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Church of San Francesco

4.7
·786 reviews·Treviso, Italy

A stunning Romanesque-Gothic church in Treviso, rich with 13th-century history, impressive frescoes, and the tombs of notable figures.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Avoid crowds, find peace

CrowdLow
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Fachada principal

Church of San Francesco

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Avoid crowds, find peace

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A stunning Romanesque-Gothic church in Treviso, rich with 13th-century history, impressive frescoes, and the tombs of notable figures. Reddit

4.7
(786 reviews)

"One of the most beautiful churches I have ever seen!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🤫 Seek Quiet Moments

Visit early on weekdays for a peaceful experience. :church:

🖼️ Admire the Artistry

Don't miss the frescoes and tombs; they are artistic and historical treasures. :frame_photo:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Gigantic St. Christopher Fresco

Gigantic St. Christopher Fresco

Left wall

A striking Romanesque-Byzantine artwork from the late 13th century, this massive fresco is a powerful visual anchor within the church.

Reddit
Tombs of Notable Figures

Tombs of Notable Figures

Interior

Pay respects at the final resting places of Pietro Alighieri (son of Dante) and Francesca Petrarca (daughter of Petrarch).

Reddit
Madonna with Child and Seven Saints Fresco

Madonna with Child and Seven Saints Fresco

Giacomelli Chapel (first on left)

A masterpiece by Tommaso da Modena, this 1350 fresco exemplifies refined Gothic style and is a key artistic highlight.

Reddit
Four Evangelists Frescoes

Four Evangelists Frescoes

Vault of the main chapel

These 14th-century Venetian-Emilian school works, likely by a pupil of Tommaso da Modena, adorn the apse vault.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit for Tranquility

To experience the Church of San Francesco's serene beauty without the crowds, aim for weekday mornings. Many visitors arrive later in the day, so an early start ensures a more peaceful exploration of its Romanesque-Gothic architecture and significant artworks. Reddit

Understanding Its Rich History

Founded by Franciscans in the 13th century, this church has a fascinating past, including periods of military use. Its restoration in 1928 brought back its artistic treasures, making it a vital historical site. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Avoid crowds, find peace
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoons
Why
More visitors, lively atmosphere
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Two Franciscan Friars walk into a baseball stadium… and stumble into incredible seats. #BleacherBrothers @thewhiskeypriest_ofm
@caseyofm
51.3K likes • 515.7K views

🤫 Seek Quiet Moments

Visit early on weekdays for a peaceful experience. Reddit :church:

🖼️ Admire the Artistry

Don't miss the frescoes and tombs; they are artistic and historical treasures. Reddit :frame_photo:

We’re at the Church of San Francesco a Ripa, and there is so much to discover here. This is one of the places we visit on our Christmas pilgrimage! Join us in December in Italy— link in bio. #italy #catholic #pilgrimages
insidethevaticanpilgrimages
469 likes • 15.1K views
🇬🇧 In the Church of San Francesco a Ripa you can find one of Bernini’s most touching masterpieces: the statue of Ludovica Albertoni. 🙏 Depicted in her final moments of ecstasy and devotion, she seems almost alive, with every detail of her expression and drapery carved in marble. A moving encounter with Baroque art in Rome. 🇮🇹 Nella chiesa di San Francesco a Ripa si trova una delle opere più commo...
tony_rome_tours
127 likes • 2.5K views

🚶 Explore the Cloister

The quiet paradise court offers a moment of reflection. Reddit :park:

🎶 Listen for Music

Sometimes priests sing, creating a beautiful atmosphere. Instagram :musical_note:

Did you know this song? 🎤 @theromancantor # Today I share with you a truly special moment: performing “Dolce è Sentire” together during the Solemnity of Saint Francis at the Church of San Francesco a Ripa in Rome, the very place where Saint Francis himself stayed when he came to seek approval for his Rule. 🌿 This song is part of the soundtrack of “Fratello Sole, Sorella Luna” (1972), directed b...
fromtheapse
1.1K likes • 14.2K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🤫 Seek Quiet Moments

Visit early on weekdays for a peaceful experience. Reddit :church:

🖼️ Admire the Artistry

Don't miss the frescoes and tombs; they are artistic and historical treasures. Reddit :frame_photo:

🚶 Explore the Cloister

The quiet paradise court offers a moment of reflection. Reddit :park:

🎶 Listen for Music

Sometimes priests sing, creating a beautiful atmosphere. Instagram :musical_note:

What Travellers Say

4.7
(786 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Church of San Francesco for its beautiful Romanesque-Gothic architecture and deeply interesting history. Many highlight the impressive frescoes and the quiet, contemplative atmosphere of its cloister as particularly memorable aspects of their visit. It's considered a must-see in Treviso for its artistic and historical significance. Reddit

"A beautiful church built in the Romanesque-Gothic style. Impressive both outside and inside. Her history is extremely interesting. In the early years of the thirteenth century the municipality of Treviso issued statutes that allowed the mendicant orders to settle inside the walls. A small group of Friars Minor, sent by Francis of Assisi himself, thus arrived in Treviso in 1216, and took up their headquarters in the north-east of the city center, in the area beyond the Cagnan Grande. In this area, which according to tradition was assigned to them by the powerful Da Camino family, the Franciscans built a simple monastery and a chapel dedicated to the Virgin Mary. The community soon became numerous and in 1231 the church and convent began to be built. In 1270 the buildings were completed. An important role in the endowment of the convent was played by Gherardo da Camino, an Italian leader and feudal lord. He is commonly considered the main exponent of the da Camino family. Being a church of regulars, in 1797 the church was occupied by the French and the conventual minor friars were expelled. In 1806 the convent was suppressed by the laws of the Kingdom of Italy. The church was thus used for military purposes and as a stable, while the two large cloisters were demolished. Only in 1928, after a restoration, was it reopened. The interior of the church is extremely beautiful in simplicity and is full of significant works by great masters of painting. On the left wall, there is a gigantic fresco depicting St. Christopher, a Romanesque-Byzantine work of the late thirteenth century. On the sails of the vault of the main chapel of the apse are the Four Evangelists, the Stigmata of St. Francis, a Madonna with Child and Adam, from the fourteenth-century Venetian-Emilian school, probably the work of a pupil of Tommaso da Modena. In the first chapel on the left (Giacomelli chapel) there is a work by Tommaso da Modena, the fresco of the Madonna with Child and seven saints (1350), a true artistic masterpiece of the church and testimony of the refined Gothic style of the Emilian master then active in city. In the second chapel on the left there is a fresco by the Maestro di Feltro, Madonna and four saints from 1351. The church houses the tombs of some famous people: Pietro Alighieri and Francesca Petrarca the most important. The first, son of Dante Alighieri, was a judge, poet and commentator residing in Verona who died in Treviso during a stay in 1364. The second, daughter of Francesco Petrarca, died in childbirth in 1384. From the church comes masterpice the „Sacred Conversation“ (1480) by Alvise Vivarini, and the „Meeting of Joachim and Anna with St. Louis IX and Santa Libera“ by Carpaccio today in the Gallerie dell'Accademia in Venice."

Asiyah Noemi Koso

"Beautiful place, you can spend a time in quiet paradise court."

David Cígler

"A must see in Treviso.
Here you can see the tomb of Petrarch's daughter."

Alex D

What People Like

Beautiful architecture
Interesting history
Impressive frescoes

What People Dislike

Some artworks relocated

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Church of San Francesco is located in the north-east of Treviso's city center, beyond the Cagnan Grande. It's easily accessible on foot from the main squares and is a pleasant walk from most accommodations in the historic center. Reddit

Parking in Treviso's historic center can be challenging. It's recommended to use public parking garages located just outside the ZTL (limited traffic zone) and walk to the church. Reddit

While the church is centrally located, local buses do serve the Treviso area. Check local bus schedules for routes that stop near the historic center. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to the Church of San Francesco is generally free, allowing visitors to admire its architecture and art. Donations are often appreciated to help with upkeep. Reddit

Opening hours can vary, but the church is typically open during daylight hours. It's advisable to check for any specific closures or event schedules before your visit. Reddit

While the main church is usually free, any special exhibitions or specific areas might have an admission fee. It's best to inquire on-site if you're interested in these. Reddit

Yes, the cloister, often described as a 'quiet paradise court,' is usually accessible and offers a peaceful space for reflection. Reddit

🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience

Key artworks include the gigantic St. Christopher fresco on the left wall, the Four Evangelists on the apse vault, and Tommaso da Modena's 'Madonna with Child and Seven Saints' in the Giacomelli Chapel. Reddit

Indeed, the church houses the tombs of Pietro Alighieri, son of Dante Alighieri, and Francesca Petrarca, daughter of Petrarch. Reddit

The church is a beautiful example of the Romanesque-Gothic style, showcasing impressive architecture both inside and out. Reddit

