San Damiano Tours

San Damiano showing heritage architecture and a church or cathedral
San Damiano which includes heritage architecture as well as a small group of people
San Damiano featuring flowers and heritage architecture
San Damiano which includes religious aspects, a church or cathedral and interior views
San Damiano which includes interior views, a church or cathedral and heritage elements


Explore the church and monastery where St. Francis received his miraculous calling from God and where St. Clare built her religious order, in a peaceful setting outside the walls of Assisi.

Although it consists of a modest church and adjoining convent, San Damiano has great historic significance. Visit the site where it is said, in 1205, St. Francis was commanded by God to give up a life of luxury and excess to serve the Church and where St. Clare founded the Order of Poor Ladies in 1212. Escape from the crowds inside the city walls when you visit this peaceful and charming location.

Approach the site from the north by following an atmospheric trail lined with olive trees, from where you can get a first glimpse of the façade of the convent and church. Although not nearly as lavish as many of the Franciscan structures within the walls of Assisi, the architectural restraint on display at San Damiano is more in keeping with the life of poverty and humility led by St. Francis.

Appreciate the peaceful atmosphere of the church’s interior and take a seat to spend a few minutes in prayer or meditation. The walls around the church’s single nave are painted with 14th-century frescoes while the apse of the choir is decorated with a 13th-century fresco of Madonna and Child between Saints Rufinus and Damianus. The painted crucifix in the apse is a copy of the icon that spoke to St. Francis the original now hangs in the Basilica of Santa Chiara.

Explore the monastery buildings nearby, including the attractive 15th-century cloister, the refectory and the old dormitory, where St. Clare died in 1253. The modest facilities of the monastery give you an idea of the frugal life of its inhabitants during medieval times. Wander through the surrounding gardens to find a number of bronze statues, including one of St. Francis meditating.

There is no fee to enter the monastery and church at San Damiano, which are open daily. Times vary according to season and it is usually closed during lunch hours. The site is 0.9 miles (1.5 kilometers) from the city walls, approximately a 15-minute walk from the city gate at the east side of the Basilica of Santa Chiara. Taxis are readily available from the center of Assisi.

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Best Lodging Options Near San Damiano

BV Grand Hotel Assisi

BV Grand Hotel Assisi

4 out of 5
Via Giovanni Renzi No 2, Assisi, PG
BV Grand Hotel Assisi
Il Palazzo

Il Palazzo

3 out of 5
Via San Francesco 8, Assisi, PG
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Giotto Hotel & Spa

Giotto Hotel & Spa

4 out of 5
Via Fontebella 41, Assisi, PG
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Hotel Fontebella

Hotel Fontebella

4 out of 5
25 Via Fontebella, Assisi, PG
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TH Assisi - Hotel Cenacolo

TH Assisi - Hotel Cenacolo

4 out of 5
Viale Patrono d'Italia 70, Santa Maria degli Angeli, Assisi, PG
TH Assisi - Hotel Cenacolo
Hotel Porta Nuova

Hotel Porta Nuova

3 out of 5
Viale Umberto I, 21, Assisi, PG
Hotel Porta Nuova
Asisium Boutique Hotel

Asisium Boutique Hotel

4 out of 5
Corso Giuseppe Mazzini 35, Assisi, PG
Asisium Boutique Hotel
Hotel Umbra

Hotel Umbra

3 out of 5
Via Degli Archi 6, Assisi, PG
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Portica 10

Portica 10

Via Portica 10, Assisi, PG
Portica 10
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near San Damiano

San Damiano, located in Assisi, Umbria, offers a variety of activities such as art exploration, walking, and running. Popular day trips include visits to nearby historic sites, while hiking trails provide stunning views of the Umbrian landscape. Whether you're looking to immerse yourself in local culture or enjoy the great outdoors, San Damiano has something for every traveler.

Shopping

For unique gifts, visit Mercatino dell'Usato di Spello, only 6 miles from San Damiano. If you're up for a drive, check out Sambuco Ceramics Store and Antica Fornace Deruta, both 12 miles away, for exquisite ceramics that make perfect souvenirs.

Recreation

Experience the vibrant energy at Renato Curi Stadium, just 14 miles from San Damiano, perfect for sports enthusiasts. Enjoy a round of golf at Antognolla Golf, located 18 miles away, surrounded by beautiful outdoor scenery. For ultimate relaxation, visit Bagni Triponzo, a serene body treatment venue 23 miles from San Damiano.

Adventure

Experience breathtaking views from the Funivia Colle Eletto cable car, located 20 miles from San Damiano, perfect for outdoor family adventures. For adrenaline seekers, the Magione Racetrack, also 20 miles away, offers thrilling motor racing experiences. Equestrian Center San Biagio, 16 miles from San Damiano, provides outdoor riding opportunities.

Nightlife

The nightlife in San Damiano offers a blend of culture and entertainment. Catch a performance at the Lyric Theater, just 2 miles away, or enjoy the romantic atmosphere of Teatro Lyrick Assisi and Teatro Comunale Morlacchi, both located 12 miles from town, perfect for family outings.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near San Damiano

San Damiano, Assisi, offers a rich blend of cultural experiences, making it perfect for travelers seeking romance, city life, and history. Explore must-visit sites like charming churches and cathedrals, and unwind at beautiful piazzas. Don't miss attractions such as San Martino, Casa Vacanza, and the San Damiano venue, each providing unique insights into local life and heritage. Whether you're wandering or savoring the ambiance, you'll find plenty to enjoy in this picturesque destination.

  • Basilica of St. Mary of the Angels: Nestled just 2 miles from San Damiano, this stunning basilica offers rich cultural vibes and a serene atmosphere. It houses the Porziuncola, a small chapel of immense historical significance to St. Francis, making it a must-visit for those seeking spiritual connection.
  • Piazza del Comune: Located 0.7 miles away, this vibrant square is the heart of Assisi. Surrounded by beautiful medieval buildings, it buzzes with cultural life, offering cafes, shops, and a lively market scene that captures the essence of Italian city life.
  • Via San Francesco: Just 1 mile from San Damiano, this charming street leads you through Assisi's historical treasures. With its quaint shops and stunning architecture, it embodies the lively spirit of the city, perfect for leisurely strolls.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for San Damiano

To save money on your trip to San Damiano, consider visiting between January and March when prices are lower. Book your hotel about a month in advance for the best rates, and check out last-minute deals on Expedia. Tuesdays are typically the cheapest days to stay, while Sundays are the most expensive. Use Expedia's search tool to filter by price and eco-friendly options, and consider package deals that combine flights and hotels. Joining Expedia's One Key membership can also provide exclusive discounts and cash rewards for future bookings.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around San Damiano are January to March, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around San Damiano is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around San Damiano is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around San Damiano is Sunday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool makes it easy for you to set your budget, choose your ideal destination, and customize your preferences. You can organize the results to display prices from lowest to highest, ensuring you find the most affordable hotels first. Additionally, you have the option to refine your search by hotel category; for instance, if you select the Eco-certified filter, you'll be shown sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that you can book.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay in San Damiano with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.
  • Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.

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