Basilica of Saint Francis

The origins of this site stretch back to the 5th century when it was founded by Bishop Neone as the Church of the Apostles. Over the centuries, the structure underwent significant changes, evolving in size and importance as Ravenna shifted through different eras of power and influence. By the 9th century, a larger basilica replaced the original, eventually becoming known as San Pietro Maggiore. When the Franciscan friars arrived in the 13th century, they adopted the site and bestowed upon it the name it carries today, firmly embedding the Franciscan tradition into the local landscape. The year 1321 remains a pivotal moment in the narrative of the basilica. When the renowned poet Dante Alighieri passed away, his funeral rites were held within these sacred walls. This event forever linked the church to Italy’s most profound literary legacy. The atmosphere here retains a quiet gravity, drawing scholars, pilgrims, and curious visitors alike who wish to pay their respects near the place where the great poet was first laid to rest. In the modern era, the basilica has continued to serve the community while navigating the scars of history, including the damage sustained during the Second World War. Careful restoration work during the 20th century involved peeling back layers of baroque additions to reveal the building's more ancient, minimalist spirit. Perhaps the most intriguing feature remains the crypt, where the rising water table creates a surreal, aquatic scene that transforms ancient mosaics into a living, shimmering display of history.