Scenery

From almost everywhere in Assisi there are magnificent views of the surrounding area. The first full day of the Festival offers a 5-hour tour of Assisi. We use mini-vans to transport everyone to the top of Mt. Subasio (often above the clouds) where it is possible to see Perugia and Lake Trasimeno, which is approximately 25 miles from Assisi.

From there we visit the important historical sights in the life of St. Francis. These include the Hermitage, an oasis of peace and tranquility in the midst of the woods of Mount Subasio where St. Francis would often withdraw to meditate. Then we drive on to San Damiano where it is reported that St. Francis wrote the Canticle of the Creatures.

The tour continues with visits to Rocca Maggiore, Santa Maria Degli Angeli, The Hermitage, San Damiano (photo below) and several other fascinating sites.

Piazza del Commune

Located in the middle of Assisi, and just a few steps from our hotel, is the Piazza del Commune. Shops, restaurants and outdoor cafes offer a convenient spots to meet with friends and discuss life over a glass of wine or a cappucchino. Just take a seat and within a few minutes a familiar face will join you.

The Basilica of San Francesco

The Basilica of St. Francis is the second most important Basilica in Italy, second only to St. Peter's Basilica in Rome. Just being in the Basilica is an experience in itself. The opportunity to sing there is an honor given to the Festival Choir.

The Basilica of Santa Maria Degli Angeli

The dome of Santa Maria is the centerpiece of the magnificent view from Assisi. Inside the basilica is another church known as the Porziuncola, where St. Francis died on October 3rd, 1226.

Santa Chiara

The Basilica of St. Claire is located a few feet from our hotel. In front of the basilica is a beautiful piazza with shops and cafes and a panoramic view of the countryside. St. Claire is buried within the basilica, making this church one of the most important churches in Italy. In the Opera, "il Poverello," composed especially for the Assisi Festival there is a beautiful scene where St. Claire expresses to St. Francis her desire to become a disciple of St. Francis.

Rocca Maggiore

The fortress built to defend Assisi sits above the city higher up the mountain, but a relatively easy walk from the hotel. And, as usual, the views from the "rock" are breath-taking.

Weather

Assisi is situated at an altitude of 1500 feet above sea level. The temperature is always cool at night even during July. Although weather is unpredictable, past experience has proven that during the month of July daytime temperatures in Assisi average in the 80s. Rain is always possible, but is unusual during the summer.

Eating

The difference between a trattoria and a ristorante is formality. Trattorias tend to be less formal. But in either case the food is excellent. Breakfast and dinner are included provided at the Hotel Sole for Festival participants. Lunch is "on your own" every day so you will have the opportunity to try out some of the restaurants and trattorias. But don't worry, you will find that the food everywhere in Assisi is good.

Meditating

With all the activity that goes on during the day there is always a place to find peace and quiet. The terrace of the Hotel Sole is usually unoccupied and offers a beautiful view of the countryside. Several small churches near the hotel provide the perfect atmosphere for personal reflection.

Exercising

No need to go to the gym, although there is one nearby. Assisi is made for walking; nothing is very far from the Hotel Sole. You will find that you need a good pair of walking shoes, though. Also feel free to explore the complex network of hiking trails that begin just outside the city wall.

Spending

There is no problem finding ATM's in Assisi. They allow you to use your ATM card and insure that you receive the best exchange rate.

Shopping

There are many shops in Assisi offering souvenirs of every kind, beautiful embroidery, stationary, books, and many religious articles.

Communicating

A Europe-compatible cell phone it will work perfectly in Assisi (and the rest of Italy). Meanwhile, you will find Internet cafes throughout the city.

Medicating

There are several excellent pharmacies near the Hotel Sole where you will find all the usual items that one needs. More advanced medical attention is available at the hospital in Assisi.