The Diocesan Museum and Cathedral, Assisi

Church chronicles say nothing about the date when the cathedral was constructed. Some sources indicate that relics of Saint Rufinus were put in here in the 5th century. Some records state that this event took place in the 8th century. is the only thing we can be sure of is that this church became a cathedral in the 11th century.

You might notice stucco work depicting plants and animals at building’s entrance. The interior is designed in the Renaissance style. Statues of Saint Francis and Clare can be found inside as well. The vaults are decorated with 17th-century frescos and ornamental stucco work dating back to the 19th century.

History and exhibitions

Throughout the years the Assisi Cathedral underwent five reconstructions that had some kind of impact on the church appearance.

The museum was opened to the public in 1941 and owns main relics of the cathedral. Currently, the place boasts 12 halls with 300 exhibits, a restoration laboratory, historical archive and a big library.

Inside the museum, you can find paintings created in the 14th century, murals dating back to the 15th century, some elements that were part of the construction at the time. The cathedral possesses such rare objects:

• the 19th-century sculpture “Mourning”;
• the 17th-century organ;
• the Eucharist chapel (17th-century);
• the crypt of Saint Rufinus that visitors will find especially fascinating since that’s the place where relics of the saint are kept.

How to get

You can reach the Diocesan Museum and Cathedral in Assisi by car. All you need is to drive to Piazza Matteotti parking lot (it is situated 50 meters away from the venue). If you choose to take a bus (C, E006, E007, E066), then get off at the last stop on Piazza Matteotti. If you chose to go by train, then get off at the Santa Maria degli Angeli station, catch a bus to Assisi, the stop on Piazza Matteotti.

Opening hours: the museum’s schedule changes depending on the time of the year. During wintertime it is open from 10:00 till 16:30 (break: 13:00–14:00.) During summertime – till 18:00 (break: 13:00–15:00.) The place is closed on Wednesday.

Admission: a full ticket costs 3,5 euros, reduced one – 2,5 euros. Groups that consist of more than 25 people and children between the ages of 8 and 13 can purchase a ticket for 1,5 euros.