San Francesco, Gothic church in Volterra, Italy.

San Francesco is a Gothic church in Volterra with a large single nave and several chapels positioned along its sides. The building displays typical Franciscan architectural features with stone walls and traditional structural elements.

The church was founded in 1251 when local authorities granted permission for the Franciscans to establish themselves in Volterra. This event marked the beginning of an important religious institution that shaped the city.

The Guidi counts held the patronage of San Francesco, and their marble monuments still line the interior. The venerated Madonna di San Sebastiano, an early 14th-century icon, was moved here from the no longer extant church of San Sebastiano and now sits above the main altar in a baroque frame of clouds, putti and angels.

The church stands at the edge of Volterra's medieval centre, a short walk from the historic core. The Cappella della Croce di Giorno opens off the side of the nave, so look for its entrance before reaching the main altar. Three low stone steps lead up to the green wooden doors of the facade.

The baptismal font was carved in 1552 by Giovanni Battista Bava, a date and sculptor recorded in the church's furnishings. Look for it near the entrance area rather than among the side altars, where the Guidi monuments draw most attention.