The Basilica of Saint Francis of Assisi

With its 80 churches and chapels, Palermo fully embraces its identity as a deeply religious city. While many of these buildings may sometimes look alike, a few still manage to stand out, like the Basilica of Saint Francis of Assisi, built in the 13th century, in the historic Kalsa district. What makes this one special is its exterior. There’s no trace of the Baroque style here. Instead, this is one of the finest examples of Gothic architecture in Palermo. Many visitors even claim it’s the most beautiful Gothic church in the city. We’ll let you decide that for yourself! Tucked away from the usual tourist routes, the basilica might require a little detour, but believe us, it’s worth it.

But what draws so many people to this church? One big reason is the magnificent rose window on the façade. It immediately catches the eye and contrasts beautifully with the otherwise Gothic look. Despite several renovations between the 16th and 19th centuries, the building remains impressively well preserved. You can still admire the pointed arches, slender columns, carved portals, and rich decorative elements in all their glory.

Inside, you’ll also find stucco works by Giacomo Serpotta, the renowned Italian sculptor who played a major role in spreading the Baroque movement throughout Italy. Though it was damaged in the 19th century by an earthquake, the basilica remains open to visitors free of charge. The best time to come is early in the morning, when the atmosphere is at its most peaceful. The Basilica of Saint Francis of Assisi gives you a real glimpse into Palermo’s rich past, and a close look at some truly remarkable artistic heritage.