The beautiful Torre Madre Vacation Home stands on the site of an ancient medieval watchtower that has been expanded and restored. The cottage, with its distinctive stone walls, consists of two apartments, each accommodating up to four people; it is nestled amid the serene natural setting of centuries-old olive trees on the hillside of Assisi, just five minutes from the historic center. The spacious private garden with an outdoor seating area is perfect for enchanting evenings under the stars, summer breakfasts, and sunbathing—all part of an experience dedicated to peace and relaxation.
PROPERTY The perfect choice for couples or families, Casale Torre Madre is a standalone property with unique features. In addition to being a medieval structure—an ancient watchtower—it stands on a stone outcrop and features a very distinctive cave that guests can explore. The historic farmhouse consists of two apartments; on the first floor, directly overlooking the garden, is the “Sorella Luna” apartment, featuring a spacious kitchen with a living area, a double bedroom with a stunning semicircular brick vault, and a bathroom with a shower.
Going up to the first floor, which has terracotta tile flooring, you’ll find the “Frate Sole” apartment, consisting of a living room, a kitchenette, two double bedrooms, and a bathroom.
The apartments, fully furnished and beautifully finished, are equipped with dishes, bed linens, and bath towels, a washing machine, and everything needed for a comfortable stay. Included in the price: linens, utilities, cleaning upon arrival and departure, and free Wi-Fi
The farmhouse is nestled in a rural setting just a stone’s throw from the historic center of Assisi, which can be easily reached by taking a stroll along the ancient paths once walked by St. Francis and his companions, or by car.
NEIGHBORHOOD
Church of San Damiano
San Damiano is the ideal starting point for gaining a deeper understanding of the life of St. Francis; it is, in fact, the site of Francis’s conversion, where the saint heard the voice of the Crucified One say, “Go and repair my house.” He restored the church and converted it into the first monastery for Saint Clare. Two years before his death, right here, he composed the Canticle of the Creatures.
Rivotorto Shrine
The Rivotorto Shrine houses the Sacred Hut (13th century): a very modest shelter chosen by St. Francis as a dwelling for himself and his first companions. It is described by many as “the cradle of the Franciscan Brotherhood.”
To the west of the Sanctuary, about 1 km away, are the churches of St. Mary Magdalene (12th century) and St. Rufino d’Arce (12th century). To the east, about 2 km away, is the Church of the Holy Trinity (12th century), and toward the city is the Church of St. Giovannuccio (16th century).
All these places have witnessed some of the most significant events related to the saint’s conversion and the founding of the Franciscan Order.
Not far from the farmhouse is a partner riding stable offering wonderful horseback rides and a quaint farm with a donkey herd—an ideal outing for families with children.
Assisi Historic Center
Basilica of St. Francis
Since 1230, it has preserved and safeguarded the saint’s remains, which were previously kept at the Basilica of St. Clare. St. Francis himself designated the lower hill of the city, once called Collis inferni, as the place where he wished to be buried. That hill was renamed Collis paradisi, and on it the basilica was built, consisting of two superimposed churches and the crypt where the remains of St. Francis are kept. Noteworthy are the frescoes by Cimabue and Giotto.
Basilica of Saint Clare
Construction began in 1257 with the building of the church and the adjacent convent of the Poor Clares, who had lived at San Damiano since 1212. Built next to the Church of San Giorgio, where Francis was temporarily buried and where Saint Clare was laid to rest on August 12, 1253. Here, in addition to the remains of Saint Clare, one can also find the Crucifix of San Damiano, which was transferred by the Poor Clares in 1257.