Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi
Built from 1228 St. Francis of Assisi Feast, October 4
The burial place of St. Francis of Assisi and one of the great pilgrimage churches of Catholic history.
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The Story
The Papal Basilica of Saint Francis of Assisi, located in Assisi in the Italian region of Umbria, is one of the Catholic Church’s most important pilgrimage destinations. Built to honor Saint Francis of Assisi and preserve his remains, the basilica is both the spiritual center of the Franciscan family and one of the most influential monuments of medieval Christian art and architecture. Saint Francis was born in Assisi around 1181 or 1182 into the prosperous family of Pietro di Bernardone, a cloth merchant. As a young man, Francis enjoyed a comfortable and socially ambitious life and dreamed of military glory. His experience of war, imprisonment, illness and prayer gradually changed his priorities and led him to seek God’s purpose for his life. An important stage in his conversion occurred as he prayed before the crucifix in the neglected church of San Damiano. Francis believed he heard Christ tell him to repair his Church. He initially responded by rebuilding abandoned chapels, but eventually understood the command as a broader call to renew the Church through faithful living of the Gospel. He renounced his family’s wealth, embraced a life of poverty and began serving people who were poor, sick or excluded, particularly those suffering from leprosy. Other men were drawn to his example, and Francis formed a community devoted to following Jesus through poverty, chastity, obedience, prayer, preaching and service. Pope Innocent III gave initial approval to the Franciscan way of life in 1209, and Pope Honorius III formally confirmed the Franciscan Rule in 1223. Francis also worked with Saint Clare of Assisi in the development of the community that became the Poor Clares, while a third Franciscan tradition allowed laypeople to follow Franciscan spirituality within family and professional life. Francis sought to imitate Christ with great simplicity and devotion. In 1223, he arranged the Christmas celebration at Greccio that became associated with the tradition of the living Nativity scene. He also traveled during the Crusades and was peacefully received by the Muslim Sultan al-Malik al-Kamil, an encounter remembered as an example of courageous dialogue and respect across religious divisions. In 1224, Francis reportedly received the stigmata, wounds corresponding to those of the crucified Christ. Francis was also known for seeing creation as a gift that leads humanity toward praise of its Creator. His Canticle of the Creatures, also called the Canticle of Brother Sun, praises God through the sun, moon, water, fire, earth and all creation. The work is among the earliest major poetic texts written in an Italian vernacular and expresses Francis’s belief that human beings and the created world belong to one family under God. Francis died near the small chapel of the Porziuncola on the evening of October 3, 1226, at approximately forty-four years of age. Pope Gregory IX canonized him less than two years later in 1228. His liturgical feast is celebrated on October 4, and he is honored as the founder of the Franciscan movement, a patron saint of Italy and an enduring witness to peace, humility, care for the poor and responsible care for creation. Pope Gregory IX commissioned the Basilica of Saint Francis as a special papal church in April 1228. Construction began shortly after Francis’s canonization, and his remains were solemnly transferred to the completed Lower Church in 1230. The Upper Church was completed and consecrated during the pontificate of Pope Innocent IV in 1253. The adjoining Sacro Convento was built to house the Franciscan friars responsible for the liturgical and pastoral care of the basilica and the saint’s tomb. The basilica is formed by two churches built one above the other. The Lower Church has a darker, more intimate atmosphere and combines Romanesque architecture with richly decorated chapels and frescoes. It leads to the crypt containing the tomb of Saint Francis, where his simple stone sarcophagus is surrounded by the remains of several of his earliest companions. The tomb remains the spiritual heart of the basilica and a place of silent prayer for pilgrims from around the world. The Upper Church is brighter and more spacious, with soaring Gothic architecture, stained-glass windows and extensive fresco cycles. The basilica contains works associated with some of the most important artists of medieval Italy, including Cimabue, Giotto, Pietro Lorenzetti and Simone Martini. Scenes from Scripture and the life of Saint Francis were intended not merely as decoration, but as visual teaching that helps pilgrims contemplate the Gospel and understand the saint’s life as an imitation of Christ. In 2000, the Basilica of Saint Francis, together with Assisi and several surrounding Franciscan sites, was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. UNESCO recognizes the basilica as an outstanding architectural complex and describes Assisi as a major center for the development of Italian and European art, Franciscan spirituality and the universal message of peace and fraternity. The basilica’s spiritual importance extends beyond its historic architecture and art. It preserves the memory of a man who believed that the Gospel should be lived concretely through simplicity, mercy, forgiveness, service and love of Christ. Pilgrims come to pray at Francis’s tomb, celebrate Mass, receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation and reflect on their own response to the Gospel. The Basilica of Saint Francis ultimately directs attention beyond Francis himself toward Jesus Christ, whom Francis sought to imitate throughout his life. Its message invites visitors to repair what is broken, care for those who are forgotten, seek peace rather than conflict, recognize creation as God’s gift and live with greater humility, joy and trust in God.
