We started our day with a bus ride at 9:30 to the small town of Assisi. Leaving the bus, the immediate feel of the town was that of one with great historical and cultural significance. More than any other town we have visited thus far, the Catholic religion remains heavily integrated in not only the general friendly attitude but also the deep respect of the history. There was a beautiful sense of reverence throughout our tour of the St. Francis and St. Clare Basilicas. It was evident that the atmosphere of the town was centered around the devotion exemplified by these two great saints.
We first visited St. Clare’s Basilica, learning of the calling she felt to follow in the footsteps of St. Francis and surrender her life to Christ. Not only was she the first woman to start a religious order, the Poor Clares, but it was also evident that she evoked an overwhelming sense of peace to those she encountered in her lifetime, a feeling that lingered within Santa Chiara. In addition to the overall stillness and peace that dwelled within the church, another highlight was seeing the contrast of the two sides. One was centered around the famous Crucifix of St. Damian, exhibiting Christ alive on the cross, depicting the triumph of the resurrection and His divine nature, while the other showed Christ in his suffering, depicting His human nature. It was easy to see how the Basilica would be a beautiful place of meditation for the many pilgrimages that take place in Assisi.
Meanwhile, in the opposite corner of the charming city, the breathtaking frescoes spanning the walls of St. Francis basilica created a unique allure, drawing you into his life on earth. For many, it created a time of reflection, as we were able to see the storyline unfold, noting the visions, miracles, and even the stigmata that occurred as St. Francis’s heart was transformed, taking a vow of poverty and leaving the riches of his past life behind. Through the foundation of the Franciscan order, he was able to invite others into the life of poverty and spread the joy of Christ. It was incredibly powerful to witness the tremendous impact of his actions, sharing the message of the Gospel and encountering the poor, sick, and hungry, which the Franciscan Friars continue to this day. Additionally, St. Francis invited a special perspective of seeing nature as God’s gift to us. Putting on this lens, I took a new attitude towards my surroundings as we left the tour. The faint details of the scenery began to jump out, as I noticed the vibrant flowers lining the windowsills, the mystical haze of the fog like a stroke of paint brushed across the sun as it set, and the freshness of the crisp mountain air.
After the tour, the students had a relaxing evening. Many went up the mountain and enjoyed their free time watching the sunset next to the historic ruins. Dinner was at the leisure of each group. Personally, I enjoyed a steak dinner near the town square, however the town’s diverse selection of delicious food would leave even the pickiest of eaters satisfied. All things considered, the students enjoyed a truly enlightening day through one of the most culturally enriched towns in Italy, continuing our developing understanding of Italian values as a whole as well as the art which represents those values. We can’t wait to explore the wonders of Rome next, and we are trying to cherish the fleeting days of this incredible experience!
Ciao,
Riley and Mac
