Basilica di San Francesco

Because of frescoes which are the main attraction in this cathedral, are most important ones around main altar presenting The History of the True Cross from 1400s. In those times most people were illiterate and for them to understand Bible is to make it like a comic books today.....pictures that follow and tell a story. There is another story on the wall, fresco, that was amazing to me. Of archangel Gabriel.

A must for Piero della Francesca fans, people who don’t care much should leave space for those, who can appreciate. This is one of the most otherworldly early Renaissance art experiences and the 30 minute slot allotted to visitors will surely stay in their memories forever! Otherwise it’s a nice experience too. Friendly staff, good explanation aids provided. Well worth the effort!

Basilica of San Francesco is a Medieval church with the beautiful fresco cycle Legends of the True Cross by Piero della Francesca.

Impressive historical church in the middle of the city center of Arezzo. You definitely will walk along this nice place and building when you pay a visit to Arezzo. We were here in September 2021, while it was not too crowded. We didn’t pay a visit to the inside because you can see the inside through a “door window”… .

The Basilica of San Francesco in Arezzo is a stunning example of medieval architecture and a treasure trove of Renaissance art. Historical Background The basilica, dedicated to St. Francis of Assisi, was constructed in the late 13th century. The Franciscans, who had settled in Arezzo earlier, began building the church around 1290. The construction continued into the 14th century, with the bell tower added in the 16th century. Over time, the church underwent various modifications, including Baroque additions in the 17th century, which were later removed during 19th-century restorations. Architectural Features The basilica's exterior is relatively simple, reflecting the Franciscans' emphasis on humility. The interior, however, is a single nave with chapels on the sides, showcasing a blend of Gothic and Romanesque styles. Beneath the main church lies a lower church, now used as an exhibition space. Artistic Highlights The basilica is most famous for the "Legend of the True Cross," a cycle of frescoes by Piero della Francesca, located in the Cappella Maggiore (Major Chapel). These frescoes, completed in the mid-15th century, are considered masterpieces of Early Renaissance art. They depict scenes from the Golden Legend by Jacobus de Voragine, focusing on the history of the cross on which Christ was crucified. Other notable artworks include a large painted crucifix by the Master of San Francesco and a Maestà (Madonna in Majesty) by Guido da Siena. Cultural Significance The Basilica of San Francesco is not just a place of worship but also a cultural landmark. It attracts art lovers and historians from around the world, eager to admire its architectural beauty and artistic treasures. @joelsepel @joelesepelofficial

Amazing church with many frescoes including the ones of Piero della Francesca. A lot of the frescoes are partially damaged but nonetheless stunning!

The church by itself is stunning and the frescoes magnificent. The online booking experience is awful, it is not only under any acceptable level of functionality. It would have been awful in 2003, as of 2025 it is not even acceptable. A non expert using chat gpt or similar AI, would have done better. Hope to never again use the online booking for this location.

Frescos are very nice but there's a laxk of information explaining the scenes. For €9 information sign should be possible or the audio guide should have been included instead of asking an additional €4. When we came it was very quiet, but staff insisted that we reserved a timeslot 1.5 hours later, which was clearly unnecessary and felt like a way to create a hype.