Chiesa di San Francesco, Modena

Church in Modena

CC BY-SA 4.0 / Christine Guaetta

The Church of San Francesco in Modena is one of the top attractions in Modena if you're interested in how faith, politics, and art have shaped a city over centuries. Founded around 1244, barely twenty years after the death of St Francis of Assisi, it is among the earliest churches dedicated to him and a powerful reflection of the rapid spread of the Franciscan movement. What began as a humble convent church outside the walls evolved into a landmark inside the city, nurtured by the devotion of friars and patrons who wanted to bring the Saint's message into the heart of Modenese life.

From its origins with the Order of Friars Minor to its later transformations, the Church of San Francesco has been rebuilt, damaged by earthquakes, stripped during military occupation, and lovingly restored. The current neo-Gothic appearance, shaped in the late 19th century by architect Carlo Barbieri, gives the church a romantic, almost storybook feel: a brick façade with a rose window, pointed arches, and a painted portal of St Francis welcoming visitors inside. Once you enter, the building opens up into a space filled with centuries of art, including important paintings and Antonio Begarelli's moving sculptural group “The Deposition.” It is often visited on walking tours of Modena because it embodies so many layers of the city's past in one place.

History and Significance of the Church of San Francesco
Things to See and Do in the Church of San Francesco
How to Get to the Church of San Francesco
Practical Tips on Visiting the Church of San Francesco
Where to Stay close to the Church of San Francesco
Is the Church of San Francesco Worth Visiting?
FAQs for Visiting the Church of San Francesco
Nearby Attractions to the Church of San Francesco

History and Significance of the Church of San Francesco

The story of the Church of San Francesco begins with the swift rise of the Franciscan movement. The Order of Friars Minor of San Francesco d'Assisi was officially recognised in 1221 while the Saint was still alive, and his message of humility and closeness to the poor spread rapidly across Italy. In Modena, that growth was driven by Friar Gherardo Boccabadati, a disciple of St Francis who helped establish the order's presence near Baggiovara, outside the city walls.

In 1244, thanks to the generosity of Bishop Boschetti, the Franciscans were able to move within the city itself, marking a major step in integrating the order into Modena’s religious fabric. By 1257 the roof of the new church was already in place, and it became the burial place of Friar Gherardo, cementing its status as a key Franciscan site. Over the centuries, the church was expanded with external chapels and adapted to changing liturgical and artistic tastes. In 1442, Gherardo’s remains were rediscovered in a marble ark and moved beneath the main altar, underlining his importance for the local community and their memory of early Franciscan devotion.

The 1501 earthquake caused serious damage, and by 1535 the church underwent a major restoration that significantly altered its medieval structure. Later, in 1774, Duke Francesco III d’Este’s reforms to reduce religious institutions forced the Franciscans to abandon the convent. The Napoleonic invasion then led to a particularly harsh chapter: the church was deconsecrated and used for military purposes. After the 1815 Restoration it continued as storage and barracks until Duke Francesco IV of Habsburg-Este ordered a new restoration in 1826, returning it to worship. The final major transformation came between 1886 and 1888, when Carlo Barbieri reshaped the church in neo-Gothic style, giving it the recognisable appearance you see today.

Things to See and Do in the Church of San Francesco

Approaching the church, your eye is immediately drawn to the brick façade with its central rose window and pointed arches, a confident expression of late 19th-century neo-Gothic taste. The stone portal, crowned by a painting of St Francis, hints at the building’s long spiritual lineage. Take a moment to appreciate how the façade both nods to medieval forms and reflects the romantic sensibilities of the 1800s, when Gothic revival architecture was seen as a way to reconnect with the past.

Inside, the church houses a rich collection of artworks and devotional pieces that span several centuries. Near the entrance and throughout the interior, you’ll find paintings such as Giovanni Nigetti’s 17th-century work, Domenico Baroni’s altarpiece from 1838, Bernardino Rossi’s “Family of the Virgin,” and Luigi Mainoni’s 1840 depiction of the Immaculate Conception. Each piece reveals a different stage in Modena’s artistic evolution, from Baroque drama to 19th-century religious painting. The organ, dating from the 18th century and positioned opposite the main entrance, adds another historical layer, still accompanying services and concerts with its resonant sound.

The emotional centre of the church, however, is Antonio Begarelli's “The Deposition,” created in 1531. This sculpture group, capturing the moment when Christ's body is taken down from the cross, is a masterpiece of Modenese art. Begarelli's figures are full of quiet intensity and human emotion, drawing you into the scene rather than holding you at a distance. Combined with the story of Friar Gherardo's marble ark beneath the main altar and the centuries of rebuilding, the church becomes one of the must-see places in Modena for travellers who want to feel how faith and art have helped the city weather political upheaval, war, and change.

How to Get to the Church of San Francesco

The Church of San Francesco is located within Modena's historic area, within comfortable walking distance of major landmarks like Piazza Grande, the cathedral, and the Palazzo Ducale. Most international visitors arrive via Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport, then continue to Modena by train, shuttle, or car, as the city lies about 40 kilometres away. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Modena on Booking.com.

From Modena’s railway station, you can reach the church on foot in roughly 15-20 minutes, following signs towards the centre and then to San Francesco, or by taking one of the local buses that serve the historic neighbourhoods.Use Omnio to easily compare schedules, book train tickets, and find the best prices all in one place for a hassle-free journey across Italy. Taxis are also readily available if you prefer a direct ride.

