The basilica contains the tombs of Accursius, Odofredus, and Rolandino de' Passeggeri, foundational figures in medieval legal history.
It is the only church in Bologna that uses flying buttresses as a structural element on the exterior.
The high altar is decorated with an imposing 14th-century marble altarpiece by Pier Paolo delle Masegne.
The monastery complex originally housed a significant library and scriptorium associated with the Franciscan order.
The facade's design was significantly altered during the 19th-century restoration process, which aimed to restore its original medieval appearance.
The Basilica di San Francesco in Bologna was the first example of French Gothic architecture in Italy, modeled after the Basilica of Saint-Denis. Construction began in 1236 under the direction of the Franciscan friars and was completed in the 14th century. The exterior features a prominent row of flying buttresses, a hallmark of the Gothic style, surrounding the apse. The interior follows a Cistercian layout with three naves divided by octagonal pillars. It houses the significant funerary monuments of the glossators, the medieval law professors of the University of Bologna. The church is constructed primarily of red brick, reflecting the traditional building material of the Emilia-Romagna region. Over the centuries, the complex suffered damage from bombings during World War II, leading to extensive 20th-century restorations. The cloister complex adjacent to the church contains two distinctive cloisters, one of which houses the tombs of the legal scholars.
The view from the side of the square looking toward the apse provides the best angle to capture the flying buttresses.
Visit the cloisters at the rear for a significantly quieter and more contemplative experience compared to the main nave.
Look for the distinct marble sarcophagi raised on pillars outside the church, which are unique to the Bolognese tradition for law professors.
Combine your visit with a walk through the surrounding historic district to see the contrast between the Gothic architecture and the nearby medieval towers.
Do not mistake the active church services for tourist visiting hours; avoid walking through the nave during mass.
The church may be temporarily restricted to visitors during daily religious services and mass.
Maintain a low voice and respectful attire that covers shoulders and knees; remove hats when entering.
