History and teachings
The basilica is the mother church of the Roman Catholic Order of Friars Minor Conventual in Assisi, and one of the most important Christian pilgrimage sites in Italy. Pilgrims have been coming to Assisi, Italy since the 13th century to venerate St. Francis. It has been a UNESCO World Heritage site since 2000.

Cross-cultural dimensions
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. The interior of the upper church is an important early example of the Gothic style in Italy. The upper and lower churches are decorated with frescoes by numerous late medieval painters from the Roman era and Tuscan schools. The range and quality of the works gives the basilica a unique importance to demonstrate the development of Italian art of this period.

Useful information:
recommended for all; general; doesn’t require prior knowledge; accessible; affordable

Located in Umbria, a region of central Italy. Accessible by foot, by car and by train. Accesible for disabled (the building is equipped with an elevator). Tour visits in Italian and audio-guide available. Safety measures covered. Admission for individual visitors is free; no ticket is required. Reservations are required for tours of groups, which cost 2 euros per person. Virtual tour available.