After the Rain

We have been blessed with great weather since our arrival in Italy last month. But yesterday, it rained all morning and the weather lent itself to a leisure. No hurry, no worries. 

In between the raindrops we walked up to our favorite cafe for cappuccino, where we had a delightful conversation with a couple from Northern England who also are here on an extended stay. 

We were then back home for lunch and more luxurious time as we awaited the finale to the day’s rain. We haven’t had many downpours which is kind of unusual for this time of year here in Italy’s green heart. The soil which produces the olive trees and vineyards depends upon the waters of the autumn season. 

After the rain, the sun made an appearance. Chill remained in the air and the buildings sponsored a glow that is enjoyed by the few who are not rushing through town. It was serene, quiet and perfect for a lovely walk, una passeggiata, as the Italians say. 

Our passeggiata found us strolling down to the lower reach of town, along   Via Sant Paolo to Via Metastasio and then a left and sharp right towards the beautiful Vicolo Santa Margherita where the Chiesa di Santa Margherita sits as it has since the 1200’s. Entertaining the doors to the tiny gothic styled church brought not only the warmth from a modern heating system, but from the beauty of the interior. The doors are always open and the beautiful Saint Margaret is always ready to welcome the few daily visitors who have, as we have, come to know about one of Assisi’s best treasures.

The tiny piazza in front of S. Margherita overlooks the Basilica of San Francesco and, simultaneously, the valley to the left and the mountains to the right. Stunning views that are rarely shared by others so the benches are always available. Ready and waiting for those who come in contemplation or in plain, old awe of what’s in the neighborhood.

We paused for a while, both inside and out, before resuming our sunset walk. This is why we come back, over and over, to Assisi. For evenings such as this. We stopped several times to check out the setting sun and its resulting array of gorgeous vignettes as it played with the clouds in the stillness of the valley. We walked back up to the piazza that fronts the Chiesa Santa Chiara and then the stillness was interrupted by the lovely carillons that signal the end of the day.

As we returned to our apartment, we crossed the Piazza Commune for what I am sure was at least the thousandth time, and noted that the tower is now lit by blue lights. It’s beginning to look a bit like Christmas. 

 

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