Your family adventure in Assisi should begin with a visit to the Basilica of St. Francis, which is the heart and soul of this city. This impressive temple, consisting of two levels, is a true jewel of Italian architecture. The lower church, with its dark, mystical interiors, hides the tomb of St. Francis, making it a particularly important place for pilgrims. The upper basilica impresses with its bright spaces and Giotto frescoes depicting scenes from the saint's life. This is an excellent opportunity to tell children the fascinating story of Francis and his love of nature.

Another important point on the map of your trip should be the Basilica of St. Clare. This Gothic temple, although it may seem less grand from the outside, hides extraordinary treasures. Inside is the original crucifix from San Damiano, before which St. Francis prayed when he heard the voice of God calling him to 'rebuild the Church.' In the basilica's crypt rests the body of St. Clare, Francis' spiritual daughter and closest collaborator. This is the perfect place to tell children about the friendship and cooperation of these two saints.

You also can't miss the Church of St. Rufinus, which is the cathedral of Assisi. It was here that both St. Francis and St. Clare were baptized. The church's Romanesque façade with its beautiful carvings and rosettes is sure to impress the whole family. Inside, you can see the original baptismal font where the saints were baptized, which provides an excellent opportunity to talk to children about the meaning of baptism and the beginning of the spiritual journey.

When comparing the three churches, it is worth noting their architectural and historical diversity. The Basilica of St. Francis, with its two-story structure and rich frescoes, offers the most comprehensive artistic and spiritual experience. The Basilica of St. Clare, though smaller, has a more intimate character and is strongly associated with the life of the Poor Clare order. The Church of St. Rufinus, as the oldest of the three churches, allows you to be transported back to a time before the birth of St. Francis and understand the context in which he grew up.

All of these places are free to visit, which is a big plus for families with children. However, be aware that they can be crowded during holiday periods. Therefore, it is advisable to plan your visit in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the most crowded and hot weather. Also, remember to dress appropriately - shoulders and knees should be covered in respect for the sacred nature of these sites.

After visiting the main basilicas, it's time to explore the lesser-known but equally fascinating sites associated with the life of St. Francis. One such place is the Basilica of Our Lady of the Angels, located in the valley below Assisi. It is here that the famous Portiuncula is located - a small chapel that St. Francis rebuilt with his own hands and which became the cradle of the Franciscan order. Inside the huge basilica that was built around the Portiuncula, children can feel like explorers as they search for the little church hidden under the dome. It's the perfect place to tell the little ones about how great things can start with small gestures.

Not far from the city center is San Damiano - the place where it all began. It was here that young Francis heard the voice of God calling him to renew the Church. Today, this peaceful shrine offers a moment of respite from the hustle and bustle of the city. Here children can see what life was like for the first Franciscans and Poor Clares. Note the beautiful garden and cloisters, where you can have a little game of hide-and-seek or just relax in the shade of the trees.

For more adventurous families, we recommend a trip to the Erem of Carceri. This is a place located on the hillside of Monte Subasio, where St. Francis and his companions went for prayer and meditation. The road to the erem may be a bit challenging for the little ones, but the views and atmosphere of the place will certainly reward the effort. This is an excellent opportunity to show children how important it is sometimes to isolate themselves from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and find time for reflection.

When comparing the three places, it is worth noting their diversity and specificity. The Basilica of Our Lady of the Angels is the largest and most impressive, offering a fascinating history of the Portiuncula. San Damiano is an intimate and peaceful place, ideal for families looking for a moment of relaxation. Erem Carceri, on the other hand, is a true adventure, combining spirituality with active recreation.

In terms of accessibility, the Basilica of Our Lady of the Angels is the most easily accessible - it can be reached by bus from the center of Assisi. San Damiano requires a short walk from the city, which can be an attraction in itself. The Erem Carceri is the farthest away and requires access by car or a longer walk, something to consider when planning a trip with young children.

All of these sites are free to visit, which is a big plus for families. However, it's worth remembering that they may have limited opening hours, especially during the winter. That's why it's a good idea to check up-to-date information on official websites before visiting.

Regardless of which of these places you choose, each offers a unique experience and an opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of the life and spirituality of St. Francis. It's not only a lesson in history and religion, but also an opportunity for family conversations about the values, simplicity of life and respect for nature that were so dear to the Poverello of Assisi.

After visiting the main shrines associated with St. Francis, take time to explore the lesser-known but equally fascinating corners of Assisi. An excellent place to start this part of the tour is the Piazza del Comune, the city's main square. This is the heart of medieval Assisi, where you can feel the true atmosphere of an Italian town. The square is surrounded by beautiful townhouses, and in its center is a fountain where children can cool off on hot days. It's the perfect place for a family break, get an ice cream at one of the local ice cream parlors and observe the daily life of the people of Assisi.

The Piazza del Comune is also home to the Chiesa di Santa Maria sopra Minerva, a church that is a fascinating example of the fusion of ancient Roman culture and Christianity. The façade of the church is the preserved front of the temple of the Roman goddess Minerva, which provides an excellent opportunity to tell children about Italian history and cultural change. The interior of the church, in contrast to the ancient facade, is in the Baroque style, which creates an interesting contrast and can be a starting point for a conversation about different architectural styles.

Not far from the main square is the Chiesa Nuova di San Francesco Convertito, or 'New Church of St. Francis the Convert'. This is a special place, as it was built on the site of St. Francis' family home. Inside the church you can see parts of the original walls of the house where the future saint grew up. This is an excellent opportunity to tell children about Francis' youth, his life as the son of a wealthy merchant, and how he decided to give up a comfortable life to serve God and the poor.

Comparing the three sites, each offers a different aspect of Assisi's history and culture. Piazza del Comune is the living heart of the city, the perfect place to relax and observe daily life. Chiesa di Santa Maria sopra Minerva is a fascinating blend of antiquity and Christianity that may interest older children and teenagers. The Chiesa Nuova, on the other hand, allows you to delve into the personal history of St. Francis and better understand his life path.

In terms of accessibility, all of these places are located in the center of Assisi and are easily accessible on foot. Piazza del Comune is open all the time and does not require an entrance ticket. The churches have specific opening hours, but admission is free. However, it is worth remembering that they may be temporarily closed to tourists during festive periods or during important religious ceremonies.

At the end of the day, after visiting these lesser-known but equally fascinating sites, return to the Piazza del Comune. On warm evenings, the square is bustling with activity, with concerts or performances often taking place here. This is a great opportunity to take stock of the day's impressions, dine in one of the surrounding restaurants and enjoy the true Italian atmosphere.

Remember that visiting Assisi is not a race. It is worth finding time to take leisurely strolls through narrow streets, explore hidden alleys and enjoy local specialties. It is these moments that often become the most treasured memories of family trips. Assisi, with its rich history, beautiful architecture and spiritual atmosphere, is a place that is sure to delight both adults and children, leaving unforgettable impressions for years to come.