Lower Basilica of San Francesco, Medieval Catholic church in Assisi, Italy
Description
The Lower Basilica of San Francesco is a Catholic church in Assisi with cross vaults, ribbed arches, and extensive medieval wall paintings. The single-nave interior leads to a central stairway descending to the crypt, while side chapels flank the main space.
History
Construction started in 1228 after the canonization of Francis, with Pope Gregory IX laying the foundation stone. The saint's body was secretly placed in the foundation in 1230 to prevent relic theft.
Culture
The paintings on the walls tell stories from the Bible and episodes from the saint's journey, serving as teaching tools for worshippers who could not read. Visitors today can see how medieval artists used color and composition to transform stone interiors into narrative spaces.
Practical
The descent to the crypt follows a stairway in the center of the nave, easily accessible for visitors. Guided tours offer explanations about the paintings and architecture, and it helps to allow time for both levels.
Did you know?
The rediscovery of the remains in 1818 happened after nearly 600 years of concealment beneath the floor. Pasquale Belli then designed a new crypt that allowed access to the tomb and reshaped the underground space.
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