After the 1997 earthquake, the basilica sustained significant damage, particularly to the vaults of the upper and lower churches, the transepts and the bell tower. The reconstruction work began in 1999 and was completed in 2002, with the reopening of the basilica to the public on 25 September 2002. During the reconstruction, the frescoes by Giotto and Cimabue were restored, and the crypt of Saint Francis was made accessible to visitors.