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Cathedral · Assis, Úmbria
Cattedrale di San Rufino
Cathedral of Assis, with a Romanesque façade of three rose windows and the font where, according to tradition, Saint Francis and Saint Clare were baptized. It has a museum and an archaeological area.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Cattedrale di San Rufino
The Cattedrale di San Rufino is dedicated to the first bishop and patron of Assis. The current church was begun in 1140, designed by Giovanni da Gubbio, over earlier buildings, and is the city's duomo (cathedral), though less known than the Franciscan basilicas.
The Romanesque façade is one of the most elaborate in Umbria: three rose windows, the central one supported by figures of the evangelists, a portal with carved lions and griffins and bands of animals and plants in stone. Beside it rises the bell tower, supported on a Roman cistern.
The interior was rebuilt in the 16th century. Immediately to the right of the entrance is the baptismal font where, according to tradition, Francis and Clare were baptized. Francis also preached in the cathedral, and Clare lived in her family's house on the square opposite.
Next to the church is the Museo Diocesano, housing works of sacred art, and below it you can visit the crypt of San Rufino and remains of the Roman city. The square in front of the cathedral is one of the most peaceful in Assis.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About 30 minutes for the church; one hour including the museum and the archaeological area.
Best time
In the morning or early afternoon. The square usually has fewer people than those of the basilicas.
How to get there
It is on the Piazza San Rufino, in the upper part of the center, a 5-minute walk from the Piazza del Comune, uphill via the Via di San Rufino.
Tip
Entrance to the church is free; the museum and archaeological area have separate admission. From the square, a short climb leads toward the Rocca Maggiore.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Cattedrale di San Rufino
Why is the cathedral of Assis important for pilgrims?
According to tradition, it was at the cathedral's baptismal font that Saint Francis and Saint Clare were baptized.
Is the Cattedrale di San Rufino the same as the Basilica di San Francesco?
No. San Rufino is the city's cathedral. The Basilica di San Francesco is the shrine with the saint's tomb, at the other end of Assis.
Is there an admission fee?
In the church, no. The diocesan museum and the archaeological area have their own admission.