Basilica of St. Francis Viterbo, Italy Verified listing

Basilica of St. Francis Viterbo, Italy

The Basilica of St. Francis (Italian: Basilica di San Francesco alla Rocca) stands in Viterbo, Lazio, Italy, on Piazza San Francesco #6. Pope Pius XII elevated the church to minor basilica status in 1949. Located just northeast of Piazza della Rocca Albornoz, it sits behind the Palazzo Grandori, near the northern edge of the historic city, close to Porta Fiorentina.

The basilica holds the tombs of two popes, Clement IV and Adrian V, adding to its historical importance. This church has long been a destination for pilgrims and tourists drawn by its spiritual significance and its architectural beauty. The serene atmosphere invites visitors to reflect and appreciate the church's legacy.

Since December 2014, the Ministry of Cultural Heritage and Activities has managed the basilica. The Lazio Museum Centre took control in 2019, ensuring better preservation and promotion of its art and history. This management shift allows the basilica to maintain and share its rich cultural and spiritual heritage.

Today, the Basilica di San Francesco alla Rocca serves as both a place of worship and a symbol of Viterbo’s cultural legacy. Visitors come to admire its history and to experience the peaceful ambiance of the church. Whether you seek reflection or exploration, the basilica remains an essential part of the city’s religious and cultural fabric.

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