Cattedrale di San Rufino di Assisi

Cathedral in Assisi

Cattedrale Di San Rufino Di Assisi
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Fczarnowski

Emerging gracefully from Assisi's winding medieval lanes, the Cattedrale di San Rufino — or Saint Rufinus Cathedral — stands as one of the most evocative landmarks in the city. Its commanding Romanesque façade, carved with intricate symbolism, greets visitors with scenes of faith and mystery. The church, dating back to the 13th century, has been a cornerstone of Assisi's spiritual life for centuries, enshrining the relics of Saint Rufinus, the city's first bishop and patron saint.

Stepping inside, visitors find themselves in a place where history and devotion intertwine. The same baptismal font that welcomed Saint Francis, Saint Clare, and possibly Emperor Frederick II still rests within its walls. For many travelers, this is one of the must-see places in Assisi — a sacred site that continues to inspire awe through its architecture, artistry, and centuries-old reverence. It's also a highlight of any walking tour of Assisi, offering a deep sense of continuity between the town's Roman roots and its Christian legacy.

History and Significance of Cattedrale di San Rufino

The origins of the cathedral date back to the early 5th century when it was built to enshrine the relics of Saint Rufinus, Assisi's first bishop, who was martyred around 240 AD. Over the centuries, successive churches replaced earlier ones, with the current structure consecrated in 1253. Its architect, Giovanni da Gubbio, drew inspiration from Romanesque-Umbrian style, creating a façade that remains one of the most refined examples in Umbria.

The church's façade is divided into three harmonious tiers, each symbolizing the ascent from the earthly to the divine. Its central rose window, intricate carvings, and decorative bands of foliage and creatures — including griffins and winged crocodiles — evoke both medieval imagination and spiritual allegory. The Romanesque portal, flanked by two red marble lions, captures the balance of strength and serenity characteristic of 13th-century craftsmanship.

For Assisi's residents, this cathedral has always held special importance. It was here that Saint Francis and Saint Clare were baptized, beginning lives that would profoundly shape the course of Christianity. Even the city's civic and spiritual boundaries have long revolved around this site, believed by some scholars to overlay the original Roman Forum of Assisi.

Things to See and Do in Cattedrale di San Rufino

Inside, the cathedral combines grandeur with a meditative calm. The baptismal font, near the right nave, is a focal point for pilgrims and visitors alike, surrounded by statues of a lion and a winged ox — traditional symbols of the Evangelists. The interior features Romanesque columns and arches that create a rhythmic sense of light and space.

A small doorway at the start of the left aisle leads to a remarkable discovery — an ancient Roman cistern that hints at Assisi's deeper archaeological layers. Beneath the main altar lies the crypt, where visitors can view the relics of Saint Rufinus in a serene subterranean chapel. The adjoining museum displays religious artifacts, sculptures, and fragments that reveal the cathedral's long and evolving history.

Climbing to the bell tower, visitors are rewarded with panoramic views over Assisi's rooftops and the Umbrian countryside — a peaceful reward after exploring one of the top sights in Assisi.

How to Get There

The Cattedrale di San Rufino is located on the eastern side of Assisi's old town, a short walk from Piazza del Comune. From Assisi railway station, visitors can take a taxi or local bus to the upper town. Those driving can park at Piazza Giovanni Paolo II or Porta Nuova Car Park, both of which are within 10–15 minutes on foot. The walk to the cathedral winds through charming stone alleys that gradually open onto the cathedral square — an experience that feels like a pilgrimage in itself.

Practical Tips on Visiting Cattedrale di San Rufino

  • Best time to visit Cattedrale di San Rufino: Early morning for quiet reflection or late afternoon for beautiful light on the façade.
  • Entrance fee in Euros: Free.
  • Opening hours: 8:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. and 2:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
  • Official website: www.diocesiassisi.it
  • How long to spend: Around 45 minutes to 1 hour.
  • Accessibility: Moderate; access to the crypt and bell tower involves steps.
  • Facilities: Restrooms nearby, with a small museum attached.
  • Photography tip: Capture the façade's carvings in side lighting for maximum texture.
  • Guided tours: Available through local guides and Assisi's cathedral circuit.
  • Nearby food options: Osteria Piazzetta dell'Erba and Ristorante Il Vicoletto offer nearby dining.

Is Cattedrale di San Rufino Worth Visiting?

Without a doubt. The Cattedrale di San Rufino is one of the top attractions in Assisi for anyone seeking to understand the city's spiritual heritage. It's not only an architectural marvel but also a living link to the saints who shaped the town's identity. Its layered history, Roman foundations, and sacred relics make it an unmissable part of any visit to Assisi.

Nearby Attractions to Cattedrale di San Rufino

  • Basilica di Santa Chiara – The peaceful resting place of Saint Clare, featuring stunning valley views.
  • Piazza del Comune – The lively heart of Assisi, lined with medieval palaces and cafés.
  • Temple of Minerva – A Roman temple now transformed into the Baroque Church of Santa Maria sopra Minerva.
  • Chiesa Nuova – Built on the birthplace of Saint Francis, blending legend and Renaissance style.
  • Rocca Maggiore – The city's medieval fortress offering panoramic views of the Umbrian Valley.

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

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