Church, mosque or temple · UNESCO
Basilica of St Francis of Assisi
Assisi, Italy
A two-level basilica holding frescoes by Giotto and the tomb of St Francis.
Town · Italy · Umbria
Assisi
A pink-stone hill town and pilgrimage site, home to the basilica of St Francis.
about 2.5 h
For storytellers
Why Assisi matters
Assisi rises on the slope of Mount Subasio, a quiet town of pink-white stone where Saint Francis was born. The great Basilica of St Francis, decorated with frescoes by Giotto and others, draws pilgrims and art lovers from all over the world. Beyond the basilica, narrow streets lead to small churches and a hilltop fortress with views over the Umbrian valley. The atmosphere is peaceful and spiritual.
Talking points
- Saint Francis was born here and founded his order in the town.
- The basilica's frescoes are major works of early Italian art.
- The town is built of local pale stone that glows at sunset.
- A hilltop fortress gives views across Umbria.
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