If you’re travelling by car, remember that much of Modena’s old town operates as a limited traffic zone with restricted access and parking.If you are looking to rent a car in Italy I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you. It’s best to use a public car park or garage on the edge of the centre and walk from there, enjoying the narrow streets and glimpses of church towers as you make your way to San Francesco.

Practical Tips on Visiting the Church of San Francesco

Suggested tips: Combine your visit with nearby historic sights and give yourself time to sit quietly inside, taking in the artworks and atmosphere rather than rushing through.
Best time to visit: Late morning or mid-afternoon usually offer a calm atmosphere; avoid Mass times if you wish to explore freely without disturbing services.
Entrance fee:
Opening hours:
Official website:
How long to spend: Plan around 30-60 minutes to admire the façade, interior artworks, and Begarelli’s “The Deposition,” longer if you enjoy sitting for reflection or prayer.
Accessibility: The main entrance usually has a small step or threshold; once inside, the nave is fairly level, though some side chapels may have minor steps. Visitors with reduced mobility should approach carefully and ask for assistance if needed.
Facilities: As an active church, San Francesco offers limited visitor facilities; cafés, restrooms, and shops can be found in the nearby streets of the historic centre.
Photography tip: Be discreet and respectful; focus on architectural details, stained glass, and close-ups of sculptures like “The Deposition” where photography is permitted.
Guided tours: Some city walking tours include San Francesco, offering deeper insights into its Franciscan roots and artistic treasures; check with local guides or the tourist office.
Nearby food options: The surrounding area is dotted with trattorias, bakeries, and wine bars where you can enjoy Modenese specialities after your visit.

Where to Stay close to the Church of San Francesco

Staying near the Church of San Francesco puts you in a quiet yet central part of Modena, within walking distance of most major sights. For a cosy, characterful base close to the historic streets and main squares, Hotel Cervetta 5 offers a stylish, intimate atmosphere. If you want easy access both to the old town and the railway station for day trips, Best Western Premier Milano Palace Hotel is a comfortable option. Another appealing choice is PHI Hotel Canalgrande, a historic palazzo hotel that reflects the same sense of period charm you’ll find in Modena’s churches and palaces.

Is the Church of San Francesco Worth Visiting?

The Church of San Francesco is definitely worth visiting, especially if you’re interested in the story of the Franciscans and how their ideals shaped Italian cities. As one of the earliest churches dedicated to St Francis, it carries a strong spiritual and historical resonance. Add in its neo-Gothic façade, the layered history of earthquakes, military occupation, and restorations, and the presence of major artworks like Begarelli’s “The Deposition,” and you have a place that offers far more than a quick look from the outside. It’s a quiet, atmospheric stop that deepens your understanding of Modena’s religious and cultural life.

What Other Travellers Say...

Reviews Summary

4.6 (300)

Church of St. Francis of Assisi, located at Piazza S. Francesco D'Assisi in Modena, sits on the edge of the historic centre where a small piazza and a long porticoed street lead into town; the exterior reflects Franciscan austerity while the interior houses richly decorated artworks including a noted Deposition from the Cross by Antonio Begarelli, though some visitors find the interior rather dark; parking is available on a nearby avenue and it's considered worth visiting for its architecture and place in the downtown tour.

Mihai Mogos

3 years ago

"Very nice architecture"

Harish Luther

6 years ago

"Worth visiting."

Marco Torazzi

a year ago

"Very beautiful church dedicated to the saint on the edge of the historic center of the city of Modena. While from the outside it partly reflects theideology of Franciscan austerity, the interior is quite rich in decorated works of art celebrating the Catholic tradition. Next to the sacred building there is a small square also named after San Francesco, which co ects to the long porticoed street that leads to the historic center itself. Parking available in the nearby avenue...."

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FAQs for Visiting the Church of San Francesco

Yes, as with most churches in Italy, modest clothing is expected; shoulders should be covered and very short skirts or shorts are best avoided.

Yes, regular services are held; check local notices at the church entrance or ask nearby residents or the tourist office for current Mass times.

Photography may be permitted without flash, but rules can vary; always look for signs and follow any guidance from staff or clergy.

Yes, children are welcome, and older ones may find the artworks and stories particularly engaging, especially if you explain the history in simple terms.

Nearby Attractions to the Church of San Francesco

Modena Cathedral (Duomo di Modena): A Romanesque masterpiece with finely carved portals, a beautiful interior, and an evocative crypt.
Ghirlandina Tower: The city's iconic bell tower beside the cathedral, offering panoramic views when open for climbs.
Piazza Grande: Modena's UNESCO-listed central square, framed by the cathedral, civic buildings, and historic façades.
Palazzo Ducale di Modena: The grand Baroque palace that once housed the Este dukes and now serves as Italy's Military Academy.
Palazzo dei Musei: A cultural complex bringing together Modena's key art and archaeological collections, ideal for extending your exploration of the city's history.

The Chiesa di San Francesco appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Modena!

Moira & Andy

Hey! We're Moira & Andy. From hiking the Camino to trips around Europe in Bert our campervan — we've been traveling together since retirement in 2020!

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