Is there really a wolf’s tomb inside?

San Francesco della Pace, Gubbio

Church in Gubbio

Hidden along Via Giorgio Mastro, the Chiesa di San Francesco della Pace is one of the more unusual yet fascinating places to explore in Gubbio. Its modest exterior - resembling a simple home with a wooden door and balcony - means many visitors pass by without noticing it, even though it is one of the things to do in Gubbio for those interested in local folklore. This small church is also often visited on walking tours of Gubbio, thanks to its intimate connection with one of the city's most enduring stories: the legend of the Wolf of Gubbio.

Inside, the church preserves the cave where the wolf was said to have lived before being tamed by Saint Francis of Assisi. A sarcophagus believed to be the wolf's tomb, and even the discovery of a large skeleton in 1872, have helped fuel the legend and secure the church's place in Gubbio's cultural imagination.

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

History and Significance of Chiesa di San Francesco della Pace

Though humble in appearance, this small church holds far-reaching significance rooted in legend, devotion, and tradition. It was constructed above the cave traditionally associated with the Wolf of Gubbio, the fearsome creature that, according to Franciscan tradition, was pacified by Saint Francis through compassion and negotiation rather than violence. This act of peace is said to have inspired the name later granted to the church.

In 1584, the church received the title San Francesco della Pace when the stone upon which Saint Francis preached to the wolf was transferred here from the Church of Vittorina. Earlier renovations in the 19th century revealed a large wolf skeleton near the site, further entwining archaeological curiosity with folklore and strengthening the church's symbolic importance.

The church also forms an essential part of Gubbio’s local traditions, especially due to its connection to the University of Bricklayers, Stonemasons, and Similar Arts - one of the key custodians of the Festa dei Ceri. The captains of the festival are elected here, and the statuettes of Saints Ubaldo, Giorgio, and Antonio, which crown the wooden ceri, are kept within its walls.

Things to See and Do in Chiesa di San Francesco della Pace

While the church lacks the grandeur of Gubbio’s larger sacred buildings, its quiet interior invites reflection on the stories that have shaped the city. Visitors can descend into the crypt, where the stone that once covered the wolf’s tomb is preserved. The sarcophagus traditionally attributed to the wolf is another intriguing element, especially for those interested in the blending of history and legend.

The connection to the Festa dei Ceri adds another layer to the visit. Seeing the sacred statuettes and learning about the role of the craft guild offers insight into one of the must-see places in Gubbio for those keen on local festivities. The church's close association with the city's artisans also reveals how tightly woven community, craft, and spirituality have been throughout Gubbio's history.

Outside, take a moment to appreciate the unassuming façade - a reminder that some of Gubbio’s most meaningful stories are hidden behind modest doors.

How to Get to Chiesa di San Francesco della Pace

The nearest airports are Perugia “San Francesco” Airport (PEG) and Ancona Airport. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Gubbio on Booking.com. To reach Gubbio by public transport, take a regional train to Fossato di Vico, then connect by bus into the historic centre. 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. From Piazza 40 Martiri, follow the medieval streets to Via Giorgio Mastro, where the church blends into the surrounding buildings. Visitors arriving by car can park near Piazza 40 Martiri before walking into the old town. 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.

Practical Tips on Visiting Chiesa di San Francesco della Pace

Suggested tips: Approach with curiosity - the charm lies in the story more than the architecture.
Best time to visit: Late afternoon, when the surrounding streets are quieter.
Entrance fee: €2
Opening hours: Fri - Sun 10:00 to 13:00 / 15:00 to 17:30
How long to spend: Around 15-20 minutes.
Accessibility: The crypt has steps and may not be accessible for all visitors.
Facilities: Minimal; cafés and shops nearby.
Photography tip: Capture the contrast between the unassuming façade and its legendary story.
Guided tours: Often included in themed or festival-related tours.
Nearby food options: Trattorie and cafés throughout the historic streets just a short walk away.

Where to Stay close to Chiesa di San Francesco della Pace

For a convenient stay near Gubbio’s historic core, consider Hotel Gattapone, a charming base close to many major sites. Another excellent option is Hotel Bosone Palace, offering historic elegance in the heart of town. For additional comfort, Park Hotel Ai Cappuccini provides a peaceful retreat not far from the medieval centre.

Is Chiesa di San Francesco della Pace Worth Visiting?

Yes - especially for those interested in Franciscan stories, folklore, or Gubbio’s deep-rooted traditions. Though small and architecturally modest, the church’s legendary associations and role in the Festa dei Ceri make it a meaningful stop that adds depth to any visit to the city.

What Other Travellers Say...

Reviews Summary

4.6 (587)

Chiesa di San Francesco in Largo S. Francesco, Gubbio, is a compact, historically significant church admired for its outstanding fresco cycle by Ottaviano Nelli and other notable artworks; visitors report it can be crowded, photography is restricted, there's a well-stocked shop, and some areas such as the crypt are not always open, while the site is linked to local traditions and guild ceremonies connected to the Festa dei Ceri.

DAVID SNYDER

8 years ago

"Outstanding fresco cycle by Ottaviano Nelli amongst some other great works of art."

Péter Szentes

2 years ago

"Beautiful and very important church(es). Of course crowded with visitors. Unfortunately no photos allowed. Well equipped shop."

Patrick Mowrer

a year ago

"Nice chapel. There is no presence of franciscan friars, and unfortunately, the crypto was closed"

FAQs for Visiting Chiesa di San Francesco della Pace

A sarcophagus traditionally identified as the wolf’s tomb is preserved in the church, reinforcing the legend.
Was a wolf skeleton actually found here?
Yes, a large skeleton was discovered during 19th-century renovations, contributing to the story’s endurance.
Is the church easy to find?
It blends into the surrounding houses, so look carefully along Via Giorgio Mastro.
Can I visit the crypt?
Yes, when open, visitors may enter the crypt to view the stone connected to the wolf’s tomb.
Is the church involved in the Festa dei Ceri?
Very much so - it houses the statuettes of the saints and serves as a meeting point for the festival’s organisers.

Nearby Attractions to Chiesa di San Francesco della Pace

Church of San Francesco - Larger Franciscan church associated with Saint Francis's visit to Gubbio.
Piazza Grande - Gubbio's famed hanging square with panoramic views.
Roman Theatre - Ancient open-air theatre at the base of the city.
Palazzo dei Consoli - Iconic Gothic civic palace overlooking the town.
Via dei Consoli - Historic street lined with artisans and cafés.

The San Francesco della Pace appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Gubbio!

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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