Legend of St. Francis

The frescoes in the Upper Church of San Francesco in Assisi depict scenes from the life of St. Francis of Assisi. These frescoes are considered some of the earliest known works by the renowned 14th-century Italian painter Giotto. Giotto's work marked a significant departure from the stylized forms of medieval art, introducing a new level of realism and emotional depth to painting. His innovative approach, characterized by expressive gestures and a focus on human emotion, profoundly influenced subsequent Renaissance artists. The Basilica di San Francesco itself is a lavish double church built after St. Francis's canonization in 1228, and it houses his tomb.1234