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Church · Assis, Úmbria
Eremo delle Carceri
Hermitage in the woods of Monte Subasio, about 4 km above Assis, where Francisco and his companions withdrew to pray in caves. There are trails among the holm oaks.
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 Eremo delle Carceri
The Eremo delle Carceri is located on Monte Subasio, about 4 kilometers from Assis and nearly 800 meters above sea level, in the middle of a holm oak wood. The word carceri here does not mean prison: it indicates isolated places where hermits withdrew.
Francisco and the first companions climbed there to pray in natural caves on the hillside. The visit includes the grotto of San Francisco, with the stone bed where he rested, and small chapels and narrow corridors carved into the rock.
The current convent, small and compact, was built in the 15th century at the initiative of San Bernardino of Siena. Outside it, woodland trails lead to other caves used by Francis's companions and to an old holm oak that tradition links to the sermon to the birds.
The place is cared for by the Franciscan friars and keeps silence as a rule. Walkers can continue along the trails of the Parco del Monte Subasio.
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 1 hour at the hermitage; add travel time, as the walk up takes more than 1 hour on foot.
Best time
In the morning, when the wood is cool and quiet. In winter the road can be icy; check conditions.
How to get there
By taxi or car via the road from Porta Cappuccini, about 15 minutes. On foot, the climb is long and steep—over 1 hour. Parking near the hermitage is limited.
Tip
There is no entrance fee. The grotto corridors are narrow and low. Bring water and sturdy-soled shoes if you plan to walk the woodland trails.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Eremo delle Carceri
Why is the place called Carceri?
The word denotes isolated places of retreat, not prison. It was where Francis and his companions withdrew to pray.
How do you get to the Eremo delle Carceri?
By taxi or car, about 15 minutes from the Porta Cappuccini. On foot, the climb takes more than 1 hour.
Is there an admission fee?
No. The eremo is a sanctuary cared for by the friars.