The basilica is built into the side of a hill, necessitating the construction of massive substructures to support the weight of the two churches.
Saint Francis's remains were hidden for centuries beneath the floor to prevent theft by rival Italian city-states, only being rediscovered in 1818.
Cimabue’s frescoes in the Upper Basilica suffer from oxidation, causing the lead white paint to turn black and creating a negative-image effect.
The Lower Basilica's layout follows a Latin cross plan, while the Upper Basilica is characterized by a wide single-nave design influenced by Cistercian architecture.
The complex was severely damaged by the 1997 earthquake, which caused part of the vault to collapse and destroyed several important frescoes.
The basilica contains a notable stained glass program in the Upper Basilica, which is among the oldest in Italy.
The 'Stigmata' fresco in the Upper Basilica is one of the earliest depictions of the event in monumental art.
The bell tower was completed in 1239, predating the completion of the rest of the basilica complex.
The Basilica of Saint Francis in Assisi is a UNESCO World Heritage site comprising two superimposed churches, the Lower and Upper Basilicas, consecrated in 1253. The complex houses the tomb of Saint Francis in a stone crypt located beneath the high altar of the Lower Basilica. The Upper Basilica features a cycle of 28 frescoes depicting the life of Saint Francis, attributed to Giotto and his workshop, which revolutionized Western painting by introducing naturalism and human emotion. The site serves as the mother church of the Franciscan Order and remains an active place of pilgrimage and religious study. The architecture blends Romanesque and Italian Gothic styles, characterized by ribbed vaults and pointed arches. The site also includes the Sacred Convent, which houses a library of medieval manuscripts and rare liturgical volumes. The surrounding Piazza Inferiore provides a viewing platform of the Umbrian valley.
The view of the basilica facade from the lower piazza during the golden hour.
Visit both levels separately, as they have different atmospheres and focus areas.
Use the audio guides provided by the friary for historical context on the fresco cycles.
Look for the smaller, less-crowded side chapels in the Lower Basilica for a quieter experience.
Do not attempt to photograph inside the Lower Basilica or the crypt, as photography is strictly prohibited in these areas.
The basilica remains open year-round, but specific chapels or the crypt may be closed during liturgical services.
Modest clothing covering shoulders and knees is strictly enforced; silence is required inside the crypt.
