Piazza del Comune (Town Hall Square), Assisi (must see)

Assisi's beating heart, Piazza del Comune, sits atop what could be the Roman Forum or an ancient sacred site – opinions vary. In any case, it's a striking medieval square, teeming with eateries that might cost you an arm and a leg but offer prime spots for people-watching.

A chunk of the magnificent neo-Gothic former post office, decked out with frescoed walls and stunning vaulted ceilings, now houses the tourist office. Overlooking the square are some significant palaces, such as the 14th-century Palazzo dei Priori, but the star of the show remains the former Temple of Minerva, whose façade has been perfectly preserved.

Back in the day, feudal bigwigs flaunted their residential towers here, eventually making way for the rise of merchant-class buildings. By 1305, the Roman temple found itself flanked by the People's Tower, while the Town Hall held court on the south and western sides.

Tip:
Don't forget to check out the Zubboli bookshop, a local institution since 1870, and Bar Minerva, a favorite haunt for a drink.