Eremo delle Carceri
A serene 13th-century hermitage where St. Francis found solace. Offers peace, nature, and deep spiritual connection.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peace
Eremo delle Carceri
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peace

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene 13th-century hermitage where St. Francis found solace. Offers peace, nature, and deep spiritual connection.
"A refuge in the hills above Assisi, offering solace and breathtaking views."
🚶♀️ Hike the Forest Path
Opt for the marked forest trail from Assisi for stunning views and a more spiritual ascent. :athletic_shoe:
🤫 Respect the Silence
This is a working monastery. Maintain a quiet demeanor to honor the monks and the sacred atmosphere. :pray:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

St. Francis's Cave
Hermitage complex
The humble cave where St. Francis sought solitude and prayer. Feel the history and devotion.

The Forest Path
Ascent from Assisi
A scenic, albeit challenging, hike through the woods to reach the hermitage. Rewarding views await.

Monastery Grounds
Hermitage complex
Explore the peaceful courtyards, chapels, and gardens. A place for reflection and communion with nature.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Serenity
Timing Your Tranquil Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Hike the Forest Path
Opt for the marked forest trail from Assisi for stunning views and a more spiritual ascent. :athletic_shoe:
🤫 Respect the Silence
This is a working monastery. Maintain a quiet demeanor to honor the monks and the sacred atmosphere. :pray:
☕ Cafe at the Entrance
A welcome cafe is available near the entrance for refreshments before or after your visit. :coffee:
🙏 Free to Visit
Admission to the Eremo delle Carceri is free, making it an accessible spiritual and cultural experience. :moneywithwings:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Hike the Forest Path
Opt for the marked forest trail from Assisi for stunning views and a more spiritual ascent. :athletic_shoe:
🤫 Respect the Silence
This is a working monastery. Maintain a quiet demeanor to honor the monks and the sacred atmosphere. :pray:
☕ Cafe at the Entrance
A welcome cafe is available near the entrance for refreshments before or after your visit. :coffee:
🙏 Free to Visit
Admission to the Eremo delle Carceri is free, making it an accessible spiritual and cultural experience. :moneywithwings:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Eremo delle Carceri for its breathtaking beauty, profound peace, and spiritual significance. Many highlight the serene atmosphere and the opportunity for quiet contemplation. While the uphill hike can be challenging, most find it rewarding. Some note the narrow passages within the monastery add to its unique charm.
"Breathtaking and very picturesque place. Great piece of culture that can be appreciated by both believers and atheists."
Pol Xperon
"A refuge in the hills above Assisi. Established by Francis of Assisi in the 13th century, this place has offered solace for countless people over the centuries. The buildings are a working monastery, with preserved historic sites, accommodations, chapels and outside areas for reflection. It is free to visit."
Chris Caldwell
"If you go to Assisi, a beautiful sanctuary to go to is Eremo Della Carceri. You can walk the 4 km up hill, with spectacular views which takes between 1-1 1/2 hrs. There is a welcome cafe at the entrance 🙂. The caves here are where St Francis and his brothers lived and prayed and the monastery was built around them. The grounds on the mountainside are so peaceful to walk and pray in. The monastery has some small passages and narrow stairways, but this adds to the atmosphere. The monks there are very welcoming. Beautiful."
Debbie Rumsby
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach the Eremo delle Carceri by car, taxi, or by hiking. The hike from Assisi is approximately 4 km and can take 1-1.5 hours, with a beautiful forest path available.
Driving is also an option, with parking available near the entrance.While direct public transport is limited, local buses may run to Assisi, from where you can arrange a taxi or begin your hike. It's best to check local schedules in advance.
The Eremo delle Carceri is located about 4 kilometers (2.5 miles) from the center of Assisi, situated on the slopes of Mount Subasio.
Absolutely! Many visitors choose to walk up from Assisi, enjoying the scenic route. There's a well-marked forest path that offers a more immersive experience than the road.
The walk is uphill and can be challenging, especially the forest path, but it's considered well worth the effort for the views and the sense of accomplishment.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to the Eremo delle Carceri is free. It's a working monastery, and visitors are welcome to explore its grounds and historical sites without charge.
The hermitage is generally open daily, but it's advisable to check for any specific seasonal hours or closures, especially as it is a functioning religious site.
While generally accessible, it's a place of prayer and contemplation. Visiting during daylight hours is recommended, and respecting the quiet atmosphere is essential.
There is no entrance fee to visit the Eremo delle Carceri. It's a place of spiritual significance open to all.
Visitors are asked to maintain a respectful and quiet demeanor, as it is a place of prayer and a working monastery. Dress modestly.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore St. Francis's cave, the chapels, the monastery buildings, and the peaceful grounds. The natural setting is as much a draw as the historical sites.
Yes, it's an ideal location for meditation and prayer, offering a profound sense of peace and connection with nature and spirituality.
There are accommodations available for those wishing to stay overnight or for a few days, offering a deeper immersion into the hermitage's tranquil environment.
The atmosphere is one of profound peace, serenity, and spirituality. It's a place where you can truly disconnect and find solace.
While formal guided tours might not always be available, the monks are often welcoming, and information is usually provided on-site to help visitors understand the history and significance of the place.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed in outdoor areas and common spaces, but it's respectful to refrain from taking photos inside chapels or private monastic areas. Always be mindful of others seeking quiet contemplation.
The views from the grounds, the ancient stone structures, and the surrounding natural landscape offer beautiful photographic opportunities. The forest path also provides scenic shots.
Drone usage is typically restricted in religious sites and natural reserves to maintain peace and prevent disturbance. It's best to assume drones are not permitted.
Expect serene landscapes, architectural details of the hermitage, and the natural beauty of the Umbrian hills. The 'cantico degli uccelli' (song of the birds) theme is often captured.
Be mindful of the sacred nature of the site. Avoid intrusive photography, especially of monks or during prayer services. Check for any posted signage regarding photography.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Pilgrims
🌿 Nature Lovers & Hikers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Spiritual Significance of Eremo delle Carceri
Visitors often describe an overwhelming sense of peace and tranquility upon arrival. The simple, ancient structures, nestled within the lush greenery of the forest, invite introspection. The very air seems to carry a sense of devotion accumulated over centuries. It's a place where one can truly feel the spirit of St. Francis and his commitment to a life of poverty, prayer, and communion with nature.
Beyond its religious importance, the Eremo delle Carceri is a testament to the enduring human desire for solitude and spiritual connection. The surrounding natural landscape, with its ancient trees and quiet paths, enhances the contemplative experience. It's a reminder of the power of nature to inspire and heal, a theme central to St. Francis's teachings and his famous 'Canticle of the Creatures'.
Experiencing the Ascent to the Hermitage
This ascent is often described as a spiritual journey in preparation for the hermitage itself. The effort involved in the climb can lead to a greater appreciation of the peace found at the destination. Redditors often share tips about wearing comfortable shoes and bringing water, especially during warmer months. The feeling of accomplishment upon reaching the hermitage after the hike is a significant part of the experience for many.
Upon arrival, whether by foot or by vehicle, you'll find a small welcome cafe near the entrance, providing a place to rest and refresh before exploring the hermitage complex. The transition from the active world of Assisi to the serene quiet of the Eremo delle Carceri is palpable, making the journey an integral part of the visit.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit