St. Francis is buried in the Papal Basilica and Sacred Convent of Saint Francis in Assisi, Italy. His remains are interred within a stone sarcophagus located in the Cripta di San Francesco in the Basilica Inferiore (Lower Basilica).
The Final Resting Place of Saint Francis
The tomb of St. Francis of Assisi, a revered figure in Christianity and the founder of the Franciscan Order, is a significant pilgrimage site. His burial place is specifically found within the vast complex of the Basilica di San Francesco, which consists of two main basilicas (Upper and Lower) and a crypt.
The crypt, housing the saint's tomb, was not always accessible. For nearly 600 years, the exact location of St. Francis's remains remained a mystery, hidden away to protect them from potential desecration.
Discovery and Restoration of the Tomb
The tomb was finally rediscovered in the 19th century through dedicated efforts:
- Discovery: After a rigorous 52-day excavation, the tomb was unearthed in 1818. This monumental discovery revealed the stone sarcophagus containing the saint's remains beneath the Basilica di San Francesco.
- Restoration: Centuries later, in 2011, the tomb underwent a meticulous restoration process to preserve this sacred site for future generations.
The Cripta di San Francesco provides a solemn and reverent space for visitors to reflect and pay their respects to the saint.
Key Details About St. Francis's Tomb
For a clearer overview of the tomb's history and location, consider these key facts:
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Location | Papal Basilica and Sacred Convent of Saint Francis, Assisi, Italy |
| Specific Site | Cripta di San Francesco (Crypt of St. Francis) within the Basilica Inferiore |
| Contents | Stone sarcophagus containing the remains of St. Francis |
| Discovery Year | 1818 (after being hidden for almost 600 years) |
| Restoration Year | 2011 |
Visitors to Assisi can access the Basilica Inferiore and descend into the crypt to witness the humble yet powerful resting place of St. Francis.
