La chapelle et son autel
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Convent and Church of San Francesco

4.6
·48 reviews·Monte Sant'Angelo, Italy

A 14th-century spiritual haven in Monte Sant'Angelo, blending history, legend, and serene beauty.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
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La chapelle et son autel

Convent and Church of San Francesco

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A 14th-century spiritual haven in Monte Sant'Angelo, blending history, legend, and serene beauty.

4.6
(48 reviews)

"A place of great beauty and spirituality, with a serene and peaceful atmosphere."

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TIP

Explore the Museum

Don't miss the adjoining G. Tancredi Ethnographic Museum for a deeper dive into local history. :museum:

Appreciate the Art

The statues inside are noted for their charm and beauty. Take time to admire them. :statue:

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

14th-Century Architecture

14th-Century Architecture

Main Church Area

Discover remnants of the original 14th-century structure, a testament to centuries of history and architectural evolution.

Queen Joanna I's Sarcophagus

Queen Joanna I's Sarcophagus

Right of the Entrance

See the intriguing sarcophagus, believed by legend to be the burial place of Queen Joanna I of Naples.

Miraculous Wooden Crucifix

Miraculous Wooden Crucifix

Inside the Church

Marvel at the revered wooden crucifix, a significant religious artifact with a rich history within the convent.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit

While the Convent and Church of San Francesco is a spiritual haven, consider visiting during off-peak hours to fully appreciate its serene atmosphere. Weekday mornings or late afternoons often offer a more peaceful experience, allowing for quiet contemplation and better appreciation of the historical architecture.

Understanding the History

Originally built in the 14th century, this site has undergone significant renovations. Recent efforts have uncovered some of its original medieval features, offering a glimpse into its rich past. Be sure to look for the sarcophagus, rumored to be Queen Joanna I's resting place.

Best Times

When
Weekday Mornings
Why
Peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Late Afternoons
Why
Quieter contemplation
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Explore the Museum

Don't miss the adjoining G. Tancredi Ethnographic Museum for a deeper dive into local history. :museum:

Appreciate the Art

The statues inside are noted for their charm and beauty. Take time to admire them. :statue:

Consider the History

Understand the church's neoclassical style is due to renovations, but 14th-century elements remain. :classical_building:

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Tips

from all over the internet

Explore the Museum

Don't miss the adjoining G. Tancredi Ethnographic Museum for a deeper dive into local history. :museum:

Appreciate the Art

The statues inside are noted for their charm and beauty. Take time to admire them. :statue:

Consider the History

Understand the church's neoclassical style is due to renovations, but 14th-century elements remain. :classical_building:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(48 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the Convent and Church of San Francesco for its beauty, spirituality, and serene atmosphere. The historical significance, including the legend of Queen Joanna I's tomb and the presence of a miraculous crucifix, adds to its allure. While the exterior might show signs of age, the well-maintained interior and charming statues are consistently appreciated.

"The Parish of Saint Francis of Assisi in Castel San Angelo is a place of great beauty and spirituality. The church is welcoming and well-kept, with a serene and peaceful atmosphere. The strategic position in the city makes it easy to reach. I highly recommend visiting this parish to admire its beauty and feel its spiritual energy. The statues inside are truly of great charm and beauty."

Stefano Bianco

"The Church of San Francesco can be traced back to the years between 1343 and 1352. Its construction was ordered by Joanna I of Anjou, ruler of the Kingdom of Naples, at the request of the Archbishop of Siponto-Gargano, Fra' Pietro.
Unfortunately, the church is currently in neoclassical style due to numerous renovations over the centuries. Fortunately, in the last 20 years, some of the 14th-century church has been brought to light. Legend (and various studies of existing documents) holds that Queen Joanna is buried here and not in Naples. Indeed, to the right of the entrance is a sarcophagus that was moved during restoration in 1676 from its original location in the central choir area.
Anyone visiting Monte Sant'Angelo cannot miss a visit to the Church of San Francesco, with the adjoining G. Tancredi Ethnographic Museum."

Domenico Luciano Moretti

"Church well maintained inside but less so on the outside, located in the historic center of the town."

Luigi Esposito

What People Like

Spiritual atmosphere
Beautiful statues
Historical significance

What People Dislike

Exterior condition

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Convent and Church of San Francesco is located in the historic center of Monte Sant'Angelo, making it easily accessible on foot once you are in the town. If arriving by car, be aware that parking in the historic center can be challenging, so consider parking slightly further out and walking. Public transport options to Monte Sant'Angelo are available, typically involving buses from nearby cities.

Parking near the Convent and Church of San Francesco can be limited, especially in the historic center. It's advisable to look for public parking areas slightly away from the immediate vicinity and enjoy a short walk through the charming streets of Monte Sant'Angelo.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Generally, entry to the church itself is free, allowing visitors to experience its spiritual ambiance and admire its architecture. However, there might be specific areas or the adjoining museum that require an admission fee. It's always a good idea to check for any updated entry requirements before your visit.

