The town of Assisi will forever be associated with its most famous son, Saint Francis, the founder of the Franciscan order and patron of Italy. A town located in the Umbria region of Italy in the province of Perugia, Assisi is also the birthplace of Saint Clare and Saint Gabriel of Our Lady of Sorrows.

The town’s vast collection of medieval art and famous buildings, including the great Basilica di San Francesco, has ensured its inclusion on UNESCO’s World Heritage List and makes it a must-see for travellers. Saint Francis was born to a wealthy family in Assisi and only devoted himself to a life of poverty after hearing a sermon in 1209. Saint Francis wore garments made of rough materials and often preached barefoot to the locals.