S.Maria Maggiore's Church

Built on the site of a former Christian temple that had in turn been converted from a Roman place of worship. Roman remains are on display in the crypt, including capitals and walls. The faded frescoes date back to the same period. The church was a cathedral up until the 11^{th century, that is until the Church of S. Rufino was opened. The stone facade, with its two entrances, is rather simple apart from two vertical fascia and a pretty rose-window to the centre. The church was renovated in the 12th century, and its present appearance dates back to that time. The bell tower was constructed in the 14th century. St. Francis was baptised in this church. Inside, there are three aisles: perhaps at one time the interior was completely frescoed, although very little remains of these works now. A few yards away lies the Bishop’s Palace, where St. Francis renounced his father’s possessions before Guido II.}

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