2 Hour The Secrets of Assisi Underground Walking Guided Tour

Exploring Assisi often means marveling at its above-ground religious monuments and stunning basilicas, but there’s a whole other world beneath the surface that many visitors overlook. The 2 Hour The Secrets of Assisi Underground Walking Guided Tour offers a fascinating peek into the city’s lesser-known underground layers—Roman ruins, crypts, and secret prayer spots—all wrapped in an intimate small-group setting.

What makes this experience particularly appealing is the chance to see Assisi from a different perspective—beneath the bustling streets and famous landmarks—while uncovering stories that have remained hidden for centuries. The tour’s highlight is the well-curated itinerary, led by guides who bring history to life with deep knowledge and engaging storytelling. However, keep in mind that entrance fees for some sites are extra, so budget accordingly if you want full access.

This tour is ideal for history buffs, art lovers, and those eager to go beyond the typical tourist trail. If you’re curious about Roman foundations of Assisi or want a more personal, narrative-driven experience of St. Francis’ spiritual spaces, this is an excellent choice. It’s especially suited for small groups seeking a relaxed, engaging exploration—and for travelers who don’t mind paying a little extra for a richer experience.

Key Points

• Underground Assisi: Discover the city’s hidden Roman and medieval underground sites.
• Expert Guides: Guides are knowledgeable, capable of answering detailed questions and sharing stories.
• Cultural & Artistic Treasures: See frescoes, artifacts, and ruins rarely seen by typical visitors.
• Small Group Experience: Limited to 15 people, ensuring a personal and comfortable tour.
• Extra Admission Fees: Sites like the Museo Diocesano and archaeological ruins require additional tickets.
• Authentic Insights: Learn about St. Francis’ prayer life and Assisi’s ancient Roman past.

A Detailed Look at the Underground Assisi Experience

Starting Point: The Cathedral of San Rufino

The tour kicks off at the Cathedral of San Rufino, a central and accessible location in Assisi’s charming piazza. Here, visitors are introduced to the history of the crypt of San Rufino, located beneath the nave. The crypt is a particularly evocative spot—small, dark, with 11th-century frescoes that give a glimpse of medieval religious art, and a Roman sarcophagus illustrating the myth of Selene and Endymion.

According to those who’ve taken the tour, this part of the experience feels very intimate. One reviewer, Clifton C., mentioned, “The guide was excellent. Very knowledgeable and explained so much. Answered many questions. Walk was easy.” The crypt served as a quiet retreat for St. Francis himself, making it a special place for those interested in his life and practices.

Exploring the Museo Diocesano and Crypt of San Rufino

Next, the tour visits the Museo Diocesano e Cripta di San Rufino. Here, visitors get to explore the remains of a Romanesque cloister and the crypt of the 11th-century basilica. The frescoes and artifacts on display offer a vivid sense of the religious artistry of that period, as well as insights into the religious and civic life of medieval Assisi.

One of the highlights is the Roman sarcophagus housing the myth of Selene and Endymion. The frescoes, rare for coeval art, help bring the past to life, and the atmosphere of the crypt itself feels like stepping back in time. Reviewers appreciate the guide’s ability to contextualize these relics, with Jane K. noting, “Clair was an excellent tour guide! Armed with her deep knowledge of art, she delivered a wonderful appreciation for every painting and artifact now confined to the underworld!”

Descending to the Roman Forum

The most exciting part of the tour for history lovers is the visit beneath the current town square—the Roman Forum. Excavated in 1836, these ruins reveal the city’s ancient Roman roots. Visitors can see the base of the temple dedicated to Minerva, the podium with magistrate seats, and the foundations of a tetrastyle temple dedicated to Castor and Pollux.

You’ll be walking in the same space where Roman citizens once gathered, and many find the scale and preservation of these ruins quite impressive. The underground remains serve as a tangible connection to Assisi’s layered past, a city that has transformed over centuries but still preserves its Roman origins beneath modern streets.

The Experience of Walking the Underground

The small size of the group (maximum 15 participants) ensures that you’re not just a face in the crowd. Our guide, Clair, was praised for her ability to make ancient artifacts relatable. She explained how these ruins fit into the broader story of Assisi’s development and answered questions with enthusiasm.

The walking pace is gentle, with plenty of time to observe and absorb the details. The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, making it an ideal option for travelers with a packed itinerary who want a focused, enriching experience.

Practical Details and Value

While the guided tour itself is included in the price, visitors should note that admission tickets to sites like the Museo Diocesano and the Roman Forum are additional. Planning ahead and budgeting for these extras ensures no surprises.

The tour is priced at around $132.42 per person, which may seem steep but can be justified given the small-group intimacy, expert guiding, and access to rarely seen underground sites. The reviews echo that the tour is well worth the cost, especially for those interested in history and archaeology.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who want to go beyond the typical Assisi sightseeing. It especially appeals to those with an interest in ancient Rome, religious history, or art, as the sites feature well-preserved frescoes and artifacts.

It’s also ideal for visitors who appreciate small-group tours, as it offers a more relaxed, detailed exploration with a knowledgeable guide. If you’re interested in the spiritual side of Assisi, you’ll find the crypt spaces—like the one where Francis himself prayed—particularly meaningful.

Final thoughts

The Secrets of Assisi Underground tour offers an authentic and intimate look at a city layered with history beneath its famous basilicas. The guided approach ensures that you gain a deeper understanding of the archaeological sites, art, and stories that make Assisi such a captivating place.

While it does require additional tickets for certain sites, many visitors feel that the experience justifies the extra expense. The tour’s focus on expert guides—like Clair—and small group size make it a standout way to see Assisi’s unseen depths.

This tour suits history enthusiasts, art lovers, and curious travelers eager to uncover Assisi’s secret past. It’s a chance to see the city through a new lens—beneath the streets—and is well worth considering if you want a meaningful, behind-the-scenes experience in Assisi.

FAQ

Are entrance fees included in the tour price?
No, the tour price covers the guided experience, but entrance tickets to sites like the Museo Diocesano and Roman Forum are extra.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for approximately 2 hours, making it a manageable yet in-depth exploration of underground Assisi.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, and the pace is gentle, but the underground sites involve walking and some uneven surfaces, so consider your comfort with stairs and dark spaces.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 15 participants, ensuring a personal and engaging experience.

Who is the guide?
Guides like Clair are praised for their deep knowledge and ability to answer questions, enriching the experience with storytelling.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at the Cathedral of San Rufino and ends back at the same location.

To sum it up, if you’re looking for a meaningful way to explore Assisi’s hidden underground secrets, this guided tour offers a well-balanced combination of history, art, and spirituality. It’s best suited for those who appreciate learning from expert guides and enjoy small-group settings. The experience provides a rare glimpse into Assisi’s Roman and medieval past, making it a worthwhile addition to your travel plans.