Eremo delle Carceri, Franciscan monastery on Monte Subasio, Assisi, Italy
The stone monastery complex extends across a steep forest gorge at 791 meters elevation, featuring multiple chapels, caves, and narrow passageways.
Saint Francis first arrived at this location in 1205, when only a small oratory existed, before the Benedictines transferred ownership to him in 1215.
Franciscan friars continue to reside at the hermitage, maintaining centuries-old traditions of prayer and meditation in the natural cave structures.
The monastery welcomes visitors from 6:30 AM until 7:15 PM during summer months and until sunset in winter, with no entrance fee required.
An ancient oak tree near the monastery marks the spot where numerous birds gathered as Saint Francis delivered his sermons to them.
Location: Assisi
Part of: Town of Assisi, San Damiano, Eremo delle Carceri, Santuario di Rivotorto and cultural landscape
GPS coordinates: 43.06311,12.65191
Latest update: May 27, 2025 08:42
Umbria preserves traces of over two millennia of history through its archaeological sites, religious monuments, and remarkable natural formations. The region features underground complexes such as Orvieto Underground with its 1,200 passages carved into volcanic tuff, and Narni Underground, revealing medieval chapels and remains of Roman aqueducts. Visitors also explore the Dunarobba Fossil Forest, where 50 petrified tree trunks dating back three million years showcase the region's geological evolution. Medieval castles like Rocca Albornoziana overlook ancient towns, while monasteries such as San Pietro in Valle and Eremo delle Carceri maintain medieval art and spirituality. The Umbrian landscape stretches from Gubbio's Roman theaters to mountain villages like Castelluccio, perched at 1,452 meters (4,764 feet) above sea level, and includes the Nera Natural Park, which protects over 2,120 hectares (5,243 acres) of forests and limestone formations. These sites trace the region’s history from the Etruscan civilization through the Renaissance.
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