IT
EN
ES
FR
IT
EN
ES
FR
IT
EN
ES
FR
IT
EN
ES
FR
Built in the 13th century to honor Saint Francis of Assisi, the founder of the Franciscan order and patron saint of Italy, the basilica is a masterpiece of Gothic-Renaissance architecture.
Divided into two parts, the Lower and Upper Basilica, both rich in artwork and extraordinary frescoes, the structure stands as an important pilgrimage and prayer site. The frescoes, created by artists like Giotto and Cimabue, narrate the life and miracles of Saint Francis, offering a poignant glimpse into faith and religious history.
The Lower Basilica, with its simple Romanesque style, captures the essence of humility and poverty preached by Saint Francis. The Upper Basilica, on the other hand, showcases impressive elegance with its pointed arches and frescoed windows, creating an atmosphere of sublime beauty.
Inclusion in the UNESCO list underscores the universal value of the Basilica of San Francesco, not just in terms of artistry, but also for its religious and historical significance. It is a place of reflection, spirituality, and art that continues to inspire visitors from around the world, celebrating Saint Francis's message of peace and love, as well as the beauty of faith.
Assisi, located in the heart of Umbria, is one of Italy's most fascinating cities, renowned worldwide for its rich religious history and cultural heritage. This sacred place is closely associated with Saint Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of Italy, and is home to some of the most important Franciscan sites. Since 2000, Assisi, the Basilica of Saint Francis, and other Franciscan sites have been recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites due to their spiritual significance and architectural beauty.
Assisi has ancient origins, with evidence of settlements dating back to the Umbrian and Roman periods. However, the city is best known as the birthplace of Saint Francis, born here in 1181 or 1182. Saint Francis is famous for renouncing his material possessions to live a life of poverty and service, founding the Franciscan Order in 1209.
Assisi has become a major pilgrimage center for those following in the footsteps of the saint, drawn by the spirituality that permeates the city and its surroundings. Saint Francis is remembered for his love of nature, his preaching of peace, and his commitment to the poor and marginalized.
The Basilica of Saint Francis is the spiritual heart of Assisi and one of the most revered sites in Christianity. Built between 1228 and 1253, the basilica is an extraordinary example of Italian Gothic architecture and houses one of the most important collections of medieval frescoes.
The Basilica of Saint Francis is an exceptional example of Gothic architecture, with its majestic vaults, rose windows, and colorful stained glass. The interior is adorned with frescoes illustrating the life of the saint and biblical scenes, creating a visual journey that guides worshippers and visitors on a spiritual path.
Giotto’s frescoes, revolutionary for their use of perspective and the expressiveness of the figures, mark a turning point in Western art, influencing generations of subsequent artists.
In addition to the Basilica of Saint Francis, Assisi is home to several other significant Franciscan sites that offer further insight into the life and legacy of Saint Francis.
The Basilica of Saint Clare is dedicated to Saint Clare, one of Saint Francis’s first followers and founder of the Poor Clares. Built in 1257, the basilica houses the saint’s remains and features frescoes and artworks that reflect the Franciscan spirituality.
The Hermitage of the Carceri is a retreat located on Mount Subasio, a few kilometers from Assisi. Here, Saint Francis would withdraw for prayer and meditation, surrounded by the nature he loved so much. The hermitage offers an atmosphere of peace and reflection, with trails through oak forests and caves used by friars for meditation.
The Church of San Damiano is another important Franciscan site, known as the place where Saint Francis received the divine call to "rebuild the Church." Saint Clare lived here and founded the first Poor Clares convent.
Assisi and its Franciscan sites symbolize Christian spirituality, reflecting the values of peace, love for nature, and humility preached by Saint Francis. The city attracts pilgrims and tourists from all over the world, who come to explore the places that inspired one of Christianity's most beloved saints.
Assisi is also a cultural center, with a rich calendar of events, concerts, and festivals that celebrate the city's artistic and spiritual heritage. The Assisi Festival, for example, is a major cultural event that draws artists and spectators from around the world.
In 2000, Assisi, the Basilica of Saint Francis, and other Franciscan sites were declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This recognition highlights Assisi's importance as a center of spirituality and culture, as well as its historical significance in the evolution of medieval art and architecture.
The UNESCO site includes the Basilica of Saint Francis, the Basilica of Saint Clare, the Hermitage of the Prisons, the Church of San Damiano, the Cathedral of San Rufino, and the Palazzo del Capitano del Popolo, among other significant locations.
Assisi offers a unique experience of spirituality, history, and natural beauty. The city is easily walkable, with cobbled streets leading to historic monuments, churches, and breathtaking views.
Assisi is easily accessible from various locations in Italy, with transportation options including trains, buses, and cars:
Assisi is a city of extraordinary beauty and spiritual depth, where history, art, and faith come together in a unique experience. The Basilica of Saint Francis and the other Franciscan sites offer a journey through time and the soul, allowing visitors to connect with the legacy of one of Christianity's most beloved saints.
Visiting Assisi is an opportunity to discover the rich cultural and spiritual heritage of Umbria, immersing yourself in an atmosphere of peace and contemplation that continues to inspire people of all faiths and backgrounds.
