Saint Francis and the Franciscans in San Fermo Maggiore: thematic guided tours

In the context of the Franciscan year 2026, with the eighth centenary of the death of Saint Francis of Assisi (October 3, 1226), and after the spring sell-out, the Living Churches Association proposes a series of thematic guided tours of the Church of San Fermo Maggiore, the church richest in Franciscan-themed artwork in Verona.

Six dates, from September to November, to discover the beauty of one of Verona's historical churches that houses numerous artworks with a Franciscan theme, including one of the oldest frescoes of the saint (circa 1280) in the lower church, fourteenth-century frescoes in the Gothic section, the Brenzoni mausoleum, and Franciscan painting cycles, making it the richest church artistically in the city.

The history of San Fermo is an extraordinary testimony over the centuries of devotion to the martyr saints Fermo and Rustico, who were killed in a.d. 304 along the banks of the Adige River. Their story is well narrated in the bronze bas-reliefs that decorate the portal, a work from 1997 by the master Luciano Minguzzi. The church represents a refined example of the Gothic style widespread in Italy by the Order of Friars Minor, and it presents a unique case for referencing French architecture, especially in the upper part of the building, with unusual spires and pinnacles in the cityscape.

Advance booking is required.