Lower Basilica of San Francesco, Medieval Catholic church in Assisi, Italy
The Lower Basilica of San Francesco features cross vaulted ceilings, ribbed arches, and extensive frescoes depicting biblical narratives and Saint Francis's life.
Construction began after Saint Francis's canonization in 1228, with Pope Gregory IX laying the first stone, and the saint's body was secretly buried there in 1230.
The interior walls display medieval frescoes by Italian masters including Giotto, Cimabue, and Pietro Lorenzetti, representing religious and theological developments of the period.
Visitors can access the crypt containing Saint Francis's tomb through a stairway in the middle of the nave, with guided tours offering detailed explanations.
The 1818 discovery of Saint Francis's remains beneath the basilica floor led to the construction of a new crypt designed by Pasquale Belli.
Location: Assisi
Part of: Basilica of San Francesco d'Assisi
Website: https://sanfrancescoassisi.org/html/ita/shownews.php?idNews=376&zone=WEBluoghi
GPS coordinates: 43.07482,12.60557
Latest update: August 31, 2025 09:30
Basilica of San Francesco d'Assisi
20 m
Upper Basilica of San Francesco d'Assisi
16 m
Basilica di Santa Chiara
1.1 km
Assisi Cathedral
1 km
Santa Maria Maggiore
925 m
Temple of Minerva
870 m
Rocca Maggiore
691 m
San Martino Chapel
11 m
Abbey of Saint Peter
445 m
Chiesa Nuova
930 m
Santo Stefano
648 m
Treasure Museum of the basilica of Saint Francis in Assisi
47 m
San Francisco Piccolino
975 m
Assisi Diocesan Museum
1.1 km
Museo Civico e Foro Romano
798 m
Cappella Orsini
22 m
Sacro Convento
11 m
Roman Forum and Archaeological Museum
802 m
Chiesa Santa Maria delle Rose
938 m
Museo della Memoria, Assisi 1943-1944 - Visite su prenotazione
918 m
Roman theatre
1.1 km
Fountain
517 m
Equestrian statue of Francis of Assisi
133 m
Palazzo del Capitano del Popolo
851 m
Fonte Marcella
506 m
Foro Romano
808 m
Torre campanaria
831 m
Palazzo Bernabei
1.1 kmReviews
Visited this place? Tap the stars to rate it and share your experience / photos with the community! Try now! You can cancel it anytime.
Discover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes