Editorial photo #13670702 Religion and Belief

Basilica Of La Verna Franciscan Sanctuary With Arched Portico And Bell Tower, Tuscany

A Renaissance fresco depicting the stigmatization of St. Francis of Assisi is seen in the covered loggia of the Sanctuary of La Verna, Arezzo, Tuscany, Italy, on April 9, 2026. The composition shows Francis kneeling in his brown Franciscan habit in a wooded landscape, arms raised in ecstasy, as a seraph -- a winged Christ-like figure radiating golden light -- descends from above, with five red rays connecting to the saint's hands, feet, and side. A second figure meditates in a rocky recess at right. Gilded Corinthian pilasters frame the scene, which commemorates the mystical event of September 14, 1224, that occurred on this mountain. (Photo by Matteo Della Torre/NurPhoto)