A large Gothic church begun in 1259 just below the historic centre, on land the Spadalonga family gave the early Franciscan order. The interior is austere — typical of the early Franciscans — but holds important 15th-century fresco cycles by Ottaviano Nelli, Gubbio's most accomplished medieval painter, in the apse. The cloister is also worth a look. The church faces a large open piazza that serves as the modern entry to the old town.
San Francesco
13th-century Franciscan church on the spot where St Francis lodged
A story
The church is built on land donated by the Spadalonga family, who legend says took in a young Francis of Assisi after he renounced his father's wealth and walked half-naked out of Assisi. The chapel of the saint's stay is preserved inside.