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

Discover the Untold WWII Stories in Assisi with a Focus on Courage and Humanity

This private tour in Assisi, priced at $243.10 per group (up to six people), offers a compelling look into a lesser-known chapter of the city’s history during the Second World War. Spanning approximately 2 to 3 hours, the experience guides visitors through key historic locations, revealing stories of heroes by chance and vocation who, inspired by St. Francis, risked their lives to save others. While the tour does not include the major basilicas like St. Francis or St. Clare, it shines a light on the dark yet hopeful moments of 1943-1945, making it perfect for those interested in wartime heroism and local resilience.

The tour is designed for moderate physical fitness and is ideal for visitors eager to explore Assisi’s hidden WWII stories in a private setting, with the flexibility of customized timings. A key strength lies in visits to meaningful sites like the Cathedral of San Rufino and the Museum of Memory, complemented by engaging storytelling about local heroes. However, some may find the disjointed narration a minor downside, and the tour does not cover Assisi’s famed art treasures or basilicas.

Key Points

• Focus on WWII stories, highlighting local heroes active between 1943-1945.
• Private tour with a moderate duration of 2-3 hours.
• Visits include historic locations like San Rufino, Santa Chiara, and the Museum of Memory.
• Cost of $243.10 covers a group of up to 6 people, with flexible meeting points.
• Tour emphasizes history and hope, with optional talks at the monastery and craft shop visits.
• Not suitable for those primarily seeking art or basilica visits but perfect for history enthusiasts.

Explore Assisi’s WWII Heritage at the Cathedral of San Rufino

The tour begins at the Cathedral of San Rufino, a Romanesque church and the only one in Assisi that serves as a burial site for bishops. The visit includes a stop at the tomb of Bishop Placido Nicolini, known for his role during the wartime period. This 20-minute segment sets the stage for understanding the spiritual and moral strength of Assisi’s community during the war, with admission included. The church’s architecture and historical significance provide a quiet but powerful opening to the tour.

This site offers a glimpse into the church’s enduring presence, while also connecting to the wider story of moral courage among Assisi’s religious leaders during difficult times. The admission ticket is included, making it a seamless start.

The Square of Santa Chiara and the Brizi Printers’ Workshop

Next, the tour leads to the Basilica di Santa Chiara and its surrounding square, an important meeting point for the community. Here, travelers learn about the Brizi printers, who played a role in the wartime activities. The square itself served as a connector between various heroes and resistance figures. The short 10-minute stop includes admission tickets and offers a chance to observe the everyday fabric of wartime Assisi, with insights into local resilience.

This segment emphasizes the role of local businesses and artisans in maintaining morale and providing support during difficult times.

The Museum of Memory: Uncovering Hidden Stories

A highlight of the tour is the Museum of Memory, a 50-minute visit that features photos, videos, and documents from Assisi’s wartime period. Although the admission fee is not included (costing 3 euros per person), this place offers a powerful visual narrative of the people, places, and events that shaped Assisi during those years. The displays help narrate stories of heroes who risked everything to save lives, and of ordinary citizens who demonstrated extraordinary courage.

The museum’s interactive exhibits create an engaging way to understand the complexity of wartime Assisi, making it a must-visit for those interested in visual history.

The Monastery of Clarisse S. Quirico: A Refuge for the Persecuted

One of the most moving stops is at the Monastero Clarisse S. Quirico, where dozens of displaced and persecuted individuals found shelter. The nuns’ hospitality was vital, turning the monastery into a temporary “city” for the refugees. The 15-minute visit allows for a possible conversation with a nun if available, offering a personal connection to the acts of kindness and bravery that defined that period.

This location highlights the vocation of service among local religious communities and their role in resistance efforts during the war.

Passage Road: A Home of a War Hero

The tour passes through a passage road, known as the residence of one of the key protagonists in Assisi’s WWII story. Although specific details aren’t provided, this stop offers a personal link to the individual efforts that contributed to saving lives. It serves as a symbolic reminder of the personal sacrifices made by ordinary people in extraordinary circumstances.

Piazza del Comune and the Present-Day Craftsmanship

The Piazza del Comune marks the end of the historical journey, where the story of heroism merges with modern-day tradition. Visitors see handmade products still crafted today, symbolizing continuity and resilience. The 10-minute visit includes a look at a craft shop, blending history with living tradition. This space reflects how culture and craftsmanship survive even after dark times, emphasizing a message of hope.

Touching History at Libreria Marco Zubboli

The tour concludes with a 30-minute visit to the Libreria Marco Zubboli, an atelier where old tools are still used to produce new products. Here, visitors can see and touch the care and craftsmanship that sustain Assisi’s historical legacy. This hands-on experience symbolizes the continuity of tradition and the passion to preserve the city’s cultural identity.

Practicalities: Meeting Points, Inclusions, and Limitations

The tour begins at the Parcheggio B Assisi and ends at Piazza del Comune, making it easy to continue exploring Assisi afterward. This private experience includes guidance through key historic sites and talks at the monastery when available. The admission to the Museum of Memory costs an additional 3 euros, and entrance tickets to specific locations are included, simplifying logistics.

While the tour is designed for moderate physical activity, it does not include transportation, and some may find the narration disjointed, as noted in reviews. It is flexible in timing, and the meeting point can be adjusted upon confirmation.

Who Will Appreciate This Assisi WWII Tour?

This tour appeals most to those interested in local history, wartime heroism, and stories of moral courage. It’s a thought-provoking experience for visitors who want to understand Assisi beyond its art and religious sites, focusing instead on the human stories that shaped its recent past. The private format allows for a personalized touch, but the disjointed narration may require patience from some guests.

Assisi and the WWII Heroes Tour: Final Thoughts

This 2-3 hour journey in Assisi offers a unique perspective on heroism during wartime, with visits to important historic sites and opportunities to connect with stories of kindness and bravery. While it may not cover the town’s art treasures, it compensates with a powerful focus on human resilience and local efforts to preserve life amid chaos.

Suitable for history buffs and those seeking a meaningful experience, this tour balances educational content with moments of reflection. The private setting and customizable timing make it an appealing choice for those eager to explore Assisi’s less-known stories of courage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, as long as participants have moderate physical fitness, and are interested in historical stories related to WWII.

Does the tour include visits to the Basilica of St. Francis?
No, this tour does not cover the Basilica of St. Francis or other major basilicas.

What is the cost for the Museum of Memory?
The admission fee is 3 euros per person, payable separately if you choose to visit the museum.

How long does the tour last?
The duration is approximately 2 to 3 hours, depending on pace and interest.

Are tickets to the stops included?
Yes, tickets for the San Rufino church, Santa Chiara square, and Monastery of S. Quirico are included.

Can the meeting point be changed?
Yes, the meeting point can be adjusted upon confirmation.

Is this a small group or private experience?
It is a private tour, with only your group participating, which allows for a more personalized experience.

Is accessibility an issue?
The tour is suitable for those with moderate physical fitness but may involve walking on uneven surfaces.

What makes this tour different from other Assisi tours?
Its focus on WWII history and local heroes, combined with visits to less-visited sites like the Museum of Memory and Monastery of S. Quirico, makes it a distinctive choice.

How do reviews reflect the experience?
While the knowledgeable guides and meaningful sites are appreciated, some note that narration can feel disjointed, and more time for exploring Assisi’s art and basilicas might be desired by certain visitors.