The white stucco and modern-looking facade of the Chiesa di San Francesco masks the building’s ancient history. Founded in the first half of the eighth century as an oratory by St. Antonino, the patron saint of Sorrento, it was originally a place of private worship. In the 14th century Franciscan friars turned it into a church. It was rebuilt in 1926.
The exterior is not as ornate as some of Sorrento’s other churches, so look for San Francesco’s special details. They include the statue of the Immaculate Virgin at the top of the building and the wooden door that dates back to the 1500s.
Venture inside the church and marvel at the workmanship of the frescoes. As you pass by the side chapels, pause to study some of the church’s other works of art including paintings and a wooden statue of St. Francis and the crucified Christ. Look up at the nave’s vaulted ceiling and its Baroque stucco decorations.
Walk around the courtyard of the church’s adjacent cloister with its ornamental trees and plants that curl around the interlaced arches and snake up the stone pillars. The cloister is still in use as a residence for Franciscan monks. The building has been restored many times over the centuries each period has left its mark. Observe the mixture of architectural styles with Gothic, Renaissance and Arabic influences.
Take the time to enjoy this serene environment. Inspect the notices posted outside the church’s gate to determine when you will want to return. Many local events are organized here. In the summer months the cloister hosts a number of free art exhibitions, and in the evenings there are often classical musical concerts in the church. The mass on Saturday evenings is often in English.
Situated near Villa Comunale park, the church and cloister are just a five-minute walk from Piazza Tasso.
Chiesa di San Francesco is open daily until the early evening, but closes for an hour around lunch time. Admission is free.
Chiesa di San Francesco Tours and Activities
Visit Chiesa di San Francesco
Plan a trip to see Chiesa di San Francesco
Eurostars Hotel Excelsior
Reviewed on Mar. 18, 2024
Tours & day trips
See all 561 activitiesOpens in new tabAmalfi Coast: Positano, Amalfi & Ravello Guided Tour
Shopping & fashion
See all 7 activitiesOpens in new tabCapri: Guided Capri and Anacapri Experience
Weddings & honeymoons
See all 20 activitiesOpens in new tabWellness Day in Positano Private Activity
Classes & workshops
See all 58 activitiesOpens in new tabSorrento: Pizza Making Class
Adventure & outdoor
See all 42 activitiesOpens in new tabSmall group tour to Positano, Amalfi and Ravello
Popular places to visit
Sorrento Lift
Built into the cliffs of Sorrento, this elevator provides quick access from the city’s beaches and marina to the Old Town.
Villa Comunale Park
Explore the lovely green spaces of Villa Comunale Park and enjoy the boating in Sorrento. Wander the seaside and beautiful beaches in this romantic area.
Basilica di Sant'Antonio
You can learn about the history of Sorrento with a trip to Basilica di Sant'Antonio. Stroll along the seaside in this romantic area, or check out its top-notch restaurants.
Piazza Sant'Antonino
Find out about the history of Sorrento with a stop at Piazza Sant'Antonino. Wander the seaside and beautiful beaches in this romantic area.
Sedile Dominova
Admire the stunning outdoor frescoes of this 14th-century building that used to be a place for noblemen to discuss politics.
Sorrento Cathedral
Decorative chapels and a dazzling collection of frescoes by notable Italian artists beautify the interior of this 15th-century religious monument.
Best Lodging Options Near Chiesa di San Francesco
Check availability on hotels close to Chiesa di San Francesco
- Vacations and getaways similar to Chiesa di San Francesco
- Other Hotels near Chiesa di San Francesco, Sorrento City Centre
- Hotels near popular Sorrento Attractions
- Expedia's Latest Trends
- Hotels near Mount Vesuvius
- Hotels near Piazza Tasso
- Hotels near Herculaneum
- Hotels near Corso Italia
- Hotels near Pompeii Archaeological Park
- Hotels near Amalfi Beach
- Hotels near Marina Grande
- Hotels near Sorrento Marina
- Hotels near Amalfi Harbour
- Hotels near Amalfi Cathedral
- Hotels near Positano Ferry Landing
- Hotels near Atrani Beach
- Hotels near Marina Grande Beach
- Hotels near Blue Grotto
- Hotels near Fiordo di Furore Beach
- Hotels near Fornillo Beach
- Hotels near Pompeii Forum
- Hotels near Sorrento Lift