The Story:

The Basilica of Saint Francis of Assisi or “Basilica di San Francesco d’Assisi” is a Papal minor basilica located in Assisi, in the Umbria region in Italy. It is one of the most important, and most visited Catholic Pilgrimage destinations in Italy. The breathtaking basilica is built into the side of a hill and includes two Churches referred to as the Upper Church and the Lower Church and the “Sacro Convento” which is the Franciscan friary. The Lower church is a crypt containing the tombs of Saint Francis, to whom the Church is dedicated. St. Francis founded the Franciscan Order and the Basilica is officially recognized as the mother church for the Roman Catholic Order of Friars. After St. Francis died in 1226, Pope Gregory IX Canonized him on July 16, 1228 and placed the foundation stone the very next day to begin construction on the Basilica.

St. Francis was born in and died in Assisi. In addition to the Franciscan Order, St. Francis is also credited with founding the Order of Saint Clare, the Third Order of Saint Francis and the Custody of the Holy Land. His known for dedicating his life to imitating the life of Jesus, serving the poor, and taking a vow of poverty himself. He is the Patron Saint of Italy, animals and the environment. He is also the inspiration for our Holy Father Pope Francis, and the reason for his Papal name. He is also credited for the idea of live Nativity scenes. In 1223 his stigmata appeared after Seraphic angels came to him two years before his death.

Address: Piazza Inferiore di S. Francesco, 2, 06081 Assisi PG, Italy

Phone: +39 075 819001

Accommodations: There are many 4 and 5 star hotels in Assisi.