Santa Maria degli Angeli Church
A sacred basilica in Assisi, Italy, enclosing the Porziuncola, the birthplace of the Franciscan order. A site of deep spiritual significance and archi...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Santa Maria degli Angeli Church
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A sacred basilica in Assisi, Italy, enclosing the Porziuncola, the birthplace of the Franciscan order. A site of deep spiritual significance and architectural beauty.
"Bellisima church decorated down to the smallest detail, completely restored."
Use Your Imagination
Some parts may require imagination to fully appreciate their historical context. Embrace the stories!
Check Opening Hours
Thanks to dedicated individuals, the church is often open daily. Confirm hours to avoid disappointment.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Porziuncola
Inside the Basilica
The humble 9th-century chapel where St. Francis founded the Franciscan order. A deeply sacred space.
Majolica Flooring
Main Nave
Beautifully preserved majolica flooring adds vibrant color and historical charm to the church's interior.
Restored Mechanical Organ
Near the Altar
A stunning 18th-century mechanical organ, recently restored, with a polychrome case and intricate details.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for the Best Experience
Understanding the Basilica's Significance
Appreciating this history enhances the visit. For those interested in Padre Pio, another church of the same name in Pietrelcina is where he said his first masses.Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Use Your Imagination
Some parts may require imagination to fully appreciate their historical context. Embrace the stories!
Check Opening Hours
Thanks to dedicated individuals, the church is often open daily. Confirm hours to avoid disappointment.
Explore the Details
Admire the intricate majolica flooring and baroque papier-mâché jewels. Bellisima!
Franciscan Significance
Understand the importance of the Porziuncola, the birthplace of the Franciscan order.
Tips
from all over the internet
Use Your Imagination
Some parts may require imagination to fully appreciate their historical context. Embrace the stories!
Check Opening Hours
Thanks to dedicated individuals, the church is often open daily. Confirm hours to avoid disappointment.
Explore the Details
Admire the intricate majolica flooring and baroque papier-mâché jewels. Bellisima!
Franciscan Significance
Understand the importance of the Porziuncola, the birthplace of the Franciscan order.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors often praise the Basilica of Santa Maria degli Angeli for its profound spiritual significance, particularly the sacred Porziuncola where St. Francis founded his order. The beautiful majolica flooring and the recently restored 18th-century organ are frequently mentioned highlights. Some reviewers note that appreciating the historical context requires imagination, and confirm that the church is generally kept open daily thanks to dedicated individuals.
"Small Catholic place"
B. S. T.
"I live just in front of it, there is not much left of it..one need to use his imagination..:)"
raul per raul
"Also called,
Fishermen's..."
Alessio Salvatore Cuvato
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Basilica of Santa Maria degli Angeli is located in Assisi, Italy. It's situated in the plain at the foot of the hill of Assisi. If arriving by public transport, you can take a bus or train to Assisi and then a local bus or taxi to the basilica. For those driving, parking is available nearby.
There are multiple churches named Santa Maria degli Angeli. The most prominent ones are in Assisi (housing the Porziuncola)
If you're exploring the region, consider it part of a larger Salento tour, as some TikToks mention Gallipoli and other coastal towns.+1 However, for the Assisi basilica, direct travel to Assisi is recommended, followed by local transport.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Generally, entry to the Basilica of Santa Maria degli Angeli in Assisi is free. However, it's always a good idea to check for any special exhibitions or events that might require a ticket.
The basilica is often open daily, thanks to dedicated caretakers. It's advisable to confirm the exact opening hours before your visit, as they can vary.
The Porziuncola is located within the Basilica of Santa Maria degli Angeli and is typically accessible with general entry, which is usually free.
🎫 ⛪ Onsite Experience
This basilica is incredibly significant as it encloses the Porziuncola, the small chapel where St. Francis founded the Franciscan order in the 9th century. It's a major pilgrimage site for Franciscans worldwide.
Don't miss the Porziuncola, the beautiful majolica flooring, and the recently restored 18th-century mechanical organ. The church also contains baroque papier-mâché jewels.
As a place of worship, modest dress is recommended. Shoulders and knees should be covered out of respect for the religious nature of the site.
Photography policies can vary. It's best to look for signage or ask a church attendant if photography is permitted, especially if flash is involved.
The Roselo is a small rose garden located outside the Basilica of Santa Maria degli Angeli in Assisi, associated with a miracle of Saint Francis combating impure thoughts.
📸 📸 Photography
The interior offers stunning architectural details, including the majolica flooring and the sacred Porziuncola. The exterior also provides a grand view of the basilica. Consider visiting during golden hour for beautiful light.
While generally allowed, it's always respectful to check for specific signage or ask permission before taking photos, especially if using flash or tripods, to avoid disturbing worshippers.
Visitors often capture the grandeur of the basilica's architecture, the intricate details of the flooring, and the serene atmosphere. The historical significance of the Porziuncola is also a popular subject.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
can be engaging. The sheer scale of the basilica might also impress them. Remember to keep the visit concise and focus on the most visually interesting aspects to maintain their interest.🙏 Pilgrims and Spiritual Seekers
Many find the atmosphere within the basilica, and particularly around the Porziuncola, to be deeply moving and conducive to prayer and reflection. The new app 'FrateApp' mentioned by the friars can also enhance the spiritual experience by offering guided tours and spiritual content. Consider attending a service if your visit aligns with the schedule.🏛️ History and Architecture Enthusiasts
For those visiting the Rome location, the fact that it's built within the ancient Baths of Diocletian and features design contributions from Michelangelo is a significant draw.+3 The restored mechanical organ from the 18th century is another highlight for its historical and artistic value.Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Sacred Porziuncola
Experiencing the Porziuncola is a key reason many pilgrims and tourists visit. The contrast between the simple chapel and the vast basilica surrounding it is striking. It serves as a tangible link to the life and teachings of Saint Francis, making it a deeply moving part of the visit for many. The atmosphere here is one of quiet reverence, encouraging contemplation and reflection on the Franciscan way of life.
While the Porziuncola is the main draw, the basilica itself is a masterpiece of Mannerist architecture, constructed between 1569 and 1679. It was designed to enclose and protect this sacred space, ensuring its preservation for future generations. The basilica's grandeur amplifies the spiritual weight of the Porziuncola, creating a unique and memorable experience for all who enter.
Architectural Marvels and Artistic Details
Another notable feature is the restored mechanical organ, dating back to around 1770. This impressive instrument, with its polychrome case featuring gold leaf and copper green, is a testament to the craftsmanship of its era. Its recent restoration ensures that its beautiful sound can still be appreciated, adding another layer to the sensory experience of visiting the basilica. The organ's intricate friezes and cherubic face further enhance its visual appeal.
Beyond these specific elements, the basilica showcases baroque papier-mâché jewels and paintings by Catalano, offering a rich tapestry of art and history. The overall design, while Mannerist, incorporates elements that speak to the enduring artistic traditions of Italy. For those interested in the Rome location, it's worth noting that the Basilica di Santa Maria degli Angeli e dei Martiri in Rome is also an architectural marvel, built within the ancient Baths of Diocletian and designed in part by Michelangelo.
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