Did you know?
After Francis died, his body was placed in the Church of San Giorgio (today the Basilica of St. Clare). Construction of his new basilica was led by Brother Elias, and had as its goal a beautiful basilica worthy of the most popular saint of the era, in addition to being a place of welcome to the many pilgrims that would come. The site had been called the “Hill of Hell” because criminals were executed there; however, it became known as the “Hill of Paradise” after the church was completed and Francis’ remains placed within.
Today the church is composed of three levels. The lower basilica was completed after just two years of construction in the Romanesque architectural style, and Francis’ body was buried deep underneath the main altar. It was designed to be a tomblike burial place. The upper church was completed in the Gothic style in 1253. The ceilings were higher and its nave brighter to symbolize the Resurrection. The best artists of the day—Giotto, Cimabue, Martini, and Lorenzetti—were called in to embellish both levels. In 1818, excavation was begun to uncover Francis’ tomb. After fifty-two days of digging, the sarcophagus was discovered beneath heavy blocks of travertine rock. The space around it was excavated and left austere and simple, true to the spirit of Francis. This created a third level—that of the tomb. (Footnote #7 Chapter 18)
Thoman, Bret. Saint Francis of Assisi: Passion, Poverty & the Man Who Transformed the Catholic Church (Kindle Locations 3076-3085). TAN Books. Kindle Edition. (This is an excellent book for use in Initial Formation Programs!)
Diane F. Menditto, OFS
Chair, National Formation Commission
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Peace and blessings,
Dona Gibbons OFS
Regional Formation Director
Juan de Padilla Region
Kansas~NW Missouri~Oklahoma
