Assisi, the Basilica of San Francesco and Other Franciscan Sites in Italy

Facts and Data

Webpages:
Official Unesco Page
Website of the property

Basis Data:
Unesco World heritage since: 2000
Size of heritage: 14,563 ha
- Buffer zone: 4,087 ha

Coordinates:
Longitude: 12,622°
Latitude: 43,066°

Summary

Assisi, a medieval city built on a hill, is the birthplace of Saint Francis, closely associated with the work of the Franciscan Order. Its medieval art masterpieces, such as the Basilica of San Francesco and paintings by Cimabue, Pietro Lorenzetti, Simone Martini and Giotto, have made Assisi a fundamental reference point for the development of Italian and European art and architecture.

Location on Map

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Assisi, the Basilica of San Francesco and Other Franciscan Sites

Located in the Umbria region of central Italy, Assisi is a small town that holds immense historical and religious significance. The UNESCO World Heritage site of "Assisi, the Basilica of San Francesco and Other Franciscan Sites" encompasses the town of Assisi and its surrounding areas, including the Basilica of San Francesco and other important Franciscan sites.

History

The history of Assisi dates back to ancient times, with evidence of human settlements in the area dating as far back as the 9th century BC. However, it was during the Middle Ages that Assisi gained prominence as the birthplace of Saint Francis, the founder of the Franciscan Order.

Saint Francis, born in 1181, dedicated his life to poverty, humility, and the love of nature. His teachings and way of life attracted followers from all walks of life, and the Franciscan Order quickly spread across Europe. Assisi became a pilgrimage site for devout Catholics, and the construction of the Basilica of San Francesco began in 1228, shortly after Saint Francis' death.

The Basilica of San Francesco is a masterpiece of medieval architecture and art. Divided into the Upper Church and the Lower Church, it houses stunning frescoes by renowned artists such as Giotto and Cimabue. These frescoes depict scenes from the life of Saint Francis and are considered some of the most important works of art in Italy.

Current State

Today, Assisi and its Franciscan sites continue to attract visitors from around the world. The town itself is a charming blend of medieval architecture, narrow streets, and picturesque views of the surrounding countryside. The Basilica of San Francesco remains the centerpiece of Assisi, drawing pilgrims and art enthusiasts alike.

The Basilica underwent extensive restoration work in the late 20th century to preserve its architectural integrity and protect the precious frescoes. The restoration efforts were successful in maintaining the beauty and historical significance of the Basilica, ensuring that future generations can appreciate its splendor.

In addition to the Basilica of San Francesco, the UNESCO World Heritage site includes other important Franciscan sites in Assisi. These include the Basilica of Santa Chiara, dedicated to Saint Clare, a close companion of Saint Francis, and the Hermitage of the Carceri, a peaceful retreat nestled in the nearby Monte Subasio Regional Park.

Address
Distance: 0,5 mi
Via Macelli Vecchi 1
06081 Assisi
Italy

Time Information

Checkout: 10:30 - Checkin: 12:30
Reception
Weekday: -
Weekend: closed

Videos from the area

Prayer on the Tomb of St. Francis of Assisi and Holy Mass

Published: October 05, 2013
Length: 13:26 min
Rating: 0 of 5
Author: vatican

Pope Francis visits the Basilica and the Crypt where he venerates the tomb of Saint Francis. He then celebrates the Holy Mass in the Square on front of the Basilica.

Video e audio originale del crollo della Basilica di Assisi del 26 settembre 1997

Published: December 16, 2012
Length: 33:50 min
Rating: 3 of 5
Author: Mirko Loche

Nelle riprese di Paolo Antolini del 26 settembre 1997, il video e l'audio originale del crollo della basilica si San Francesco ad Assisi dove persero la vita 4 persone. al minuto 4 il vero...

Il Canto del mare

Published: November 11, 2013
Length: 57:23 min
Rating: 4 of 5
Author: acisum73

34° Giovani Verso Assisi 2013.

ASSISI

Published: November 15, 2009
Length: 24:29 min
Rating: 4 of 5
Author: renedulac

Due stupendi luoghi ad Assisi che mi hanno colpito particolarmente e che sono stati fondamentali nella vita di San Francesco. Base musicale concessa da Canto Gesù e tratta dal canto "Getta...

Cerimonia di firma del Patto d'amicizia tra Assisi e Monte Sant'Angelo

Published: December 12, 2014
Length: 10:36 min
Rating: 5 of 5
Author: palazzocelestini

Siglato il Patto d'amicizia tra le Città Unesco di Assisi e Monte Sant'Angelo Antonio di Iasio, Sindaco di Monte Sant'Angelo: “Un momento storico” Claudio Ricci, Sindaco di Assisi:...

EP. #90 Amazing Assisi, Italy -part 1 [2/3]

Published: January 25, 2010
Length: 09:50 min
Rating: 0 of 5
Author: aroadretraveled

http://www.aroadretraveled.com for Full Episode - Visiting the medieval Umbrian town of Assisi during the festivities of spring. Travel tips, hotels, shopping, churches, taverna, food and more!

Videos provided by Youtube are under the copyright of their owners.

Near airports

Perugia / San Egidio Airport
Medium airport - 6 mi (10 km)

Rieti Airport
Small airport - 46 mi (74 km)

Arezzo Airport
Small airport - 47 mi (77 km)

Ancona / Falconara Airport
Medium airport - 53 mi (86 km)

Rimini / Miramare - Federico Fellini International Airport
Medium airport - 66 mi (107 km)

Forlì Airport
Medium airport - 83 mi (134 km)

Ciampino Airport
Large airport - 88 mi (141 km)

Leonardo Da Vinci (Fiumicino) International Airport
Large airport - 89 mi (144 km)

Pisa / San Giusto - Galileo Galilei International Airport
Large airport - 120 mi (193 km)

Bologna / Borgo Panigale Airport
Large airport - 121 mi (196 km)