Viale Patrono d’Italia, 06081 Santa Maria degli Angeli PG, Italy (September 2020)

Santa Maria degli Angeli

Santa Maria degli Angeli is a historic town located in the heart of Umbria, in central Italy, just a short distance from Assisi. Closely connected to the life and legacy of Saint Francis of Assisi, the town holds deep religious, cultural, and spiritual significance and is one of the most important pilgrimage destinations in Italy. Set on the Umbrian plain at the foot of Mount Subasio, Santa Maria degli Angeli combines sacred heritage with a welcoming, lived-in urban character.

The town developed primarily around the Basilica of Santa Maria degli Angeli, an imposing Renaissance church that houses the Porziuncola, the small chapel where Saint Francis founded the Franciscan Order in the early 13th century. This humble structure, preserved inside the vast basilica, is considered one of the most sacred places in Franciscan tradition. Nearby are other important sites linked to Saint Francis, including the Cappella del Transito, where he is believed to have died. These landmarks make Santa Maria degli Angeli a focal point for pilgrims from around the world seeking reflection, faith, and historical understanding.

Despite its strong religious identity, Santa Maria degli Angeli is not solely a spiritual center. The town has grown into a lively community with residential neighbourhoods, shops, cafés, and services that support both locals and visitors. Its flat layout contrasts with the hilltop setting of Assisi, giving it a more open and accessible feel. Broad streets and piazzas create a sense of space and ease, while the constant flow of pilgrims adds an international dimension to everyday life.

The surrounding landscape contributes greatly to the town’s appeal. Fields, olive groves, and gentle countryside stretch across the Umbrian plain, while views of Assisi’s medieval walls rising above provide a dramatic and symbolic backdrop. Walking and cycling routes connect Santa Maria degli Angeli to nearby towns and natural areas, offering opportunities to explore the region at a relaxed pace.

Cultural life in Santa Maria degli Angeli is shaped by both religious events and local traditions. Major Franciscan celebrations, feast days, and processions bring the town to life throughout the year, while markets, festivals, and community gatherings reflect its Umbrian roots. Local cuisine emphasizes simplicity and quality, featuring regional products such as olive oil, legumes, cured meats, and handmade pasta.

Today, Santa Maria degli Angeli serves as a gateway to Assisi and the wider Umbrian region. Well connected by rail and road, it offers a practical base for exploring nearby historic towns while maintaining its own distinct identity. Balancing deep spiritual heritage with contemporary daily life, Santa Maria degli Angeli stands as a place of encounter—between past and present, faith and community, tranquillity and quiet vitality.

Worth a Visit

Photo Gallery of Walk – Via S. Bernardino Da Siena to Viale Patrono d’Italia
Approximately 2.38 km – 1.48 miles

The walk starts in Via S. Bernardino Da Siena – Viale Patrono d’Italia – Piazza Porziuncola – Basilica di Santa Maria degli Angeli, Piazza Porziuncola – Piazza Porziuncola – Via Alcide De Gasperi – Via Giovanni Becchetti – Piazza Garibaldi – Via Suor Maria Giuseppa Micarelli – Via della Repubblica – Via Giovanni Becchetti – Piazza Garibaldi – Viale Patrono d’Italia – Viale Giosuè Carducci – Stazione, Viale Giosuè Carducci – Walk back to Viale Patrono d’Italia – Viale Patrono d’Italia