The Convento di San Francesco d’Assisi is one of Cosenza’s most significant Catholic landmarks. Established in the 13th century, the monastery shows a glimpse of medieval Calabria in its imposing hilltop structure. Check out the building’s timeworn façade and go inside to see the treasures that survived earthquakes and wartime bombardment.
Perched on top of Pancrazio Hill, the Convento di San Francesco d’Assisi looks out across the surrounding hillsides from the city’s preserved medieval quarter. View the monastery’s impressive façade and imagine the history written on the walls. The monastery was built on the site of a former Benedictine abbey, which was destroyed by an earthquake in 1184. The building was rebuilt in 1217 by a disciple of St. Francis, but another earthquake struck in 1854. Further destruction was brought about by bombings in 1943, leaving the monastery almost completely ruined.
Note the neoclassical styling of the façade, which was rebuilt in the late 19th century. You’ll see tall marble statues of Mary the Immaculate and St. Francis. Step inside to explore the monastery’s three naves, shaped in a Latin cross. Look up to see the gold-plated ceiling, which dates back to the 16th century. The ornate carved-wood pulpit and gilt altar are some of the highlights of the building’s interior.
Explore the interior to find more treasured religious artworks. Examine an 18th-century crucifix, 16th-century statues and a wooden sarcophagus that holds the remains of deacon Giovanni da Castrovillari. Wander into the Chapel of St. Catherine to see the church’s collection of paintings.
The Convento di San Francesco d’Assisi is easy to reach via the Via del Seggio and the Piazza Duomo. Add the monastery to your walking-tour itinerary of Cosenza’s Old Town. It is less than a 10-minute walk from the Centro Storico. The monastery is open daily. Mass is held every afternoon, except Sundays, when it is held in the morning. Respect the church’s worshippers by visiting outside regular service times.