How to read this account
Church Recognition
The Basilica of St. Francis is a papal basilica placed under the special protection of the Holy See since its foundation by Pope Gregory IX in 1228, the same pope who canonized St. Francis that year. Together with other Franciscan sites of Assisi it was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2000, and St. Francis was declared a patron saint of Italy.
The tradition
St. Francis died in 1226 and was first buried in the church of San Giorgio in Assisi. In 1230 his body was moved into the new basilica and sealed deep beneath the high altar, out of sight of pilgrims, and over time the exact spot was forgotten. After earlier searches failed, workers found the stone tomb on the night of December 12, 1818.
Church judgment
Pope Gregory IX declared Francis a saint on July 16, 1228 and laid the basilica's first stone the next day. In 1820 Pope Pius VII confirmed that the remains found in 1818 were those of St. Francis and had a crypt carved from the rock so pilgrims could pray at the tomb. The church is a papal basilica, cared for by the Franciscan friars of the Sacro Convento.
Reported findings
With Pope Paul VI's approval, the relics were examined again in 1978 and sealed in a clear case to protect them. A check in 2015 found no significant change. From February 22 to March 22, 2026, for the 800th anniversary of his death, the remains were shown to the public for the first time.
Catholic teaching
Catholics do not worship saints or relics. They honor the saints as friends of God whose lives point to Christ and ask for their prayers, and the Church counts the veneration of relics among good forms of popular devotion (Catechism of the Catholic Church, 1674).
Catholic Teaching
The basilica embodies the Church's teaching on the communion of saints (CCC 946–962) and the veneration of the saints' remains (CCC 1674), while St. Francis's life points to the Gospel call to poverty, peace, and care for creation later echoed in Pope Francis's encyclical Laudato si'.
Go Deeper
Visit the basilica's official website at https://www.sanfrancescoassisi.org, and read the early lives of the saint by Thomas of Celano and St. Bonaventure, St. Francis's own Canticle of the Creatures, and CCC 946–962 on the communion of saints.
Useful before you go
Plan Your Visit
The Pilgrim’s Quick Card
- Ideal stay
- Half Day Allow 2-4 hours for the tomb, church, and prayer
- Best months
- Apr-Jun & Sep-Oct Comfortable weather and fewer peak-season crowds
- Nearest airport
- Perugia (PEG) Rome FCO offers more U.S. nonstop options
- Language & currency
- Italian · Euro (€) English availability varies; major shrines often assist
- Feast day
- October 4
- Accessibility
- Moderate Historic slopes, steps, or uneven paving may challenge
Plan the trip
How Long Should I Stay?
Half Day is a practical amount of time for Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi. Allow 2-4 hours for the tomb, church, and prayer.
- Minimum: Half Day for the principal shrine or church and personal prayer.
- Recommended: Half Day so you can include Mass, the main devotional focus, and time to explore without rushing.
- Extended stay: Add a second day for a slower pace and nearby sacred sites.
Pilgrim Tip: Leave at least one unscheduled block for quiet prayer; pilgrimage sites often become most meaningful after the checklist is finished.
Best Time to Visit
Best Overall
Apr-Jun & Sep-Oct
Comfortable weather and fewer peak-season crowds.
Peak Periods
Major feast days, school holidays, summer weekends, and organized diocesan pilgrimages can bring larger crowds. Book lodging and transportation earlier if your dates overlap a major celebration.
For a Quieter Pilgrimage
Choose a weekday outside the busiest holiday period and arrive early in the day.
Feast Day
October 4 can be a particularly meaningful time to visit, but expect larger crowds and special schedules.
Pilgrim Tip: Always check the shrine calendar before booking; the most spiritually rich dates are often also the busiest.
Getting There From the United States
Best Gateway: Perugia (PEG)
For most pilgrims traveling from the United States, Perugia (PEG) is the most practical arrival point. Rome FCO offers more U.S. nonstop options.
