Assisi

The serene hilltop birthplace of St. Francis

Clinging to the slopes of Mount Subasio like something from a medieval painting, Assisi spills down the hillside in waves of honey-coloured stone. This place is holy, and pilgrim feet have spent 800 years wearing its cobblestones smooth.

The town belongs, in spirit at least, to St Francis. Born here in 1181, he was the son of a wealthy cloth merchant who seemed destined for a comfortable life. Instead, he gave it all up. He chose poverty and began preaching a simple message – peace and love for all creation.

One of the most famous buildings here is the Basilica of San Francesco. Dominating the western edge of Assisi, this two-tiered marvel is a stunning place of worship as well as an important pilgrimage destination.

St Francis himself is buried in the crypt below, a simple tomb that draws visitors from across the world. Entry is free, but dress modestly and keep voices low. This is still a working place of worship.

Wander the narrow lanes of the town itself and you'll find archways that frame glimpses of the valley below. Washing hanging between ancient walls. Cats dozing in pools of afternoon sun.

The views are extraordinary. On a clear day, the Umbrian plains stretch out below like a patchwork quilt with olive groves and vineyard stripes, fading into blue distance.