The name 'Porziuncola' derives from the Latin 'portiuncula,' meaning 'small portion,' referring to the tiny piece of land it occupies.
The stone chapel originally belonged to the Benedictine monks of Mount Subasio before being gifted to Saint Francis.
Saint Clare of Assisi received her religious habit and took her vows here in 1211.
The chapel's frescoes were repainted several times due to the fragile nature of the original interior surfaces.
The interior of the chapel features a 14th-century painting by Ilario da Viterbo.
The Basilica was constructed around the chapel specifically to protect the structure from the elements.
The site is designated as the 'Caput et Mater' (Head and Mother) of the entire Franciscan Order.
The Porziuncola is a small 9th-century stone chapel located inside the Basilica of Santa Maria degli Angeli, serving as the holiest site for the Franciscan Order. It is the location where Saint Francis of Assisi received his calling, founded the Order of Friars Minor, and passed away in 1226. The original stone structure is housed within a 16th-century Mannerist basilica designed by Galeazzo Alessi. The chapel’s exterior is covered in frescoes by Friedrich Overbeck, depicting the 'Pardon of Assisi' indulgence. It is the site of the first-ever plenary indulgence granted by the Pope. The surrounding basilica contains the Capella del Transito, the infirmary where Saint Francis died. The site remains an active place of pilgrimage and religious observance.
The view of the chapel’s exterior facade from the nave of the surrounding Basilica.
Visit the Chapel of the Transito, located in the south transept, to see the location where Saint Francis died.
Participate in the silent procession or evening prayer if visiting during a weekday.
Look for the frescoed exterior walls of the Porziuncola, which are often overlooked in favor of the inner sanctum.
Do not attempt to touch the original stone walls of the Porziuncola; the structure is fragile and protected.
The Basilica remains open daily, but the Porziuncola itself may be closed to the public during scheduled liturgical services.
Modest dress is strictly required: shoulders and knees must be covered. Silence is mandatory inside the chapel. Photography is prohibited within the sacred interior space.