From the airport, continue toward Assisi by the most practical combination of rail, bus, rental car, taxi, or pre-arranged transfer. For remote shrines, a private transfer or rental car is often simpler than piecing together local connections.
Typical U.S. Routing
United States -> Perugia (PEG) -> Assisi -> Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi
Our recommendation: Compare total travel time, not airfare alone. A slightly more expensive flight that removes a long ground transfer can make a pilgrimage much easier.
On the ground
Getting Around
You generally do not need a car once you are near Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi. The sacred site and its immediate historic center can usually be explored on foot, with local buses or taxis available for longer transfers.
A rental car is most useful if this stop is part of a wider regional pilgrimage.
Good to Know: Historic districts may restrict traffic or have limited parking, so check your lodging's arrival instructions in advance.
Where to Stay
Choose lodging in the most walkable part of Assisi, ideally within a short walk or simple transit ride of Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi. That makes it easier to attend Mass and return for prayer without losing time in traffic.
Best For Pilgrims
- Historic-center lodging near the church or shrine
- Religious guesthouses when available
- Hotels near a major transit stop
- Accessible lodging if your group has mobility needs
Pilgrim Tip: Check the actual walking route, not just the map distance; old cities can include steep streets, stairs, or cobblestones.
Accessibility
The principal worship areas at Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi can usually be reached, but the surrounding pilgrimage route may include hills, steps, cobblestones, or uneven paving. Accessible entrances and routes vary by building.
Pilgrim Tip: Confirm elevator, ramp, and restroom access before booking if someone in your group has limited mobility.
What to do
Most Important Things to Do
Venerate the Saint or Relics
The Papal Basilica holds the tomb of St. Francis in its crypt; the upper and lower churches are famed for their frescoes.
Allow: 30-60 minutes for prayer before moving through the rest of the site.
Attend Mass
If Mass is offered during your visit, make it the center of the pilgrimage rather than an add-on. Check the official shrine or parish schedule shortly before traveling.
Understand the Devotion
Read a short life of the saint before arriving, then pray for the grace to imitate the virtue most associated with that saint.
Explore the Church and Grounds
Look for the principal chapel, altar, crypt, museum, gardens, historic rooms, or pilgrimage route connected with the site. Allow another 45-90 minutes where available.
Pilgrim Tip: Arrive early or stay later than large tour groups when possible; the atmosphere is often much quieter.
Suggested Pilgrimage Itinerary
Half-Day Pilgrimage
- Begin at Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi and spend time in quiet prayer.
- Attend Mass if the schedule aligns with your visit.
- Visit the principal shrine, tomb, relic, apparition site, or historic chapel.
- Go to Confession when available.
- Finish with another short period of prayer before leaving.
Have more time? Add the Basilica of St. Francis, St. Clare, and the Porziuncola.
Mass, Confession & Prayer
When the church is active, Mass is the best way to place the saint's witness within the life of the Church. Confession, Adoration, and devotions vary by community.
Use the current schedule provided by the shrine, parish, diocese, or religious community shortly before visiting.
Pilgrim Tip: Avoid building your itinerary around an old fixed Mass time. Liturgical schedules can change seasonally and on feast days.
Practical
What to Bring
Pilgrimage Essentials
- Rosary
- Small Bible or prayer book
- Written prayer intentions
- Journal and pen
- Reusable water bottle
Practical Items
- Sturdy shoes with good traction
- Light layers for elevation changes
- Small backpack
- Portable phone charger
- Modest clothing for churches
- Payment card plus a small amount of Euro (€)
Pilgrim Tip: Pack lightly enough that you can spend the day walking and praying without managing unnecessary gear.
Before You Go
Before leaving:
- ✓ Check current opening hours
- ✓ Check Mass and Confession information
- ✓ Write down your prayer intentions
- ✓ Confirm airport and ground transportation
- ✓ Check the weather
- ✓ Pack comfortable walking shoes
- ✓ Confirm accessibility needs in advance
- ✓ Carry appropriate church clothing
- ✓ Leave room for quiet prayer
Most Important: Do not experience Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi only as a historic attraction. Make time for prayer, the sacraments when available, and the devotion or biblical event that gives the place its meaning.
Additional Information
The Papal Basilica holds the tomb of St. Francis in its crypt; the upper and lower churches are famed for their frescoes.
Official Information
Check the shrine, parish, diocese, or custodian's official website for current opening hours, liturgies, closures, and pilgrimage notices.
