Basilica of Saint Francis of Assisi
Umbria
The Basilica of Saint Francis of Assisi, located in Umbria, Italy, is the mother church of the Roman Catholic Order of Friars Minor Conventual and a pivotal Christian pilgrimage site. Constructed beginning in 1228, it is built into the hillside and consists of two main churches-the Upper and Lower Basilicas-and a crypt housing the remains of Saint Francis. The Upper Basilica is an early Italian Gothic masterpiece, richly decorated with frescoes by prominent medieval artists such as Giotto, Cimabue, and Simone Martini, illustrating the life of Saint Francis and marking a significant development in Italian art. The Lower Basilica features a single-nave Egyptian cross plan with ribbed vaults and houses chapels adorned with artworks from the 14th to 17th centuries. The basilica complex includes the Sacro Convento friary and is a distinctive landmark for visitors approaching Assisi. Despite damage from a 1997 earthquake, it has been carefully restored and continues to be a spiritual and artistic beacon. The basilica also holds historical significance as a site of interfaith prayer gatherings initiated by Pope John Paul II.
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Astuce: Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and experience a more contemplative atmosphere. Advance ticket reservations are recommended for guided tours, especially during peak pilgrimage seasons. Discounts are often available for students, seniors, and groups. Allocate time to explore both Upper and Lower Basilicas and the crypt. Check the official website for current opening hours and special events.
Faits intéressants
- •The basilica is a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2000 due to its cultural and artistic importance.
- •Its frescoes by Giotto and other medieval masters are considered foundational to the development of Italian Renaissance art.
- •The hill on which the basilica stands was once called the 'Hill of Hell' as it was a site for executions before being renamed 'Hill of Paradise'.
- •The 1997 earthquake caused the collapse of the vault in the Upper Basilica, tragically killing two friars and two specialists.
- •Pope John Paul II held interfaith World Days of Prayer for Peace at the basilica, gathering representatives from over 120 religions and denominations.
Histoire
The basilica was commissioned immediately after Saint Francis's canonization in 1228 by Pope Gregory IX, who laid its foundation stone.
The Lower Basilica was completed by 1230, serving as the saint's burial place, while the Upper Basilica was finished in 1253.
The church was consecrated by Pope Innocent IV and elevated to Papal Church status by Pope Nicholas IV in 1288.
The piazza leading to the basilica was enhanced with colonnades in 1474 to accommodate pilgrims.
In 1818, the saint's remains were rediscovered beneath the Lower Basilica floor, leading to the construction of the crypt under Pope Pius VII.
A devastating earthquake in 1997 caused partial collapse and damage to frescoes, resulting in a two-year restoration.
The basilica has hosted significant interfaith peace gatherings, notably in 1986 and 2002 under Pope John Paul II.
Guide du lieu
Upper Basilica1239-1253
An architectural and artistic masterpiece of early Italian Gothic style, the Upper Basilica features vaulted ceilings and houses some of the finest fresco cycles depicting the life of Saint Francis by Giotto, Cimabue, and other medieval painters. Its luminous interior and frescoes mark a turning point in Italian art history.
Lower Basilica1228-1230
The Lower Basilica has a single nave with ribbed cross vaults and Gothic elements combined with Romanesque solidity. It contains chapels such as the Chapel of Saint Catherine and the Chapel of Saint Anthony Abbot, decorated with frescoes from the 14th to 17th centuries, and houses the crypt where Saint Francis is buried.
Crypt of Saint Francis1818
Located beneath the Lower Basilica, the crypt contains the remains of Saint Francis and some of his closest followers. It was built in the early 19th century to allow pilgrims to venerate the saint more closely.
Sacro Convento Friary13th century
The adjoining friary complex that serves as the residence and headquarters of the Franciscan Order. It has historically supported the basilica's religious functions and accommodated pilgrims.
Contact
Téléphone: 075 819001
