We fancied a simple activity today, a post-lunch visit to remind ourselves of the beauty and history of this region, in this quiet and tourist-free month. Umbria was never as wealthy as Tuscany, and thus many works that might have been destroyed are still in place, as they have not been 'improved'. We are spoiled for choice.
Yesterday we visited the Eremo dei Carceri, the small hermitage up above Assisi where St Francis used to go to retreat from the hustle and bustle, and be back with nature. There is even an old oak tree - now held up with iron supports - that is said to be the one on which Francis used to speak to the birds - it’s a very old oak indeed, 800 years plus.
On our arrival, a monk was sitting in a small room, reading. There were guides available for a donation. I asked for the one in English, and he said 'well, it's a sort of English' he replied. And he was right about that! Seems amazing really given the number of visitors who would gladly proof-read the translation for free, I am sure.
The place is indeed very tranquil and relaxing...It was beautifully remote, calm and serene..though perhaps a little too cold to linger much on such a cold day!
All in all, a little visit, and a very special one too..
Yesterday we visited the Eremo dei Carceri, the small hermitage up above Assisi where St Francis used to go to retreat from the hustle and bustle, and be back with nature. There is even an old oak tree - now held up with iron supports - that is said to be the one on which Francis used to speak to the birds - it’s a very old oak indeed, 800 years plus.
On our arrival, a monk was sitting in a small room, reading. There were guides available for a donation. I asked for the one in English, and he said 'well, it's a sort of English' he replied. And he was right about that! Seems amazing really given the number of visitors who would gladly proof-read the translation for free, I am sure.
The place is indeed very tranquil and relaxing...It was beautifully remote, calm and serene..though perhaps a little too cold to linger much on such a cold day!
All in all, a little visit, and a very special one too..
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