The Emblem of the Franciscans

Walking Tours of Florence

A Pair of Crossed Arms: Emblem of the Franciscans

---

The church of Santa Croce belongs to the Franciscans, and prominently displayed on the facade is the order's emblem, which takes the form of two crossed arms and a cross. 

The right arm represents that of Christ, the left that of Saint Francis of Assisi. Saint Francis's arm is enclosed in a sleeve, representing the habit he and his followers wore, while Christ's arm is bare. The palm of each hand is usually marked with a small cross or wound. In some rare cases, the hands are nailed directly to the cross. 

---

Santa Croce

Santa Croce