Basilica of St Francis, Upper Church
On Gingerguide's self-guided Assisi & Umbria audio tour, Basilica of St Francis, Upper Church is a stop worth about ~60 min. Stand in front of it, press play for a short narrated story, and put any follow-up question to the built-in AI guide.
- Type religious
- Suggested visit ~60 min
- Assisi & Umbria Assisi & Umbria guide
About Basilica of St Francis, Upper Church
The Upper Church of the Basilica of St Francis in Assisi, a Gothic hall of light completed in 1253, with twenty-eight frescoes of the life of the saint traditionally attributed to Giotto.
The basilica was begun in 1228, two years after the death of Francis, and the Upper Church was completed in 1253. Its walls carry a cycle of 28 scenes of his life, traditionally attributed to Giotto, though scholars still debate who painted them. Part of the vault fell in the earthquake of 1997.
Entry is free for individuals. Sightseeing pauses during Mass. Dress modestly, with shoulders and knees covered, keep silent, and expect photography to be forbidden inside. Hours change with the season; check before you go.
Did you know? The Basilica of St Francis in Assisi was begun in 1228, the day after Francis was declared a saint, and its Upper Church was completed in 1253.
How much time do you need at Basilica of St Francis, Upper Church?
Around ~60 min works well for Basilica of St Francis, Upper Church — time to look properly and listen to its story on the spot. Linger if you like; nothing on a self-guided walk is on a clock.
Should you stop at Basilica of St Francis, Upper Church?
Yes — Basilica of St Francis, Upper Church made the cut as one of 13 places the Gingerguide team researched and narrated across Assisi & Umbria. The story tells you why it is worth the stop, and the AI guide fills in anything you still wonder.
Nearby stops in Assisi & Umbria
Day 1 of the Assisi & Umbria in 2 days itinerary →
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Hear the story of Basilica of St Francis, Upper Church
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