The Cloister Of St. Francis Of Assisi In Sorrento: A Journey Through Time

Walking through the heart of Sorrento’s historic center, you can discover one of the town’s oldest and most fascinating architectural jewels: the Cloister of St. Francis of Assisi. It is located adjacent to the church of the same name and the enchanting Villa Comunale, one of the most striking viewpoints on the Sorrento Peninsula, with breathtaking views of the Gulf of Naples and Vesuvius.

A Dive into History of the Cloister of St. Francis of Assisi

The cloister stands on the remains of a 7th-century monastery, and was built in the 14th century using materials and structures from pagan temples and archaeological excavations. This is why, looking closely at the Cloister, one can recognize different architectural and decorative styles, which give this place a unique character.

In the center of the cloister stands a tree with an oblique trunk, which often serves as a backdrop for the many weddings celebrated here. On the right, beyond the walls, you can see the tall bell tower. However, what makes the cloister really special is the set of crossed tuff and round arches that rest on octagonal columns with finely decorated capitals. If you look closely, you will see that the columns are different from each other. This diversity becomes even more pronounced and striking during sunset or early morning, when the contrast between light and shadow fills the cloister with magic.

The cloister is not only a historical site but also a vibrant cultural center. Restored in the early decades of the 20th century, it now hosts classical music concerts and events, keeping alive the tradition of a place that has always played a central role in city life. For centuries, in fact, the cloister has housed the seal of municipal writings and has seen town council meetings held.

The Church of St. Francis of Assisi

Next to the cloister, the Church of San Francesco, which dates back to the Middle Ages, represents another important piece of Sorrento’s heritage.

Despite its modern appearance, the church has a rich past, dating back to at least the 13th century with the establishment of the Franciscan order. It was during the reign of Ferdinand I and Isabella of Aragon, in the second half of the 15th century, that the church reached its peak. However, the 1688 earthquake caused significant damage, leading to restorations in the following century.

Discovering the Sorrento Peninsula

In addition to the historical and cultural beauty of the Cloister of St. Francis, the Sorrento Peninsula offers numerous other attractions that make this region a must-see destination. Sorrento itself is famous for its narrow streets filled with artisan stores, breathtaking views of the Bay of Naples, and culinary delights such as limoncello and buffalo mozzarella.

From Sorrento, it is easy to explore other charming towns on the Sorrento Peninsula or those on the Amalfi Coast, such as Positano, Amalfi and Ravello. In addition, frequent ferries leave from Sorrento for Capri, one of the world’s most famous islands, known for its Blue Grotto, Faraglioni and luxurious life.

For nature lovers, the hiking trails of the Sorrento Peninsula offer breathtaking walks along the coast, which offers spectacular views of the Tyrrhenian Sea, while the beaches are perfect for snorkeling, diving, or relaxing.

 

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