Montefalco & Assisi
Tour Day 3
Ravenna to Montefalco
9,273 Steps of Knowledge
We gathered with our bags this morning, and made the short walk to meet up with our tour bus and driver, Stefano.
Upon arriving in Ravenna, we were met by a local guide who escorted us to the Byzantine San Vitale Basilica. The Basilica's amazing 547 AD mosaics, and the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia were amazing site. Today's drive continued onto Umbria, and the wall village of Montefalco. The evening was free to enjoy our villa and village. We were once again joined by Laura and Tom for dinner and four of us proceeded had a memorable and lighthearted dinner. Attempting to order in Italian at a small street side cafe was an adventure in itself because our very good natured server had little or no English abilities. Tom's charm attempt to order coffee with "sugarrre" brought on laughter to the point of tears, and is still a moment we can smile and laugh about. Nothing helps explain your lack of Italian like an awful French accent!
Tour Day 4
Assisi & Truffles
12,021 Steps of Reflection
Today we prepared to explore the life and hometown of St. Francis. Before heading to Assisi, we stopped at the Basilica of St Mary degli Angeli, the huge church which was built around the St. Francis Porziuncola Chapel. This is the site where St. Francis lived, died and practiced his beliefs. It is also home to his storied rose garden.
We proceeded on up to the hillside town of Assisi and Basilica of St Francis. Our local guide, Giuseppe, took us on inspirational journey of Francis' life, along with the history and art of this amazing Basilica. We had some free time for lunch and to explore the old town of Assisi.
Our evening was all about truffles! A truffle hunt (the dogs totally stole the show), along with the fabulous meal specializing in truffles. Our group dinner was served on a patio overlooking the Umbrian countryside, and was the perfect finish to a day of awe inspiring sights, and with some time to reflect on those who created them.
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TOUR TIP: Get the most from your tour by reading your Rick Steves guide book before the tour, and then along the way. Taking time to read up the night before your next location, is helpful. Guides will give you great information and recommendations, but there is a lot of information to take in.