49/50.- Umbria, Assisi, The Basilicas

The wealth of the two superposed Saint Francis Basilicas is somewhat surprising when one thinks of the poverty and simplicity advocated by Saint Francis. But this being said, both sanctuaries are beautiful, albeit in different ways. The lower basilica is squat and dark, and as a result offers a more intimate atmosphere. Its walls and ceilings are covered with frescoes realized by one of Giotto’s pupils. The gothic upper Basilica is brighter and more spacious, and here Giotto himself worked with his aides on 28 frescoes depicting the life of Saint Francis. The Basilica was badly damaged by an earthquake, which claimed several lives, in 1997. While work was immediately undertaken to restore the churches and their works of art, there were complaints that the churches were given priority over the houses of the many people who were left homeless by the quake.

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