Franciscans for culture

Come and discover with us, the Franciscan Friars Conventual of the Italian Province of St. Anthony, the rich artistic and cultural heritage that we passionately preserve.

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Events

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Conferences, concerts, exhibitions, study days, guided tours, and special openings of Franciscan sites: join us on this journey filled with culture and spirituality.

Tau ocra con dentro immagine di san Francesco e scritta
Franciscan Jubilee 1226–2026

In 2026, throughout Italy, we celebrate the 800th anniversary of the Transitus of Francis of Assisi, one of the most emblematic figures in Italy’s spiritual and cultural history. A rich programme of events brings together art, music, and opportunities for reflection. Discover all the initiatives offered by our Franciscan Province.

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Anthony of Padua, Thomas Gallus and the Victorine tradition

Study Seminar. Padua, Basilica, 21–22 September 2026

Organized by the Centro Studi Antoniani, the seminar is the third in a series of in-depth meetings focusing on the historical figure of Saint Anthony, in preparation for the 2031 Centenary.

The seminar will explore the relationship between Brother Anthony and Thomas of St. Victor (Thomas Gallus). A canon and abbot of the monastery of Sant’Andrea in Vercelli, and a commentator on the texts of Dionysian apophatic theology, Thomas knew the Franciscan friar personally and left a first-hand account of Anthony’s mystical dimension.

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En Route with Saint Anthony

The great 1,306 km jubilee route with the relic of the Saint is presented, from 29 June to 21 September, along the roads travelled by Saint Anthony 800 years ago.

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Cycling with Saint Anthony

A new cycle route of over 250 km links the Sanctuary of Gemona with the Basilica of the Saint, amid nature, villages, and spirituality.

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International Summer School in Dante Studies

The Summer School is promoted by the Catholic University, the University of Verona, and the Dante Centre of Ravenna. It aims to offer an up‑to‑date critical and scholarly overview of Dante’s work through an interdisciplinary approach and direct contact with renowned national and international scholars.

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The Saint for Schools

The Basilica offers a unique opportunity to enrich the educational path of children and young people through educational itineraries designed specifically for schools of all levels (from preschool to lower secondary school).

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“Francis longed to possess

the wisdom that is better than gold.”

Tommaso da Celano

Churches and places

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Discover the churches and monumental complexes of the Italian Province of Saint Anthony of Padova, on a journey rich in faith, art and culture.

Cultural Institutes

Centers dedicated to the conservation and enhancement of the Franciscan heritage.

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Monuments

Historic places that tell centuries of faith, art and Franciscan tradition.

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Pastoral with art

Spiritual paths where art becomes a vehicle of faith and contemplation.

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Who we are

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1181

Birth of Saint Francis
Francis was born in Assisi into a wealthy family and, after a youth devoted to studies and artistic pursuits, he took up a career in trade, following in his father’s footsteps.

1221

Birth of Saint Anthony of Padova
Anthony, baptized with the name Fernando, was born in Lisbon in Portugal.

1223

The journey of Francis
After leaving his family, Francis, together with some companions, embarked on a Gospel‑based way of life founded on humility, poverty and brotherhood, dedicating himself to those in need and spreading Christ’s message.

1227

The first Province
The Order grew rapidly and expanded into various regions of Italy and Europe. Francis established the first Province in northern Italy.

1231

Saint Anthony of Padova joins the Franciscan Order
Originally a member of the Order of Canons Regular of Saint Augustine, Fernando de Buglione entered the Franciscan Order after hearing of the martyrdom of five friars in Morocco and changed his name to Anthony.

1232

Anthony as Minister Friar
Anthony (Lisbon 1195 – Padova 1231) was Minister of the first Province of northern Italy.

2013

Birth of the Italian Province of Saint Anthony of Padova
The Italian Province of Saint Anthony of Padova was established, bringing together the pre‑existing Padovana Province of Saint Anthony and Bolognese Province of Saint Anthony. This represents a return to the origins, restoring the structure of the 1217 Province as desired by Francis himself.