Assisi and the Second World War – Heroes by chance and by vocation

If you’re planning a trip to Assisi and want to go beyond the usual religious sites, the tour titled “Assisi and the Second World War – Heroes by chance and by vocation” could offer a unique perspective. It focuses on a lesser-told chapter of the town’s history, centered around the brave actions of men and women during the turbulent years of 1943-45. While it’s not a deep-dive into every aspect of WWII, it spotlights the inspiring stories of those who risked everything for others, amid a dark and challenging period.

What we really appreciate about this experience is its focus on individual heroism and personal stories, which add a human layer often missing from broader historical tours. Plus, the tour’s stops include significant local sites, like the Cathedral of San Rufino and the Basilica di Santa Chiara, that help connect the historical dots with real places you can see and feel. However, a potential drawback is that the tour is quite specialized and short—lasting around 2 to 3 hours—which might limit the broader context of Assisi’s artistic treasures and religious heritage.

This tour feels most suited for those with an interest in history, especially stories of courage and resilience during WWII. It’s also a good choice if you’re keen to explore Assisi through a different lens, appreciating its more nuanced and personal stories rather than just the religious landmarks. Keep in mind, it’s a private experience, so it’s tailored for smaller groups or individual travelers looking for a more intimate insight.

Key Points

• Focused on WWII heroism: Highlights stories of men and women who risked their lives during 1943-45.
• Includes notable sites: Visits to the Cathedral of San Rufino and Basilica di Santa Chiara provide historical context.
• Authentic local stories: Features places like the monastery where persecuted people found refuge, adding emotional depth.
• Short but meaningful: The entire experience lasts around 2-3 hours, perfect for those with limited time.
• Private and flexible: Customizable timing and meeting points allow for a personalized experience.
• Cost-effective for small groups: At around $243 for up to 6 people, the price reflects an intimate, curated tour.

Getting to Know the Itinerary

Stop 1: Cathedral of San Rufino

Your journey begins at this Romanesque marvel, the only church in Assisi that also serves as the tomb for local bishops, including Bishop Placido Nicolini. We loved the way this church anchors the town’s spiritual and historic vibe. Inside, you can appreciate its architecture and reflect on its importance as a witness to many of the city’s stories, including those from WWII. Since the admission is included, it’s an easy, hassle-free start.

Stop 2: Basilica di Santa Chiara

Next, you move to the Basilica di Santa Chiara, a church with strong ties to the city’s history. The square outside was once the hub of the Brizi printers, who played a role in the story the tour tells. This area acts as a visual and emotional bridge from the religious to the personal stories of heroism. With only about 10 minutes here, it’s a brief stop but meaningful, especially if you’re interested in local craftsmanship and history. Entrance is included.

Stop 3: Museo della Memoria

This is a highlight—an unusual, almost magical space filled with photos, videos, and documents that reconstruct Assisi’s WWII story. We found it to be an effective way of visualizing the events and characters that shaped this part of the town’s history. As this part isn’t included in the price, budget a small additional fee if you want to explore it thoroughly. It’s a moving experience, giving you a tangible connection to the past.

Stop 4: Monastero Clarisse S. Quirico

One of the most touching stops, this monastery sheltered displaced and persecuted people during the war. The nuns’ hospitality was remarkable—it became a refuge for families for months at a time. If available, talking to a nun can add an authentic voice to the story. The calmness of this place contrasts with the chaos of war, emphasizing the quiet heroism of those who opened their doors. Admission is included.

Stop 5: Passage Road

This is a more personal stop—where one of the real protagonists of the story lived. It’s a quiet moment to imagine the lives being lived during those years, grounding the tour in real human experience.

Stop 6: Piazza del Comune & Marco Zubboli Library

Ending the tour in the lively Piazza del Comune, you’ll visit an artisan shop where traditional crafts are still made. The connection between past and present is palpable here, with some visitors appreciating the blend of history and liveliness. Finally, at the Marco Zubboli library, you can see the care that goes into preserving Assisi’s stories through old tools and crafts, adding a tactile layer to the experience.

