Basilica di Santa Chiara, Assisi

Basilica in Assisi

Basilica di Santa Chiara Piazza Santa Chiara Assisi

CC BY-SA 4.0 / Fczarnowski

Standing gracefully at the eastern edge of Assisi's historic center, the Basilica di Santa Chiara is both a spiritual sanctuary and a poignant reminder of faith's quiet strength. Consecrated in 1265, it honors Saint Clare - one of Saint Francis's earliest followers and the founder of the Poor Clares. Her story of renouncing wealth and privilege to embrace a life of humility still echoes through the basilica's peaceful halls. With its soft pink Subasio stone and sweeping views over the Umbrian Valley, it's one of the must-see places in Assisi for those seeking to connect with the city's sacred past.

While it may lack the grandeur of the Basilica of Saint Francis, Santa Chiara captivates through its simplicity and atmosphere. Its interior reveals centuries of devotion and artistic heritage, with fresco fragments that survived centuries of alteration and a crypt that preserves the saint's remains. This church is often visited on walking tours of Assisi and offers an experience that blends history, art, and deep spirituality.

History and Significance of Basilica di Santa Chiara
Things to See and Do in Basilica di Santa Chiara
How to Get There
Practical Tips on Visiting Basilica di Santa Chiara
Is Basilica di Santa Chiara Worth Visiting?
Nearby Attractions to Basilica di Santa Chiara

History and Significance of Basilica di Santa Chiara

Built upon the site of the ancient Church of San Giorgio - where Saint Francis was once educated and canonized - the Basilica di Santa Chiara was consecrated in 1265. Its construction reflected the city's gratitude toward Clare, whose steadfast faith had helped sustain the Franciscan movement after Francis's death. Designed in a Gothic-Umbrian style, the church's pink and white stone façade mirrors the landscape of Assisi, while its rose window adds a note of understated beauty.

In 1351, the addition of buttresses ensured the church’s stability after structural concerns arose, giving it a distinctive and recognizable silhouette. Inside, the basilica once featured vibrant frescoes that were largely removed in the 17th century under Bishop Spader’s order, due to fears of moral distraction. Yet some fragments of Sienese frescoes survived, including remarkable scenes from the “Apocalypse” and “Life of Christ,” likely created by an artist in Giotto’s circle. The result is an interior that feels contemplative and pure - true to Clare’s own ideals.

Below the main church, a Baroque-style crypt holds the relics and body of Saint Clare, rediscovered in 1850 after centuries of secrecy. The Oratorio del Crocifisso chapel contains the Byzantine Crucifix that famously spoke to Saint Francis, instructing him to “Repair my Church.” For pilgrims, this connection between the two saints makes Santa Chiara one of Assisi’s most spiritually resonant sites.

Things to See and Do in Basilica di Santa Chiara

Visitors to the basilica can explore both its upper and lower levels, each offering a unique glimpse into Assisi’s history. The main nave, bathed in soft light, showcases frescoes illustrating scenes from the life of Saint Clare, as well as a 13th-century Crucifix suspended above the altar. The north transept features “Genesis” scenes, while the south transept contains vivid depictions of the “Apocalypse” - remnants of a grand artistic program from the basilica’s early days.

The Oratorio del Crocifisso is one of the top attractions in Assisi, drawing those who wish to see the wooden crucifix that inspired Saint Francis's spiritual mission. The crypt, meanwhile, houses Saint Clare's tomb, surrounded by relics including her veil and a small tunic said to have belonged to Francis himself. Outside, the panoramic terrace offers sweeping views across the Umbrian countryside, making this spot one of the best places to visit in Assisi for both contemplation and photography.

How to Get There

The nearest major airport is Perugia San Francesco d'Assisi Airport, located about 20 minutes from Assisi. From the airport, travellers can reach the town by taxi, rental car, or pre-booked shuttle transfer. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Assisi on Booking.com.

The Basilica di Santa Chiara is located at the eastern end of Assisi's old town, just a short walk downhill from Piazza del Comune. Visitors arriving by train can alight at Assisi railway station and take a local bus or taxi to the upper town. Those driving can park at Piazza Giovanni Paolo II or Porta Nuova Car Park, both within easy walking distance of the basilica. The walk itself, through medieval streets lined with artisan shops, is part of the charm of visiting this sacred site.

Practical Tips on Visiting Basilica di Santa Chiara

Best time to visit Basilica di Santa Chiara: Early morning or late afternoon for quieter visits and gentle lighting.
Entrance fee in Euros: Free.
Opening hours: 6:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. and 2:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. (varies by season).
Official website: www.comune.assisi.pg.it
How long to spend: 45 minutes to 1 hour.
Accessibility: Moderate; ramps available, but crypt access involves stairs.
Facilities: Small gift shop and restrooms nearby.
Photography tip: Capture the rose window and buttresses at sunset for dramatic contrast.
Guided tours: Available through Assisi walking tours and pilgrimage routes.
Nearby food options: Trattoria Pallotta and Osteria Piazzetta dell’Erba are nearby for traditional Umbrian dishes.

