Basilica di San Francesco

People keep asking me what is so special about this “game” called Second Life. It’s really hard to explain. It’s not really a game, it’s a virtual world where you can find almost anything, do almost anything, make friends, and just have incredible adventures.

Although I’m not Catholic, I still have a favorite saint, St. Francis of Assisi. Someday I’d like to go to Italy to see his chapel and crypt. The Basilica di San Fransesco is built around them. I was able to visit the Basilica last night in a beautiful 3d rendition in Second Life. I had a wonderful time and had the place almost to myself.

You teleport in to a reception area just outside the gates. There’s some free information to pick up, or you can buy a tour guide. Hmm… just like real life. You enter into a large courtyard area and proceed to the faithfully rendered basilica. From there you can go up stairs, down stairs, or where ever you take a notion and wander around to your hearts content.

I got lost once or twice. No problem, just teleport back to the reception area and start exploring again. I was able to find the original chapel down on one of the lower levels, but I didn’t find the crypt. I’ll be going back to visit often and will probably end up buying a guide book so as I’m wandering I’ll know more about what I’m seeing. Maybe with the guide book I’ll find the crypt.

If you manage to find your way out one of the back doors, you may find the bike path which will take you through a lovely manicured landscape. You’ll come to a gift shop where you can buy some souvenirs. Nearby there’s also a bicycle shop. Pop in and get a free bike to add to your inventory. If you can’t find the back door, teleport out of the basilica and fly around to the back side and you’ll probably be able to find it that way.

I give it two thumbs up and highly recommend a visit.

website, slurl