Practical Details & What to Expect

This private tour is priced at about $243.10 for up to six people, which makes it quite reasonable if you’re traveling with a small group or family. It lasts roughly 2 to 3 hours, a manageable chunk if you’re tight on time or want a focused experience. The tour includes mobile tickets, allowing for easy access and flexibility with meeting points—though the starting point is at the Parcheggio B Assisi, with the ending at the Piazza del Comune.

The guide’s knowledge is generally praised, though some reviews note that her talk can feel a bit disjointed, and she might not always immediately grasp questions. This is something to keep in mind if you’re a curious traveler hungry for in-depth stories. Also, access to the Museum of Memory costs a small extra fee (€3 per person), which is worth considering for those wanting a full picture.

Since the experience is private, your group’s interests can shape the pacing and focus. This is a plus if you want a more personalized discussion or specific questions answered.

The Balance of Pros and Cons

The main strength of this tour lies in its intimate storytelling and authentic sites. You’ll walk away with a sense of the personal bravery that shaped Assisi during WWII, brought to life through carefully selected locations and stories. The inclusion of actual places where heroes lived and hid makes the history real and relatable.

However, it’s important to note that the tour does not cover Assisi’s artistic treasures or religious icons in depth. If your main goal is sightseeing of the Basilica of St. Francis or other major art sites, this tour might feel limited in scope. Also, the 2-3 hour length, while ideal for a quick yet meaningful visit, might leave those wanting a more comprehensive historical experience a bit underwhelmed.

Some travelers, like Debra, mentioned that the guide was informative but a little disjointed, and that the tour didn’t leave ample time for exploring the town’s famous sights. Conversely, others, like Sherry, appreciated the opportunity to learn about the local heroes and found the stories deeply moving.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re interested in lesser-known stories of heroism and want to see Assisi through a different lens, this tour offers an engaging and heartfelt experience. It’s ideal for history buffs, those curious about WWII, and visitors who prefer a more personalized, quiet exploration rather than a large group rush. It suits travelers who appreciate authentic local stories and are comfortable with a moderate walking pace and some emotional moments.

It’s also suitable for those who want a flexible tour, as the timings and meeting points can be customized. However, if your focus is mainly on religious art and architecture, you might want to combine this with other visits to get the full Assisi experience.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not specifically designed for kids, it’s a relatively gentle walk around town, and the stories can be engaging for older children interested in history. Just keep in mind the emotional content related to WWII.

How long does the tour last?
Typically around 2 to 3 hours, making it a concise but impactful experience.

What’s included in the price?
Guided visits to key sites, the initial meeting point, and entrance to some locations like the Cathedral of San Rufino and the monastery. The Museum of Memory costs extra (€3).

Can I change the meeting point or time?
Yes, the tour offers flexibility for scheduling and location, which can be confirmed upon booking.

Is this a group or private experience?
It’s a private tour, so only your group will participate, allowing for a more personal experience.

What if I want to see more of Assisi’s art and religious sites?
This tour doesn’t cover the major basilicas or art-focused sights. Consider combining it with other tours or self-guided visits.

How physically demanding is the tour?
Moderate physical fitness is recommended; expect some walking and standing, but no strenuous activity.

What’s the value of this tour?
For the price, you get a focused, emotionally resonant experience with knowledgeable guides, which can be very rewarding if you’re interested in WWII stories.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some peace of mind in planning.

In the end, this tour offers a meaningful glimpse into Assisi’s more personal history during WWII. It’s best suited for those who want to connect with the human stories behind the town’s historical façade, in an intimate and flexible setting. While it’s not a comprehensive sightseeing tour, it can add a profound layer to your visit and possibly inspire a new appreciation for Assisi’s resilience and the quiet acts of heroism that took place there.