Papal Basilica and Sacred Convent of Saint Francis in Assisi

Absolutely incredible interior. I went here with my wife for the display of St. Francis of Assisi. The frescoes are beautiful and the experience was truly moving. I even got a one of the Friars to bless my rosary. No photos inside so please be respectful of that.

The Basilica Papale di San Francesco in Assisi is a seminal monument of Italian Gothic architecture and the spiritual epicenter of the Franciscan Order. Perched on the "Hill of Hell" (renamed the "Hill of Paradise"), this UNESCO World Heritage site is a dual-structured sanctuary consisting of two superimposed churches—the Lower Basilica and the Upper Basilica—and a subterranean crypt housing the remains of Saint Francis. History & Importance Commissioned in 1228 by Pope Gregory IX, immediately after the canonization of Saint Francis, the complex was designed to serve as both a burial place for the saint and a visual encyclopedia of Franciscan theology. Its importance to the history of Western art is unparalleled; it was here that the rigid Byzantine style transitioned into the more humanistic, naturalistic approach of the early Renaissance. It remains a pontifical basilica with extraterritorial status, symbolizing the universal message of peace and poverty. Special Highlights • Giotto’s Fresco Cycles: The Upper Basilica houses the famous 28-scene cycle "Legend of St. Francis," traditionally attributed to Giotto, which redefined spatial perspective in art. • The Cimabue Crucifixion: Located in the transept of the Upper Basilica, this dramatic work showcases the emotional intensity characteristic of late 13th-century painting. • The Tomb of Saint Francis: The stone sarcophagus in the crypt, rediscovered in 1818, is the focal point for millions of pilgrims. • The Sacro Convento: The massive friary attached to the church, which features a vast library and a multi-level cloister. Accessibility and Navigation • Ways & How to Reach: Assisi is accessible by train via the Firenze-Terontola-Perugia-Foligno line. From the Assisi station, a shuttle bus ("Linea C") transports visitors uphill to the historic center. The Basilica is located at the western end of the town. • Parking: The town is largely pedestrianized. Drivers should use the "Parcheggio Giovanni Paolo II" or "Parcheggio Porta San Giacomo," both of which offer elevator access or short walks to the Basilica. • Entrance & Tickets: Entry to the Basilica is free of charge. However, visitors are encouraged to book a "Pilgrim's Pass" or a guided tour through the Info Point for a small fee if they wish to access the Treasury Museum. Atmosphere and Vibe • Lighting & Decor: The Lower Basilica is characterized by a "mystical darkness," with low, heavy vaults and flickering candlelight creating a somber, subterranean mood. In contrast, the Upper Basilica is soaring, airy, and flooded with natural light through high stained-glass windows, emphasizing the "celestial" aspect of the faith. • Noise & Crowd Density: Despite the high volume of tourists, a strict policy of silence is enforced by the resident friars. Crowd density is significant during the feast of St. Francis (October 4th) and Easter, but the expansive outdoor plazas provide ample breathing room. Service, Quality, and Facilities • Amenities: A comprehensive Info Point is located in the Lower Plaza, providing multilingual support. The site also features a specialized bookshop and a "Sala Stampa" (Press Room) for international media. • Connectivity & Restrooms: Public Wi-Fi is limited within the stone walls to preserve the spiritual atmosphere. Modern, high-capacity restrooms are available in the lower plaza near the parking access points. • Seating: Within the churches, wooden pews are reserved primarily for those in prayer. For tourists, stone benches and low walls are situated throughout the exterior courtyards and the "Piazza Inferiore."

The incredible beauty of the elevated community of Assisi is a fitting backdrop(for lack of a better word) for the architectural splendor of the basilica. While not as large as many other basilicas in Italy, this one impresses with an intricacy of details that infuses the stone with a unique sense of warmth unlike any other church or basilica I've visited over several trips to Italy. The relative simplicity of the facade with its iconic mandala stained glass window reflects the simplicity of the life St. Francis chose over the wealth of his family. The magnificent setting atop the ridge, with panoramic views of Assisi and communities beyond with vast expanses of surrounding wilderness emphasizes how dedicated St. Francis was as a champion of nature and the environment. Entrance to the Basilica is free and it is a perpetually popular destination for tourists and pilgrims alike. The entire complex is meticulously maintained, both building and grounds. There is a wonderful gift shop with quality jewelry and gifts all very reasonably priced. Do not miss visiting the tomb of St. Francis below the main floor of the basilica! It is a warm, welcoming, sacred space that embraces one with the true essence of St. Francis: humility, gentleness and profound love.

My favorite Church in Italy. I did a retreat here and it was life changing. I do recommend you follow all the rules, silence and order. If you get the authorisation to take pictures you can register. My advice: this is not a place of tourism, it’s a sacred space. Your serenity impact others as well as your ability to pray. Keeping that healthy behaviour is key. Serenity and healing are elements that you can see in others here and in yourself. Please donate to the charities of the Franciscans.

So special to experience these beautiful churches - up and down! We got to enjoy an English mass at 9am on Sunday. Touring with Rick Steeves podcast in our ear was great (also the town walk is so good). Loved the museum in the back. The highlight of course was the crypt, to spend some time in the presence of St Francis. Well- we know his presence is with us in Christ, but so cool to see his tomb. The Giotto frescoes are amazing and the ceilings- wow, that blue- I love it.

Massive two floor church. Upper Basilic is used mostly for sightseeing. Lower Basilic contains two prayer places. Additionally it has an entrance to the st. Francesco tomb which has also a separate prayer place. A lot of Holy Masses during whole day and weekdays. Note that you should watch out for guards since in some places you cannot take Photos!

Beautiful interior and exterior. Upper cathedral has an incredible view from the plaza. History and relics are amazing here. You can spend hours exploring. Attending mass here is blessed.

A beautiful basilica. It may require lots of walking. There are cafes and restaurants nearby. I recommend the crepe and hot chocolate drink place with no name. I asked the owner the name of the store and he said no name haha. There are souvenir shops as well and they affordable.