During the Renaissance Assisi was ruled by different Lords (signorie) whose rule was characterised by frequent conflicts with neighbouring towns involving looting and devastation.
In spite of the difficult times, however, new works and buildings flourished, wonderful masterpieces of Renaissance art.
From the first half of the 16th century, the city became part of the territories of the Papal States on a permanent basis and a new peaceful era began.
Built for public purposes, the building still today offers information services and is the home for a number of associations and for welcoming activities, shows and exhibitions.
Palazzo Bonacquisti features a permanent exhibition called ‘The Face of Saint Francis’, which is constantly being expanded to include new iconographic works.
A number of frescoes, sculptures and works of art may be admired at the Palazzo Bernabei. The MUMA museum is also annexed to this 17th century building.
Palazzo Vallemani, designed around the 17th century by architect Giorgetti, is home to Assisi’s picture gallery and municipal library.
The Oliviera Fountain, traditionally thought to have been designed by Galeazzo Alessi, is a wonderful rectangular basin with large volutes and decorated with coats of arms.
The Oratorio dei Pellegrini is a chapel built in 1457 by the confraternity of SS. Anthony Abbot and James and a masterpiece of Italian Renaissance art in Assisi.
