The Assisi Cathedral is known for having been the place of the baptism of Saint Francis in 1182 and Saint Clare in 1193. In addition, it was in this cathedral where Saint Francis performed much of his preachings. However, to this day, the Assisi Cathedral is still the Cathedral of “San Rufino”. Continue reading “Assisi Cathedral, Italy”
As in many cities and towns around the world, in the Italian city of Assisi, all life social, political and cultural activity takes place around its main square, the “Piazza del Comune”. In many cultures it is also known as the “Piazza del Popolo” both in reference to the common folk and in reference to the people. Continue reading “Assisi and its Piazza del Comune”
After visiting the “Basilica di Santa Chiara” in Assisi, Italy, and heading towards the “Piazza Comune”, we encountered the “Chiesa Nuova”, a modest temple built in 1615. It is given the name of “Chiesa Nuova ”or“ New Church ”, being the temple most recently constructed at that time. Continue reading “The New Church – Assisi”
In our trips, we have had the opportunity to spend many night in hotels, hostels, B&Bs, etc. Some well known and others unknown. Although it is not our custom to write-up the places where we have stayed, this time we will make an exception. Continue reading “Assisi – Hotel Ideale”
Opposite the Basilica of San Francesco and at the other end of Assisi, Italy, is the “Basilica di Santa Chiara” or Basilica of Saint Clair. “Chiara Offreduccio” was the eldest daughter of the Count of Sasso-Rosso and as well being a follower of and protected by “San Francesco”. In the 13th century she founded the Order of Saint Clair, originally under the name of the Order of the Poor Ladies of Saint Damian, in a manner much like the Franciscan monks. Continue reading ““Basilica di Santa Chiara” – Assisi”
In the hills of Umbria, Italy, and less than 160 kilometers north of Rome, stands the medieval city of Assisi. This was the birthplace of Francesco di Pietro di Bernardone (baptized as Giovanni di Pietro) from the 12th century and which became known as Saint Francis of Assisi.
In 1173, Assisi was occupied by the Germans. It is then that a castle is built above this Italian city, on the slopes of Mount “Subasio” of the “Apennine” mountain range. It would serve as a fort to protect a future emperor. This castle is known as “Rocca Maggiore” (The Rock). The heir and future Roman emperor, Fredrik II, was just an infant when during a civil revolt of the town of Assisi in 1198, his entourage left the castle taking the child. During this revolt, the “Rocca Maggiore” suffered considerable damage. Continue reading “The “Rocca Maggiore” – Assisi”