Assisi: the Three Major Basilicas. St. Francis, St. Clare and Porziuncola Chapel

Assisi’s three major basilicas offer visitors a profound religious and cultural experience. The Basilica of St. Francis, a UNESCO World Heritage site, houses the saint’s remains and stunning frescoes. Nearby, the Basilica of St. Clare features her incorrupt body, drawing pilgrims from around the world. Equally captivating is the Porziuncola Chapel, the birthplace of the Franciscan order. Each site provides a glimpse into the lives and legacies of these revered saints, inviting travelers to delve deeper into Assisi’s spiritual legacy.

About Your Stay

• The Basilica of St. Clare, the final resting place of St. Clare, features breathtaking frescoes, stained glass, and the crucifix that spoke to St. Francis.
• The Porziuncola Chapel, gifted to St. Francis by the Benedictines, is the site where he founded the Franciscan order in 1209.
• The Basilica of St. Francis, a UNESCO-listed structure, houses the remains of St. Francis and showcases breathtaking frescoes depicting his life.
• Guided tours of Assisi’s three major basilicas offer an exceptional experience, with high praise for knowledgeable and friendly guides.
• Assisi is renowned for its rich religious history and cultural heritage, making it a popular pilgrimage site for visitors seeking spiritual connection.

Basilica of St. Clare

The Basilica of St. Clare is the final resting place of St. Clare, the founder of the Order of Poor Ladies.

Visitors can admire the breathtaking frescoes and stained glass windows that adorn the interior. The basilica’s most prized possession is the crucifix that spoke to St. Francis, inspiring him to devote his life to the poor.

Pilgrims also come to venerate St. Clare’s incorrupt body, displayed in a glass reliquary.

Despite its religious significance, the basilica maintains an air of tranquility, offering a peaceful respite from the bustling streets of Assisi.

Porziuncola Chapel

Located just outside the walls of Assisi, the Porziuncola Chapel holds immense significance as the humble place where St. Francis founded the Franciscan order in 1209.

This small church, nested within the Basilica of St. Mary of the Angels, was gifted to St. Francis by the Benedictines. It’s where he received his calling and gathered his first followers.

Today, the chapel is a popular pilgrimage site, featuring stunning frescoes and artifacts reflecting St. Francis’ life.

Visitors can explore the chapel’s simplistic beauty and soak in the spiritual atmosphere that inspired the Poverello of Assisi.

Basilica of St. Francis

Towering above the charming town of Assisi, the UNESCO-listed Basilica of St. Francis is the crown jewel of this historic city.

The massive, stunning structure houses the remains of the revered saint and features breathtaking frescoes depicting the life of Jesus and St. Francis.

Visitors can explore the upper and lower churches, each offering unique architectural and artistic treasures.

While guided tours are restricted on Sundays and holidays, the exterior and surrounding grounds remain open, allowing travelers to soak in the serene atmosphere and learn about the basilica’s significance.

With its timeless beauty and spiritual significance, the Basilica of St. Francis is a must-see for any visitor to Assisi.

Experience and Reviews

Travelers consistently rave about the exceptional experience offered by this guided tour of Assisi’s three major basilicas.

With a maximum group size of 15, the private tour allows for a personalized pace and itinerary tailored to participants’ interests. Guides like Alex, Marica, and Werner earn high praise for their extensive knowledge, friendly demeanor, and ability to bring the lives of St. Clare and St. Francis to life through engaging storytelling.

The tour’s 5.0 rating across 18 reviews underscores its value, with 100% of travelers recommending the experience. Visitors appreciate the seamless logistics, including round-trip transfers and included entry tickets.

Questions About Your Stay

How Much Time Is Required to Complete the Tour?

The tour typically takes 3-4 hours to complete, allowing ample time to explore the key basilicas and chapels at a comfortable pace. The duration may vary depending on the group’s interests and the guide’s ability to tailor the experience.

Is Storage for Personal Belongings Available During the Tour?

The tour doesn’t provide storage for personal belongings. Travelers are advised to keep any valuables with them during the visit. There are no dedicated storage facilities available at the tour sites.

Are Audio Guides Provided for Self-Guided Exploration?

No, the tour doesn’t provide audio guides. The private guided tour allows you to explore the basilicas with an official guide who provides insights and commentary throughout the experience.

Can the Tour Be Customized for Private Groups?

Yes, the tour can be customized for private groups. The private tour allows visitors to set the pace and itinerary to match their interests, providing a personalized experience exploring Assisi’s three major basilicas.

Are Discounts Available for Seniors or Students?

The tour doesn’t explicitly offer discounts for seniors or students, but the private nature of the experience allows for some flexibility. Visitors should inquire about any potential discounts when booking the tour.

Final Verdict On This Stay

Assisi’s three major basilicas offer unparalleled insights into the lives and legacies of St. Francis, St. Clare, and the Franciscan order. From the Basilica of St. Francis’ stunning frescoes to the Porziuncola Chapel’s historical significance, each site invites visitors to enjoy the spiritual heritage of this revered Italian city. Whether seeking enlightenment or simply appreciating architectural beauty, these basilicas provide an unforgettable experience.