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

Santa Maria degli Angeli

Santa Maria degli Angeli is a small, yet spiritually significant town located in the region of Umbria, Italy, nestled at the foot of Assisi’s majestic hill. Though modest in size, this town holds a deep religious importance, as it is home to the Basilica of Santa Maria degli Angeli, one of the most revered pilgrimage sites in the world for Catholics. The town’s serene atmosphere, historical relevance, and connection to Saint Francis of Assisi make it a remarkable destination for travellers seeking both spiritual enrichment and a glimpse into Italy’s rich religious heritage. Located just 4 kilometres from Assisi, Santa Maria degli Angeli is a gateway to the larger and more famous city of Saint Francis. However, the town stands out for its own profound significance. Its name, “Saint Mary of the Angels,” comes from the basilica that dominates the town’s landscape. This imposing basilica, with its simple yet grand design, was built in the 16th century to shelter a much smaller and holier building: the Porziuncola, a small chapel that is one of the most sacred places in the Franciscan world. The Porziuncola, found inside the Basilica of Santa Maria degli Angeli, is the original tiny church where Saint Francis of Assisi began his spiritual journey and founded the Franciscan Order in the early 13th century. Despite its humble size, the chapel holds immense spiritual weight for millions of pilgrims who visit each year. It is here that Saint Francis received his calling to “rebuild the Church,” which would lead him to establish one of the most influential religious movements in history. Inside the basilica, visitors can also find the Cappella del Transito, the room where Saint Francis passed away in 1226, making the entire site a powerful place for reflection and prayer.

Santa Maria degli Angeli is also significant for the annual celebration of the “Perdono di Assisi” (Pardon of Assisi), a religious feast that draws thousands of pilgrims from all over the world. Every August, the town is filled with worshippers who come to receive the indulgence that Saint Francis himself requested from the Pope, allowing the faithful to be forgiven for their sins by visiting the Porziuncola. This tradition has continued for centuries, making the basilica and the town an essential stop for those on a spiritual journey. Beyond its religious significance, Santa Maria degli Angeli offers a peaceful setting that complements its spiritual importance. Surrounded by the rolling green hills of Umbria, the town provides a tranquil retreat for visitors. The town’s central piazza, with views of the grand basilica, is a place where locals and tourists alike gather, enjoying the simple pleasures of life in a small Italian town. Local cafes, trattorias, and shops offer a taste of traditional Umbrian cuisine, with ingredients like olive oil, truffles, and homemade pastas taking centre stage. Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks through the town’s streets, taking in the natural beauty and slow pace that characterize this region of Italy. In addition to its proximity to Assisi, Santa Maria degli Angeli serves as a convenient base for exploring the wider region of Umbria, often referred to as the “green heart of Italy.” From here, visitors can easily venture to other nearby historic towns such as Perugia, Spello, and Spoleto, each offering their own blend of art, history, and culture. The Umbrian countryside, with its vineyards, olive groves, and medieval villages, provides a picturesque backdrop for those looking to immerse themselves in Italy’s rural charm. Santa Maria degli Angeli is a place where history, spirituality, and natural beauty converge. Whether you are a pilgrim seeking a deeper connection to the legacy of Saint Francis or a traveller in search of peace and reflection, this small town offers an experience that is both moving and unforgettable. Its sacred sites, tranquil atmosphere, and access to the best of Umbria make it a destination worth exploring on any journey to Italy.

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