Every year, millions of tourists from all over the world visit Italy’s religious sites. Although one needn’t even be religious to appreciate what Italy’s most beautiful churches offer. So from north to south, from monumental-sized structures to tiny churches, here is my list of favorites.

Basilica di San Francesco d’Assisi, Assisi, Umbria

Since 1230, the Basilica di San Francesco has housed the remains of the patron saint of Italy, St. Francis. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Saint himself indicated where he wanted to be buried when he passed. Although Francis recommended the construction of a very humble church, the sizable Basilica was built in his honor instead.