Gates

Visitors generally enter or leave Assisi by one of its gates.  Oh, I suppose if one is an invading barbarian or a would-be conquering monarch, it would be more fashionable, sword drawn, to climb over the walls.  However, for the past few centuries most people seem to gain entry by foot, horse or vehicle, without too much difficulty.  Although, when pedestrians and vehicles are trying to pass through simultaneously, climbing the wall might be safer.   

These four gates, each one a "porta", were built around the 14th Century, meaning before Columbus. 

The porta above has the old cypress tree that I mentioned earlier growing on it.  Below is Porta San Francesco.

Finally, here is Porta Nuova, the "New Gate."  (must be late 14th Century)

Early this morning one of the large wooden doors of Porta Nouva was partially closed, as seen in this picture.  Wouldn't want to get locked out and have to knock to get back in.  Ciao.