Absolutely. Many visitors describe it as a place of 'quiet paradise' and appreciate its serene atmosphere, especially if visited during off-peak hours. Reddit

Photography is generally permitted for personal use, but it's always respectful to check for any posted restrictions, especially during services. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

No, there are no dining facilities within the church itself. However, the surrounding historic center of Treviso offers numerous trattorias, cafes, and restaurants. Reddit

You'll find traditional Italian cuisine, with a focus on regional Veneto specialties. Look for local pasta dishes, seafood, and regional wines. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Focus on the grand St. Christopher fresco, the intricate details of the tombs, and the artistic frescoes in the chapels. The cloister also offers lovely photographic opportunities. InstagramReddit

Drone usage is typically restricted in historic city centers and around religious sites. It's highly unlikely to be permitted and could lead to penalties. Instagram

Morning light can be beautiful for capturing the interior details without harsh shadows. Consider the angle of light on the frescoes. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Church of San Francesco offers a unique educational opportunity for families. While the solemn atmosphere might require some guidance for younger children, the gigantic St. Christopher fresco is sure to capture their imagination. Reddit Discussing the stories behind the saints and the historical figures buried here can make history come alive. The peaceful cloister also provides a calm space for children to rest and reflect. Reddit

🏛️ History Buffs

For history enthusiasts, the Church of San Francesco is a must-visit. Delve into its 13th-century Franciscan origins, its role during periods of French occupation, and its eventual restoration. Reddit The presence of tombs of figures like Dante's son and Petrarch's daughter offers a direct connection to Italy's literary and historical past. Reddit The architectural evolution from Romanesque-Gothic styles also provides ample material for study. Reddit

🎨 Art Lovers

Art aficionados will find the Church of San Francesco a rewarding experience. The Romanesque-Byzantine fresco of St. Christopher is a powerful early work, while the 14th-century frescoes by Tommaso da Modena and his school showcase the beauty of Gothic art in the region. Reddit Even though some key paintings are now elsewhere, the church's historical significance as a patron of these masters is undeniable. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Artistic Masterpieces Within

The Church of San Francesco in Treviso is a treasure trove of significant artworks, spanning various periods and styles. Dominating the left wall is a gigantic fresco of St. Christopher, a remarkable Romanesque-Byzantine piece dating back to the late 13th century. Reddit The sails of the vault in the main chapel of the apse are adorned with depictions of the Four Evangelists and the Stigmata of St. Francis, attributed to the 14th-century Venetian-Emilian school, likely a student of Tommaso da Modena. Reddit

Further artistic gems include the Giacomelli Chapel, featuring Tommaso da Modena's exquisite fresco of the 'Madonna with Child and Seven Saints' (1350), a prime example of refined Gothic artistry. Reddit The adjacent chapel showcases a fresco by the Maestro di Feltro, 'Madonna and Four Saints' (1351). These works collectively offer a profound glimpse into the artistic heritage preserved within the church's walls. Reddit

A Storied and Resilient History

The history of the Church of San Francesco is as compelling as its art. Founded in 1216 by a small group of Friars Minor sent by Francis of Assisi himself, the church and monastery were built in the north-east of the city center, an area traditionally associated with the powerful Da Camino family. Reddit Construction of the church and convent began in 1231 and was completed by 1270, with significant contributions from figures like Gherardo da Camino. Reddit

However, the church's resilience was tested over centuries. In 1797, it was occupied by the French, leading to the expulsion of the friars and the suppression of the convent in 1806. The buildings were repurposed for military use, even serving as a stable, and its two large cloisters were demolished. Reddit It wasn't until 1928, after extensive restoration, that the church was reopened to the public, allowing its historical and artistic significance to be appreciated once more. Reddit

Notable Burials and Legacy

The Church of San Francesco serves as the final resting place for several notable individuals, adding another layer to its historical importance. Among the most significant are Pietro Alighieri, the son of the renowned poet Dante Alighieri, who was a judge, poet, and commentator and died in Treviso in 1364. Reddit Also interred here is Francesca Petrarca, the daughter of the celebrated poet Francesco Petrarca, who tragically passed away in childbirth in 1384. Reddit

While masterpieces like Alvise Vivarini's 'Sacred Conversation' and Carpaccio's 'Meeting of Joachim and Anna with St. Louis IX and Santa Libera' are now housed in other prestigious collections like the Gallerie dell'Accademia in Venice, their original home at San Francesco speaks to its historical role as a repository of significant art and a place of honor for influential figures. Reddit

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