Cattedrale di San Rufino di Assisi

Cathedral in Assisi

Emerging from the labyrinthine alleys east of Town Hall Square, the Cathedral, known as the “Duomo,” reveals its distinctive three-tiered Umbrian facade. Legend traces the origins of the church to around 412, intended to enshrine the relics of Saint Rufinus, Assisi’s inaugural bishop, martyred approximately 170 years earlier. Subsequent constructions followed, with the crypt and present bell tower dating back to roughly 1029. The iteration closest to the current structure was consecrated in 1253.

The Romanesque portal serves as a pinnacle of craftsmanship, flanked by two red marble lions and adorned with intricate motifs: lilies, foliage, faces, birds, and even winged crocodiles and griffins. Above the doorway, a lunette depicts a nursing child, observed by stern-faced parents. Adjacent to the portal stands the imposing bell tower, seamlessly integrating with the church’s architectural harmony.

Inside, attention is drawn to the baptismal font, utilized for the baptisms of Saint Francis, Saint Clare, and potentially the future Emperor Frederick II. Positioned near the church’s right end, it is surrounded by Romanesque statues of a lion and a winged ox. Opposite, at the start of the left aisle, a small door reveals an impressive Roman cistern. Recent studies suggest that the cathedral square, rather than Town Hall Square, may have been the original site of the town’s Roman Forum.

Beneath the altar lies the crypt, housing the remains of Saint Rufinus, accessible to visitors along with a compact museum.

The Cattedrale di San Rufino di Assisi appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Assisi!

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Visiting Cattedrale di San Rufino di Assisi

Hours:

Diocesan Museum and Crypt of San Rufino open from 10.00 to 18.00

Closed: Wednesday, December 25th, January 1st

Bell tower of San Rufino open from 10.00 to 11.30 and from 15.00 to 17.00 closed on Wednesdays and cannot be visited in case of rain or strong winds – ticket €1.50

Price:

€3.50

Address: Cattedrale di Assisi, Piazza San Rufino, Assisi, Province of Perugia, Italy

Duration: 20 minutes