Until the end of 2025, more than a hundred works by Banksy are on display at one of Umbria’s most breathtaking spots: La Rocca Maggiore in Assisi. This medieval fortress, perched atop a high hill overlooking the town, not only provides a dramatic backdrop for the exhibition but also rewards visitors with sweeping views of the Umbrian hills and Assisi’s iconic rooftops.
A Message of Peace
The show is aptly titled “Peace on Earth,” a nod to Banksy’s famous mural in Bethlehem. Its emblem, a dove wearing a bulletproof vest and clutching an olive branch, perfectly captures Banksy’s trademark blend of irony, power, and unwavering call for peace.
Who Is Banksy?
Arguably the most enigmatic and influential street artist of our time, Banksy hails from Bristol and first picked up a spray can at fourteen. To stay one step ahead of the authorities, he perfected his stencil technique, allowing him to work quickly under the cover of night. His international breakthrough came in 2006, and in 2018, he famously sabotaged his own artwork at auction to critique the commercial art world.
Highlights of the Collection
- Virgin Mary (2003): A Renaissance‑style Madonna scene—with a dark twist: the infant is fed from a “poisonous” bottle.
- Napalm (2004): Banksy’s reimagining of the iconic Vietnam War photograph—this time featuring Mickey Mouse and Ronald McDonald.
- Girl with Balloon (2004): The original screen print of the little girl reaching for her red, heart‑shaped balloon.
Practical Info
- Location: La Rocca Maggiore—prepare for a bit of a climb, but it’s worth every step!
- Opening Hours: 10 AM–7 PM in May and September; 10 AM–8 PM from June through August.
- Tickets: € 8 (free for children under 14). Admission to the fortress is included.
- Pro Tips: Park for free at the Ospedale, catch your breath with a coffee at Bar Giardino San Lorenzo on the way up, and finish your visit with a drink on La Rocca’s terrace.
- Another free parking is San Giacomo in Via Egidio Albornoz, 06081 Assisi PG
- More Info: Visit Assisi, Banksy “Peace on Earth”.
Visiting Banksy in Assisi is more than a dive into the world of street art; it’s an unforgettable experience at one of Italy’s most stunning and maybe underrated historic sites. It is definitely worth the climb!
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