Perugia

When we drove into Sulmona last night it was dark. So this morning we woke up to mountains. This area is surrounded by beautiful green mountains. The mountain range is called the Apennines. After our breakfast at our hotel to started driving towards Mount Sibillini. Near the town of Assisi. It looked like a cool mountain to explore and had lots of drivable roads around the mountain. But the rain got heavier as we approached the mountain. We decided to stop for lunch and see if the rain would let up. We found a cute trattoria along the road and knew it was going to be good when the fire truck was parked here. If the local municipal workers eat here that’s a good sign.
After lunch we decided to change course and drive to Assisi instead. This town is of course famous for its connection to St. Francis of Assisi. There is a huge basilica there dedicated to St. Francis. It is also where he is buried. The basilica is beautiful. Its 3 stories. St. Francis tomb was built underground, in a circular room and it has its own alter and alcoves and pews to pray surrounding the tomb. There is a oil fueled hanging lantern that stays lit all year long. The oil is given to the church from a different region in Italy each year. The 1st floor basilica is dark and windowless but was the most beautiful in my opinion. We were told that long ago when it was only eliminated by oil flames. Its very dark and mysterious. It was meant to make you think deeper about your journey with God.
The upper basilica is filled with stained glass windows and a huge arched ceiling. On all the Walls of the upper basilica the walls are covered with frescos each one depreciating the life of St. Francis from birth to death. The upper basilica is meant to have you feel uplifted and create a positive spiritual connection to God.
St. Francis is the patron saint of Italy. The basilica was built two years after St. Francis death. So very quickly. Construction began in 1228. Finished in 1253. The city of Assisi is preserved in its medieval era. There is a lot to see in Assisi. In better weather, its a beautiful city to explore all the different churches and monuments dedicated to St. Francis.
We arrived in the town of Perugia. The rain did not let up. We took the car and drove to dinner at a cute pizzeria. The pizza was delicious! On to tomorrow….Lue lisää