the legend of the saint vividly to life through the stones of his hometown.
view route
Roman Assisi Beneath the Surface
Long before medieval monks walked these hills, the prosperous Roman municipality of Asisium thrived here, and this tour uncovers its astonishingly intact remnants. The journey highlights the incredible architectural layering of the city, showing how medieval structures were literally built upon classical foundations. Explorers will marvel at massive columns, hidden underground administrative centres, and the ghosts of ancient entertainment venues. It reveals a completely different, pagan facet of a city so globally famous for its Christian heritage. It is an absolutely fascinating dive into archaeology and the enduring resilience of ancient engineering.
view route
Alternative Ways to Tour the City
Switch your pace. Discover curated routes by bike, foot, or self-guided exploration.
Descent from Rocca Maggiore
This magnificent stroll begins at the highest point of the city, offering a sweeping, bird's eye perspective before guiding you down through layers of history. Walking downwards means you avoid the strenuous uphill climb while still experiencing the dramatic, winding medieval alleyways. The path reveals incredible architectural transitions, from austere military fortifications down to elegant civic squares and religious monuments. Every turn presents a new, breathtaking framing of the valley below or a sudden, dramatic reveal of a hidden courtyard. It is a visually arresting walk that perfectly encapsulates the multi layered history of the hilltop town.
Assisi to Spello Vineyard Route
This stunning ride connects the lower plains of Assisi to the incredibly charming, flower filled town of Spello. The route glides along relatively quiet country roads, flanked by silver olive groves and rows of manicured grapevines. It offers a glorious, uninterrupted view of the Umbrian hills and allows riders to soak in the rural agricultural beauty of the region. The journey is visually spectacular and incredibly peaceful, with the scent of wild herbs often hanging in the air. It is the perfect half day excursion for those wanting to combine light exercise with breathtaking landscapes.