St. Francis Monastery is a 14th-century church in Erice, Sicily, built by the Friars Minor. Inside are 18th-century frescoes and wooden statues dating from the 17th and 18th centuries, though the church is usually closed to the public. A large bronze bell dedicated to St. Francis was commissioned by the friars in the 1600s. In front, a small garden gives you a quiet pause, and the attached study center has a compact museum covering photography, archaeology, religion and astronomy.
The church and its objects
The Friars Minor built the church in the 1300s. Its interior includes frescoes from the 1700s and wooden statues made in the 1600s and 1700s. The church follows a simple Franciscan style.
In the 1600s, the friars commissioned a bronze bell dedicated to St. Francis. It weighs 25 quintals.
The study center and garden
A study center is attached to the monastery. Its small museum includes photography, archaeological and religious material, and the center also studies the constellations. A garden sits in front of the church.
FAQ
Is St. Francis Monastery open to the public?
The church is usually closed, so check for a special opening before visiting.
Does the church open on December 8?
It opens for the Immaculate Conception observance, when a statue of the Madonna is carried in procession.
What can you see inside?
The church has 18th-century frescoes and wooden statues from the 17th and 18th centuries. A bronze bell dedicated to St. Francis was commissioned in the 1600s.
What is at the attached study center?
Its small museum covers photography, archaeology and religion. The center also studies the constellations.
