Basilica of Saint Clare

The construction of the Basilica of Saint Clare began in 1257, shortly after the passing of the saint, transforming the site of the ancient church of San Giorgio into a monumental tribute to her life. Before this, the small church of San Giorgio had held the mortal remains of Saint Francis until his transfer to his own grand basilica in 1230. Architect Filippo da Campello designed the new structure to echo the grandeur of the upper Basilica of Saint Francis, creating a visual dialogue between the two monumental sites across the town. The church was consecrated in 1265 in the presence of Pope Clement IV, marking the culmination of a period of immense devotion. For centuries, this sacred ground served as the home for the Order of Saint Clare, known as the Clarisse, who lived in nearby San Damiano before moving into this new, protected space. The architectural choices, particularly the massive polygonal buttresses added to the left flank, were essential for stability, ensuring the building could withstand the test of time and earthquakes. Throughout the centuries, the basilica has weathered both historical shifts and natural disasters, including the devastating earthquake of 1832, which damaged many of the original frescoes. Yet, it remains a treasury of art and relics. The subterranean crypt, added in the nineteenth century, allows pilgrims and visitors to look upon the tomb of the saint, while the Oratory of the Crucifix preserves the most intimate objects from the lives of the founders. Walking through these halls is a journey into the heart of the Franciscan movement, where the legacy of Saint Clare continues to inspire quiet contemplation.