Basilica of Santa Maria degli Angeli travel guide

The Basilica of Santa Maria degli Angeli traces its roots back to the 16th century, commissioned by Pope Pius V in 1569. The church is famously known for being the site where St. Francis of Assisi died in 1226.

The original design of the basilica, a grand Renaissance structure, was developed by the architect Galeazzo Alessi. However, after a devastating earthquake in 1832, most of the basilica was destroyed, leaving only the Porziuncola, the small chapel where St. Francis received his spiritual calling.

The basilica was rebuilt in the late 19th century, preserving the Porziuncola within its structure. Today, it stands as one of the largest Christian sanctuaries, attracting pilgrims from around the world. It is also home to the Rose Garden and the cell where St. Francis died, making it an essential destination for those interested in Christian history.

One of the distinctive features of the Basilica of Santa Maria degli Angeli is its sheer size. It is the seventh largest Christian church, which is impressive considering it was built to enclose a small chapel, the Porziuncola. This chapel, another unique aspect, is where St. Francis of Assisi, the founder of the Franciscan order, is said to have received his call to poverty. Within the church, you'll also find the Transito, the small room where St. Francis died. Another striking aspect is the Rose Garden and the Rosebush, which according to legend, sprang up where St. Francis threw burning coals. The Basilica also houses a significant collection of art, including frescoes by prominent artists of the 17th and 18th centuries. The grandiose dome, designed by Luigi Vanvitelli, adds a touch of majesty to the Basilica, making it a must-visit destination for its architectural and historical significance.

The iconic Basilica of Santa Maria degli Angeli, situated at Piazza Porziuncola, 1, 06081 Santa Maria degli Angeli PG, Italy, stands as a must-visit landmark in Santa Maria degli Angeli. Its location within the vibrant Assisi offers visitors a seamless connection to the charming landscapes and rich culture of Italy.

More than just a backdrop of stunning scenery, Santa Maria degli Angeli, as a village, is a treasure trove of cultural experiences and modern conveniences. Its unique blend of history and contemporary charm ensures there’s something for every traveler to enjoy.

Basilica of Santa Maria degli Angeli shines in all seasons, each offering unique sights and experiences. Get additional tips and inspiration to make the most of your visit to this village.

Getting to Basilica of Santa Maria degli Angeli is possible with a variety of transportation options, but planning ahead is essential to ensure a smooth journey in Santa Maria degli Angeli, Italy.

If you're arriving by air , you'll arrive at San Francesco d Assisi Airport, which is approximately 4.5 miles (7.2 km) from the village center. From there, you can then plan your onward journey with a taxi, shuttle, or private transfer for a direct route to Basilica of Santa Maria degli Angeli.

If you're already in Santa Maria degli Angeli, the journey to Basilica of Santa Maria degli Angeli is an adventure in itself. Located 0.1 miles (0.2 km) from central Santa Maria degli Angeli, you can choose from local buses, taxis, or guided tours to reach it. Basilica of Santa Maria degli Angeli is situated at Piazza Porziuncola, 1, 06081 Santa Maria degli Angeli PG, Italy, and is well worth the trip!

Prepare for an unforgettable journey of discovery in Italy. With your travel plans set, you're ready to embark on a memorable experience at Basilica of Santa Maria degli Angeli.

The best time to explore Basilica of Santa Maria degli Angeli is during the spring or autumn seasons. These periods offer pleasant weather, with temperatures that make it comfortable to spend time both inside and outside the Basilica. The months of April, May, September, and October are particularly recommended. During these months, the Basilica is less crowded, allowing you to enjoy the architectural grandeur and spiritual atmosphere without interruption. Furthermore, visiting in October coincides with the Feast of St. Francis (4th October), a significant event in Santa Maria degli Angeli. This celebration breathes new life into the Basilica with special masses, religious processions, and numerous local festivities. To maximize your experience, consider timing your visit on a weekday morning, when the Basilica is typically quieter. However, keep in mind that the Basilica may close for a few hours in the afternoon, so plan your visit accordingly.

As Basilica of Santa Maria degli Angeli is located in an area that can be tricky to navigate without proper planning, these packages handle logistics by organizing transportation, accommodations, and activities.

Delve deeper and discover the top travel plans for exploring Basilica of Santa Maria degli Angeli in Italy.

When preparing for your visit to Basilica of Santa Maria degli Angeli, it's essential to find the perfect place to stay. Discover your perfect accommodation near Basilica of Santa Maria degli Angeli in this section, with options for all travel types—carefully selected from the biggest selection of hotels and places to stay in Santa Maria degli Angeli.

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Whether you’re visiting for a brief stop or planning to spend more time exploring, this attraction adds something special to your trip.

Check out the full list of top attractions in Santa Maria degli Angeli below to discover even more incredible places to visit.