The Church of San Francesco in Cortona, Italy, has a beautiful, peaceful interior. If you haven’t been to Cortona, then you’re missing one of the prettiest hill towns in Italy. The elevation is so high that you can see for miles on a clear day. You’ll need a good pair of walking shoes as you hike up and up. And up some more. Make sure you make it all the way to the top of the town but stop along the way to rest and to see the amazing sites and buildings throughout.

The Church of San Francesco in Cortona Italy

You’ll want to stay awhile in this gorgeous building. And you’ll probably need the rest after the climb. It’s a bit hard to find, but if you follow the signs and wander a bit, you’ll happen upon it. Built in 1247, the Church is Gothic in style. The building was remodeled and added on to through the centuries. The beauty of the outside and inside when the sun is streaming through the windows is simply amazing.

Once you enter the large entry door, there’s a wooden roof, rafters, and beams typical in many of the Italian Churches if you look up. I love the wood’s color, and it’s repeated in the smooth benches where worshipers sat for centuries. Workers revealed hidden windows and frescoes during restoration work. As you move towards the altar, which was also replaced with a marble one, gaze at the paintings along the walls. Late XVI century works by Commodi, Cigoli, and Pietro da Cortona are considered one of the greatest masterpieces of the XVII century.

Saint Francis Relics

Brother Elias constructed the Church, the saint’s successor, to lead the Franciscan order. Brother Elias left some sacred relics belonging to Saint Francis. His tunic, a finely embroidered pillow or cushion, and a book of his writing. There is also a fragment of the Holy Cross at the alter, preserved by Brother Elias.

Take your time to enjoy the beauty and peace of the Church. Before venturing on to the next amazing site in Cortona.

We’ve been to this Church twice through the years. The first time we were fortunate to be able to take photos. You can’t take photos anymore. It protects the works of art. Enjoy!

Other Churches in Italy to visit

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