The Way of Saint Francis
In the winter of 1206, the saint of Assisi moved along the path of this route in order to reach Gubbio, fleeing from his father Peter Bernardone, and seeking refuge in the Spadalonga family by his friend Federico Spadalonga. The route starting from the city center goes to the plains of Pian d’Assino, and than goes up the hills and mountains of the southern quadrant of the Gubbio territory. The numerous peaks draw a green landscape of small villages, located on high ground, surrounded by fields and lush forests. In the undergrowth of these areas abound mushrooms, especially the “porcini”, and there are also the precious truffles. The old route was passing for sure close to the castles of Biscina and Vallingegno, two fortresses used to defend the roads descending into the valley of the Chiascio river. This river rises from the rocks of Mount Cucco and after crossing the plain in front of Gubbio, draws on its way between mountains and hills, and then open the route towards Assisi. The ancient road used by S. Francis ran along the river in the lower part of the valley. Today the old path has been recovered, for those wishing to try their hand in a scenic journey on foot or by bicycle, there is the “Via di Francesco” (www.viadifrancesco.it) a route that runs through the entire Umbria reconnecting among them, the places related to the human story of the Saint of Assisi.