Chiesa di San Francesco d'Assisi (Church of Saint Francis of Assisi), Palermo

The Church of Saint Francis of Assisi, known locally as San Francesco d'Assisi, stands as a significant Renaissance-era building in Palermo and serves as the principal Conventual Franciscan church of Sicily. It holds the prestigious title of Minor Basilica, a designation bestowed by Pope Pius XI in 1924.

The Franciscans first arrived in Sicily in 1224, but faced opposition from local clergy and Saracens, leading to their temporary expulsion. They regained a foothold with the support of Pope Gregory IX, establishing a new convent in 1235, though this structure was later destroyed by Frederick II in 1239 due to conflicts with the Pope. By 1255, under the leadership of Ruffino Gorgone da Piacenza, a chaplain of Pope Alexander IV, the Franciscans solidified their presence. The church was reconstructed, this time under the supervision of Roger, the bishop of Malta. The main portal and anterior façade, both in the distinctive Chiaramontan-Gothic style, were completed by 1302.

During the 15th century, the church was further embellished with several chapels in Gothic and Renaissance styles. Among these, the Chapel Mastrantonio is notable as the earliest example of Renaissance architecture in Sicily. However, the church's structure was significantly challenged over the centuries, particularly during a severe earthquake on March 5, 1823, which necessitated extensive Neoclassical restoration.

Further damages during World War II air raids and subsequent restorations led to a melding of architectural styles, predominantly Gothic and Sicilian Baroque, giving the church its current unique appearance. Today, the Church of Saint Francis of Assisi remains a vital part of Palermo's religious landscape, notably housing the Simulacrum of the Immaculate Conception. This revered icon is central to the annual procession on December 8, celebrating the Immaculate Conception through the historic streets of Palermo.