Currency
Italy uses Euro (€). Carry a payment card plus a small amount of local cash for offerings, small cafés, or local transport.
Local Language
Italian is the principal language for this destination. English availability varies, but major international shrines often have multilingual staff or printed material.
Religious Etiquette
Dress respectfully, silence phones during prayer and Mass, avoid photographing worshippers at close range, and follow any local rules around relics, tombs, confessionals, or restricted chapels.
Pilgrim travel note: Mass times, opening hours, costs, accessibility, and local conditions can change. Please confirm important details directly with the shrine and your providers before you travel. Travel Disclaimer
Where to stay
Places to stay and the walk to Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi
The closest place to stay isn’t always the easiest walk. Pick one to see its walk, the slope, and whether the way is step-free.
Select a place to stay to see its walk.
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Hotel Windsor Savoia Hotel 6 min walk · 0.2 mi Step-free route Hotel on Viale Marconi beside Porta San Francesco, a few minutes' walk from the Basilica. Lift and adapted rooms.Check availability
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Hotel San Francesco Hotel 4 min walk · 0.1 mi Step-free: unknown On Via San Francesco, facing the Basilica in the pedestrian old town.Check availability
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Giotto Hotel & Spa Hotel 8 min walk · 0.3 mi Step-free: unknown Hotel on Via Fontebella with views over the valley, about 200 m from the Basilica. Some suites are reached only by stairs.Check availability
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Cittadella Ospitalità (Pro Civitate Christiana) Religious house / guesthouse 12 min walk · 0.4 mi Step-free: unknown Guest house of a Catholic lay association on Via degli Ancajani. Lift and adapted rooms in the main building; the annex is reached by stairs.
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St. Anthony's Guest House Religious house / guesthouse 27 min walk · 1.0 mi Step-free: unknown Run by the Franciscan Sisters of the Atonement, between St. Clare and the Cathedral. Book by email. Closed mid-November to February.Check availability
Travel referral notice: Some travel links on this page may earn Sites of Grace a commission, at no extra cost to you. Map distances and routes are approximate; confirm location, accessibility, availability, rates, and booking terms with the provider. Affiliate Disclosure · Travel Disclaimer
Travel with a group
Prefer to travel with a group?
No guided pilgrimages that include Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi are listed yet. Many parishes and dioceses organize their own trips, so ask at yours.
Continue your pilgrimage
Sacred places nearby
- Basilica of St. Clare (Tomb of St. Clare) The tomb of St. Clare, foundress of the Poor Clares, whose incorrupt body is venerated. <1 mi
- Shrine of St. Carlo Acutis (Assisi) The remains of St. Carlo Acutis rest in the Church of Santa Maria Maggiore at the Sanctuary of Spogliazione i… <1 mi
- Basilica of St. Mary of the Angels (Porziuncola) Encloses the Porziuncola, the little chapel at the heart of the Franciscan movement. 2 mi
- Eucharistic Miracle of Cascia A consecrated host carried carelessly in a breviary was found to have bled onto the page, still preserved tod… 32 mi
- Basilica of St. Rita (Tomb of St. Rita) The tomb of St. Rita, patroness of impossible causes, whose incorrupt body is venerated. 32 mi
- Eucharistic Miracle of Bolsena-Orvieto A host was said to bleed during Mass at Bolsena, strengthening a doubting priest's faith and helping inspire … 35 mi
Before you travel
Prepare spiritually
A prayer for your pilgrimage
Most High, glorious God, enlighten the darkness of my heart. Give me right faith, sure hope and perfect charity. Fill me with understanding and knowledge, that I may fulfill your command. Amen.
The Prayer before the Crucifix, which Franciscan tradition holds St. Francis prayed before the San Damiano cross. English translations vary slightly.
Read before you go
- Galatians 6:14–17: Paul boasts only in the cross and bears the marks of Jesus, words that fit Francis and his stigmata.
- Matthew 11:25–30: read on his feast day, October 4. God reveals himself to the little ones.
- Matthew 10:7–10: Jesus sends the disciples out with no money or extra clothes, a call Francis took literally.
- Matthew 19:21: "Go, sell what you have and give to the poor," a passage that shaped the first friars.
- Psalm 148: all creation praises the Lord, an echo of Francis's Canticle of the Creatures.
Trip readiness
Check travel information for Assisi & Umbria for entry requirements and advisories before you book, and again before you fly.
Information & sources
Mass times, admission and travel requirements change. Confirm them with the official source before you visit.
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