The opening hours for the Convent and Church of San Francesco can vary, especially due to its nature as an active parish. It's recommended to check the official parish website or contact them directly for the most current visiting hours to ensure you can access the church during your planned visit.

Yes, the G. Tancredi Ethnographic Museum, located adjacent to the Church of San Francesco, typically has an admission fee. This fee contributes to the upkeep of the museum and its exhibits, offering a more in-depth look at the region's cultural heritage.

🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience

To best experience the Convent and Church of San Francesco, take your time to soak in the serene atmosphere. Admire the statues, reflect on the historical layers of the building, and consider visiting the adjacent museum for a richer understanding of the area's past. Visiting during quieter times can enhance the spiritual and contemplative experience.

The Convent and Church of San Francesco holds significant historical importance, dating back to the 14th century. It was commissioned by Queen Joanna I of Anjou and has undergone numerous renovations, with recent efforts revealing original medieval features. The legend of Queen Joanna's burial here adds a layer of mystique.

As an active parish, the Church of San Francesco hosts regular religious services. Information about these services and any special events is usually available at the church itself or through local parish announcements. Attending a service can offer a unique cultural and spiritual insight.

While the interior of the church is generally well-maintained, some reviews suggest the exterior might be less so. This is often a characteristic of historic buildings that have undergone extensive renovations over centuries. Focus on the beauty and history within.

📸 📸 Photography

Photography rules can vary in religious sites. It's best to check for signage or ask a church official before taking photos inside. Often, flash photography is prohibited to protect artwork and maintain a respectful atmosphere. Capturing the exterior and the surrounding historic town is usually permitted.

The charming historic streets leading to the church offer picturesque views. The church's facade, though sometimes noted as less maintained, still holds historical character. For interior shots (if permitted), focus on architectural details and any significant artworks.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Families visiting the Convent and Church of San Francesco can find a peaceful respite. While the historical and spiritual aspects might be more engaging for adults, children can appreciate the visual elements like statues and the unique sarcophagus. The adjoining museum offers a chance for a more interactive learning experience about local history, which can be more captivating for younger visitors. Consider a shorter visit focused on the main church and museum to keep children engaged. Reddit

🙏 Spiritual Seekers

For those on a spiritual journey, the Convent and Church of San Francesco offers a deeply serene and contemplative environment. The church's history as a place of worship, the presence of the miraculous wooden crucifix, and the stories of saints associated with the convent create a powerful atmosphere for prayer and reflection. Visitors often report feeling a profound sense of peace and spiritual energy during their visit. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Glimpse into History

The Convent and Church of San Francesco boasts a rich history, with its origins tracing back to the years between 1343 and 1352. Its construction was initiated by Queen Joanna I of Anjou, a significant figure in the Kingdom of Naples, following a request from the Archbishop of Siponto-Gargano, Fra' Pietro. Over the centuries, the church has undergone numerous renovations, leading to its current neoclassical style. However, in the last two decades, dedicated efforts have brought to light some of the original 14th-century elements, offering visitors a tangible connection to its medieval past. This blend of historical layers makes it a fascinating site for those interested in architectural evolution and historical narratives.

Adding to its allure is the legend that Queen Joanna I is buried here, rather than in Naples. This belief is supported by the presence of a sarcophagus located to the right of the entrance. This sarcophagus was moved during a restoration in 1676 from its original position in the central choir area, further fueling speculation about its royal occupant. The church also houses a miraculous wooden crucifix and was a place where Saint Giuseppe Fasano, a minor friar, spent his novitiate year, adding to its spiritual significance and historical depth. Anyone visiting Monte Sant'Angelo is strongly encouraged to include this site in their itinerary to appreciate its unique blend of history, legend, and spirituality. Reddit

Spiritual and Artistic Treasures

The Convent and Church of San Francesco is not only a historical landmark but also a place of spiritual significance and artistic beauty. Visitors often describe the church as welcoming, well-kept, and possessing a serene and peaceful atmosphere, making it ideal for contemplation and spiritual reflection. The statues within the church are frequently highlighted for their charm and beauty, inviting visitors to pause and appreciate the artistry. The presence of a miraculous wooden crucifix adds another layer of reverence and historical interest for pilgrims and art enthusiasts alike.

Beyond the immediate church interior, the adjoining G. Tancredi Ethnographic Museum provides a valuable extension to the visitor experience. This museum offers insights into the local culture and history, complementing the religious and architectural aspects of the church. The strategic position of the church within the city also makes it easily accessible, allowing visitors to seamlessly integrate it into their exploration of Monte Sant'Angelo. The combination of its spiritual ambiance, artistic elements, and historical context makes the Convent and Church of San Francesco a truly memorable destination. Reddit

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