Eremo delle Carceri & Monte Subasio
Eremo delle Carceri
A quiet hermitage in the forest of Monte Subasio. The caves where Saint Francis often prayed in solitude are still preserved, and mountain trails offer wide views.
The Eremo delle Carceri lies in the forest of Monte Subasio, about 4 km east of Assisi at an elevation of roughly 790 meters. Saint Francis and his early companions prayed and meditated in its caves. In the 15th century Saint Bernardino built a small monastery here. Today the stone-bed cave where the saint slept and the ancient holm oak woodland are still preserved. Entry is free, and it is open about 6:30–19:00. Visitors should keep quiet. You can walk up from the Porta Cappuccini in the old town in about 1 to 1.5 hours (the climb is steep), or take a taxi. Further up the road is the grassy summit area of Monte Subasio.
Opening hours
Approx. 06:30–19:00 (shorter in winter)
Nearby sights
- San Damiano (Assisi)
- Assisi Cathedral (San Rufino)
- Basilica of Saint Clare
- Piazza del Comune & Temple of Minerva
- Rocca Maggiore (Assisi)
- Basilica of Saint Francis of Assisi
- Basilica of Santa Maria degli Angeli
- Spello