Blessed Bernardo da Quintavalle’s House: A Treasure of Faith and Franciscan History

Discovering the House of Blessed Bernardo da Quintavalle in Assisi

History and Significance of a Sacred Place

The House of Blessed Bernardo da Quintavalle, located in the picturesque town of Assisi, holds crucial importance in the history of Franciscanism. It was the birthplace of Bernardo da Quintavalle, a key figure as the first companion of St. Francis of Assisi. Historical documents, such as a 16th-century pilgrim’s guide, attest that this house was a privileged destination for Franciscan pilgrims, along with ten other churches in and around Assisi. The guide describes the house as the “House of Messer Bernardo Quintavalle, where St. Francis, while praying, uttered these words: Deus meus et omnia,” recalling how Bernardo, inspired by these words, abandoned everything to follow Francis, becoming his first brother.

Bernardo da Quintavalle, in addition to being St. Francis’s first disciple, was a man of great faith and integrity. His decision to leave all worldly possessions behind to embrace a life of poverty and service to others is a powerful example of conversion and dedication. His figure, often overshadowed by St. Francis’s fame, deserves to be rediscovered and celebrated as a testament to total adherence to the Gospel.

Description of the House and Its Spiritual Value

The house, originally part of a Romanesque structure, was later incorporated into the 17th-century Palazzo Sbaraglini. Inside, a room has been transformed into an oratory, reflecting the deep spirituality that permeates this place. A commemorative plaque on the building’s facade recalls the pivotal event between St. Francis and Bernardo: “Hic S. Franciscum ad coenam et cubiculum Bernardus Quintavallis excepit et in extasim vidit”, meaning “Here Bernardo da Quintavalle welcomed St. Francis to his table, hosted him, and saw him in ecstasy.” This encounter marked the beginning of Bernardo’s discipleship to Francis, making him the first Franciscan friar.

The plaque invites reflection on the power of an encounter and the ability to transform a life. It echoes St. Francis’s call and Bernardo’s generous response—an echo that still resonates today for all who visit this place.

Exploring the House: A Journey Through Faith and History

Visiting Bernardo da Quintavalle’s House is an immersive experience in Franciscan history and spirituality. Although it is now a private property, the facade and commemorative plaque continue to attract pilgrims and visitors eager to connect with the origins of the Franciscan movement. Imagine walking the same streets that St. Francis and Bernardo once trod, hearing the echoes of their prayers and conversations.

Adventurous research ideas: While access to the interior is limited, you can deepen your knowledge of St. Francis and Blessed Bernardo’s lives by visiting other Franciscan sites in Assisi, such as the Basilica of St. Francis, the Porziuncola, and the Hermitage of the Carceri. In these places, you can fully immerse yourself in the atmosphere of spirituality and simplicity that characterized the lives of St. Francis and his early companions. Look for clues about their lives in the artworks within the basilicas and try to envision their daily lives.

Year of establishment: 1226

Object of veneration: Not classifiable as an image or relic

Key Facts and Curiosities

On the night St. Francis stayed with Bernardo, it is said that the saint was seen in ecstasy, levitating off the ground while fervently praying, repeating: “Deus meus et omnia” (My God and all). This episode was decisive for Bernardo’s conversion, leading him to renounce all wealth and follow Francis. In the 18th century, the site became the seat of the secular confraternity of St. Lawrence.

Today, though privately owned and no longer an official pilgrimage destination, Bernardo da Quintavalle’s House remains a powerful symbol of the origins of Franciscanism and an invitation to reflect on the meaning of faith and renunciation. It is a hidden treasure in the heart of Assisi, waiting to be rediscovered and cherished.

06081 Assisi, Province of Perugia, Italy