Assisi is a well-preserved postcard town in Umbria that is one of (second to only the Vatican) Italy's most-popular religious-pilgrimage destination. Located high on a hilltop, it has an air of mystical serenity in keeping with its history. Assisi was the birthplace of St. Francis (the founder of the Franciscan order of friars), and the churches and crypt that bear his name draw a steady stream of pilgrims and sightseers every year. Although the town was rocked by an earthquake in 1997, much of the damage has been repaired. One of the most severely damaged buildings, however, was the treasured Basilica of San Francesco, known for its vivid frescoes by Giotto that depict the life of the saint. The upper basilica has recently reopened and, although restoration continues, many of the beloved frescoes can be admired again. The lower basilica and St. Francis' tomb are also open to the public.

Other places of interest include the Church of Santa Chiara, a medieval fortress (La Rocca Maggiore), the Piazza del Comune (the old town center) and St. Peter's church. Or just stroll the narrow, picturesque streets and listen to the musicians practicing nearby (though they may be drowned out by construction noises -- many buildings are still under renovation).

If Assisi is indeed a place you wish to one day visit, you may want to visit during one of the town's numerous celebrations:

• The Feast of Calendimaggio, a five-day coming-of-spring festival with medieval costumes, dances and songs (around the first week of May).
  
  
• Palio di San Rufino: Assisi's three districts (St. Francis, Saint Rufinus & Dive Maria) compete to win the pennant for their own honor. (When? The last Thursday, Friday & Saturday of August.)
  
  
• The Feast of St. Francis (4 October), which celebrates the saint's transition from this life into the next. During this two-day festival, the entire town is illuminated by oil lamps.
  
  
• Natale in Assisi: "Living Nativity Scenes" are realized inside churches and every square or Piazza between December 24th & January 6th.
  
  

If you are traveling to Italy and in Assisi during one of these dates, reserve accommodations well ahead of time -- the city will be filled with pilgrims, not to mention tourists.