Religious site
Eremo delle Carceri
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Perched on the slopes of Mount Subasio, the Eremo delle Carceri is a serene hermitage that offers a glimpse into the spiritual life of St. Francis of Assisi. Surrounded by dense woodland, this complex of small caves and chapels was where Francis and his early companions would withdraw from the world to pray and meditate. The site is remarkably unspoiled, with simple stone buildings blending into the natural landscape. Visitors can explore the tiny cells, the grotto where Francis prayed, and the church with its rustic frescoes. The atmosphere is one of profound stillness, broken only by birdsong and rustling leaves. The hermitage is reached via a winding road from Assisi, and the journey itself feels like a pilgrimage. It is a place for quiet reflection, not a bustling tourist attraction, making it ideal for those seeking a spiritual or contemplative experience.
Don't miss
- The tiny cave where St. Francis prayed and slept
- The simple Romanesque church with 15th-century frescoes
- The peaceful woodland paths for quiet walks
- The refectory and cloister with a well
- Panoramic views over the Spoleto Valley from the terrace
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