San Francesco ad Alto, Franciscan church in Ancona, Italy.
San Francesco ad Alto is a church perched on Colle Astagno with multiple altars and architectural elements reflecting various construction periods spanning several centuries. The structure displays a blend of stylistic features that together show the long history of the place.
Saint Francis of Assisi chose this location during his visit to Ancona in 1219 to establish a church and the first Franciscan convent. Over the centuries the building underwent multiple transformations, eventually converted into a military hospital in 1863 following Italian unification.
The church was long a destination for renowned artists who created works for its spaces, including pieces by Carlo Crivelli and Titian. The artistic legacy visible here reflects how deeply this place was woven into the life of the community across centuries.
The location sits on a hilltop, so expect steep approaches and wear appropriate footwear. The terrain can become slippery in wet weather, making a visit during fair conditions more enjoyable and safer.
A friar named Gabriele Ferretti expanded the complex between 1422 and 1425 by adding a dormitory for residents and a covered portico at the entrance. These additions made the space more practical for a growing community living on site.
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