The Papal Basilica of San Francesco d’Assisi in Umbria is an important landmark of Christianity in Italy. It's dedicated to the famous monk called St. Francis who was born here and went on to found the Franciscan Order. As a reward for its historic and cultural importance it was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2000.
Stay in a beautiful vacation rental in Assisi to experience the best of what this area has to offer!
Construction of the Basilica of St. Francis began in 1228 and originally comprised of two adjacent churches and a stone chamber where the body of the saint was buried.
Stay in a beautiful vacation rental in Assisi to experience the best of what this area has to offer!
Construction of the Basilica of St. Francis began in 1228 and originally comprised of two adjacent churches and a stone chamber where the body of the saint was buried.
Both churches are richly decorated with frescoes and paintings including works by Giotto and Pietro Lorenzetti. The colourful range of exquisite sacred artworks completed here during this period has earned the basilica of Assisi as an important example of Italian arts.
Tragically, two earth shattering earthquakes hit Assisi in 1997 causing severe damage to one of the original churches and other areas of the basilica. Two years of restoration work was needed to return it to its former glory.
Tourists walking through the nave of the upper basilica will be mesmerised by the intricate designs and colours that adorn the ceilings, walls and floors. Look upon the many fascinating frescoes depicting the vivid life of St. Francis.
Tragically, two earth shattering earthquakes hit Assisi in 1997 causing severe damage to one of the original churches and other areas of the basilica. Two years of restoration work was needed to return it to its former glory.
Tourists walking through the nave of the upper basilica will be mesmerised by the intricate designs and colours that adorn the ceilings, walls and floors. Look upon the many fascinating frescoes depicting the vivid life of St. Francis.
Visitors can walk down a stairway to the burial tomb of St. Francis. The Friary of St. Francis stands next to the basilica and is a beautiful sight to behold, built using white and pink stone excavated from Mount Subasio.
Come and see this masterpiece of art and architecture for yourself by including a day trip to Assisi on your next Italian travel plans!
Come and see this masterpiece of art and architecture for yourself by including a day trip to Assisi on your next Italian travel plans!