Why go
These stops show more than a sequence of churches. San Rufino and Piazza del Comune frame Assisi's civic and ancient layers; Saint Clare and Chiesa Nuova draw out the Franciscan story; the Basilica of Saint Francis brings its art and devotion together. Continue to San Pietro if the day allows.
The full story
Start at the Cathedral of San Rufino, then follow Via San Rufino down to Piazza del Comune. The square gathers civic buildings and the church of Santa Maria sopra Minerva, whose Roman columns reveal an earlier layer of the town. From there, Corso Mazzini leads to the Basilica of Saint Clare. Its association with the San Damiano crucifix and the square's view across the valley make it a distinct pause rather than a quick diversion. Return toward the centre for Chiesa Nuova, built at the place traditionally identified with Francis's family home. Then continue west to the Basilica of Saint Francis. Give this complex the largest share of your time: the upper church's frescoes and the lower church with Francis's tomb ask for a slower visit, and worshippers also use the space. The reviewed walk finishes at San Pietro below the basilica. If time or energy is short, make the cathedral, civic square, Saint Clare and Saint Francis the core; leave San Pietro for a longer day. Assisi's stone streets and changes in level are part of the route, so allow room to walk between the buildings rather than counting only time indoors.