JBL Intellivox loudspeakers have been installed across the expansive 10,000sqm outdoor areas of Italy’s Basilica of St. Francis in Assisi – a UNESCO World Heritage Site known as the birthplace of the Franciscan movement, but also for the beautiful frescoes by Italian artist Giotto.
The integration of focused loudspeaker technology with scalable control infrastructure was intended to support both daily worship and large-scale events while preserving the historic integrity of the site, which is a major destination for religious pilgrims.
To meet the unique acoustic and preservation challenges, the installation team fitted six JBL Intellivox HP-DS370 and two HP-DS170 column loudspeakers, chosen for their beam-steering capabilities and compact form factor. Custom-coloured to blend with the basilica’s centuries-old stonework, the loudspeakers are designed to provide clear, focused coverage over distances of up to 70m while minimising reflections and spill.
BSS BLU-160 signal processing, with a BLU-DAN interface and I/O cards, manages system routing, while AMX Varia SL-50 touch panels and Muse 2300 processors provide localised control. The setup is supported by AMX N2600 Series encoders and decoders for simplified AV distribution.
The project was carried out by FP Service, with design support from Exhibo. Despite the narrow access routes and strict preservation requirements, the system was installed with minimal visual impact and full coverage of both upper and lower squares.
Giulio Cesareo, communications director at the basilica, said: “The intelligibility is really impressive. The system enhances our ability to share the message of St Francis with clarity, while remaining respectful of the basilica’s history and sacred environment.”
