Basilica of San Francesco, Ravenna

The Basilica of San Francesco dates back to the year 450 when it was originally constructed by Neo, the Bishop of Ravenna. The church was dedicated to Saints Peter and Paul and was also known as the Church of the Apostles. During the latter part of the 9th century and throughout the 10th century, the original church was demolished to make way for a larger church and a tall bell tower, both of which still stand. The newly constructed church was dedicated to Saint Peter and was named San Pietro Maggiore.

In 1261, the church was handed over to the Franciscan order and rededicated to Saint Francis of Assisi. The church played a significant role in history as it hosted Dante Alighieri's funeral in 1321, and his remains still rest in the Tomb of Dante located next to the church.

Throughout the 16th to 18th centuries, the church underwent several restoration efforts and saw the addition of Baroque altars and decorations. In preparation for the 600th anniversary of Dante's death between 1918 and 1921, the church underwent a radical restoration that removed the Baroque additions and returned it to its original style. During this time, a competition was held for a new interior design scheme based on Dante's most famous work, the Divine Comedy. Adolfo De Carolis won the competition but was unable to see his scheme realized due to his untimely death.

The Crypt of the Basilica of San Francesco, located beneath the presbytery of the basilica is accessible through a double flight of stairs.

Beneath the altar, a small arched window with a protective balustrade offers a breathtaking view of the mosaic floor submerged in groundwater. The water's level in the crypt varies depending on rainfall and sea level. It's important to note that the water here is not from the sea but rather filtered fresh water, as evidenced by the presence of dozens of goldfish swimming gracefully among the colorful mosaic patterns.

The mosaics that adorn the crypt's floor are of great historical significance, dating back to the late ancient period, specifically the 5th century AD. These mosaics underwent restoration in 1877 to preserve their beauty and historical value. Among these mosaics, one can find two inscriptions, one in Greek and one in Latin, adding to the historical richness of this unique underground space.