Rebuilt in 1926, the Chiesa di San Francesco has a deceptively modern appearance. However, this relatively plain white marble exterior conceals a wealth of historic treasures dating back over 1200 years.The origins of today’s church lie in an oratory built in the early 8th century by St Antoninus, the patron saint of Sorrento, as a place for private worship. The Franciscan Friars took over the building in the 14th century, transforming it into a church to serve the monastery which still occupies the cloister to this day. Subsequent extensions and renovations have left traces of many different architectural periods and styles, from Gothic and Renaissance to Arabic and modern influences.Before you step inside the church, pause to admire the statue of the Immaculate Virgin and the 15th-century wooden door that is a legacy of the craftsmanship of past generations. Inside you will find some important frescoes and paintings, as well as wooden statues of St Francis and Jesus Christ housed in the side chapels. The ceiling of the nave is particularly impressive, with Baroque stucco details on its soaring arches.The monastery cloister is also open to the public, so before you end your visit, be sure to take a peaceful walk through its ancient stone arches, ornamental trees and flowerbeds, which offer an oasis of quiet contemplation in the midst of the city.The church hosts a varied programme of activities, including free art exhibitions and classical music concerts, especially during the summer months, so check out the notice board by the gate for details of forthcoming events. Additionally, there is often an English mass on Saturday evenings, when you can absorb the special atmosphere of this historic place of worship in an authentic setting.The Chiesa di San Francesco is near Villa Comunale park, around a five-minute walk from Piazza Tasso. The church is open daily to visitors but closes at lunchtime for around an hour. Admission is free.
Chiesa di San Francesco Tours and Activities
Visit Chiesa di San Francesco
Tours & day trips
See all 483 activitiesOpens in new tabAmalfi Coast: Positano, Amalfi & Ravello Guided Tour
Shopping & fashion
See all 13 activitiesOpens in new tabPositano, Amalfi and Ravello - Group Tour from Napoli
Food, drink & nightlife
See all 98 activitiesOpens in new tabVesuvius, Pompeii (private guide),vineyards and winery tour, lunch wine tas...
Weddings & honeymoons
See all 17 activitiesOpens in new tabCapri: Private Island Boat Tour for Couples
Private & custom tours
See all 261 activitiesOpens in new tabCapri and Blue Grotto Private Tour from Naples or Sorrento
Popular places to visit
Sorrento Lift
Built into the cliffs of Sorrento, this elevator provides quick access from the city’s beaches and marina to the Old Town.
Villa Comunale Park
Explore the lovely green spaces of Villa Comunale Park and enjoy the boating in Sorrento. Wander through the seaside and beautiful beaches in this romantic area.
Basilica di Sant'Antonio
You can learn about the history of Sorrento with a trip to Basilica di Sant'Antonio. Stroll along the marina in this romantic area or visit its top-notch restaurants.
Piazza Sant'Antonino
Find out about the history of Sorrento when you take a trip to Piazza Sant'Antonino. Wander through the seaside and beautiful beaches in this romantic area.
Sedile Dominova
This impressive building has played a vital role in local politics stretching back to the 14th century.
Sorrento Foundation
You can spend an afternoon studying the exhibits at Sorrento Foundation in Sorrento. Wander through the seaside and beautiful beaches in this romantic area.
Top Chiesa di San Francesco Hotel & Accommodation Deals
Check availability on hotels close to Chiesa di San Francesco
- Holidays and getaways similar to Chiesa di San Francesco
- Are there hotels near Chiesa di San Francesco?
- Hotels near popular Sorrento Attractions
- What kind of hotels are in Chiesa di San Francesco?
- Expedia's Latest Trends