Is Basilica di Santa Chiara Worth Visiting?

Without question. The Basilica di Santa Chiara is one of the top sights in Assisi, offering a moving blend of history, art, and devotion. It provides not only a window into the life of Saint Clare but also a serene counterpoint to the grandeur of Saint Francis's basilica. Its atmosphere of humility and quiet faith resonates deeply with all who enter, making it a place that lingers in the memory long after you leave.

Nearby Attractions to Basilica di Santa Chiara

Piazza del Comune - The lively main square surrounded by Assisi's civic landmarks.
Chiesa Nuova - Built on the birthplace of Saint Francis, rich in Franciscan history.
Temple of Minerva - A Roman-era temple now serving as a Baroque church.
Rocca Maggiore - The city's medieval fortress with sweeping views over Assisi.
Basilica of Saint Francis - The world-renowned pilgrimage site housing Giotto's masterpieces.

What Other Travellers Say...

Reviews Summary

4.8 (12,708)

Basilica di Santa Chiara, on Piazza Santa Chiara in Assisi, is a 13th‑century church notable for its pink-and-white façade and as the resting place of Saint Clare beneath the main altar; visitors describe a peaceful, contemplative interior with notable artworks and sculptures, a strong spiritual atmosphere and rules about modest dress and restricted photography, and the piazza offers pleasant views of the surrounding Umbrian valley.

DV Photography

a week ago

"This was my first time visiting the Basilica di Santa Chiara, and I found it to be a truly beautiful place, full of history and a strong spiritualatmosphere. I also attended the Sunday Mass, which was a meaningful and peaceful experience. However, it is a real shame that taking photos inside is not allowed. For such an important and stu ing basilica, many visitors would like to capture memories of the interior, especially when visiting for the first time. Because of this restriction, despite how much I appreciated the visit, I’m giving 1 star instead of 5...."

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Josey V Robert

5 months ago

"The Basilica of Saint Clare is dedicated to and contains the remains of Clare of Assisi. Follower of Francis of Assisi. A beautiful and amazingchurch for worship. The remains of the Saint kept under the main Altar. Visitors to wear modest dress. The Feast of Saint Clare is celebrated on 11 August...."

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jerome abou diwan

4 months ago

"Here is a 500-word review of the **Basilica of Santa Chiara** in Assisi, Italy: --- **Basilica of Santa Chiara – A Sacred Gem in the Heart ofAssisi** Nestled on the slopes of Assisi with sweeping views over the Umbrian valley, the **Basilica of Santa Chiara** (Saint Clare) is a peaceful, radiant tribute to one of the most beloved figures in Christian history. Though often overshadowed by the grand Basilica of Saint Francis just a short walk away, Santa Chiara offers its own powerful spiritual presence and architectural beauty that moves visitors in quieter, more intimate ways. Built in the mid-13th century and dedicated to **Saint Clare of Assisi**, a close follower and spiritual companion of Saint Francis, the basilica serves as both a place of worship and a physical testament to her legacy. Clare was the founder of the Order of Poor Ladies, later known as the **Poor Clares**, and she lived a life of radical poverty, humility, and service. This same simplicity is echoed in the church’s design. The façade of the basilica is striking in its understated elegance. Composed of alternating bands of pale pink and white stone from Mount Subasio, it reflects the light in soft, ethereal tones—particularly at sunrise or sunset. A large rose window adorns the front, typical of Umbrian-Gothic architecture, and the entrance is humble, yet inviting. The bell tower, added later, completes the silhouette of the church against the sky. Upon entering the basilica, the **atmosphere shifts dramatically**. It’s quiet, dimly lit, and deeply contemplative. The simplicity of the interior draws the eye and the heart toward what matters most: prayer and reflection. Frescoes adorn the walls, including some attributed to early followers of Giotto. These delicate images tell the story of Saint Clare’s life and her profound faith, adding color and warmth without overwhelming the space. The true heart of the basilica lies beneath, in the **crypt where Saint Clare’s body rests**, displayed in a glass coffin. Pilgrims and visitors alike approach with reverence. Her incorrupt body, long preserved, serves as a reminder of the depth of her devotion. Surrounding her tomb are relics of both Saint Clare and Saint Francis, including tunics, haircloths, and personal effects that humanize these legendary figures and co ect the visitor to their daily lives. Outside the basilica, the **piazza** offers a panoramic view of the Umbrian countryside, making it one of the most beautiful and tranquil spots in Assisi. Whether you're a pilgrim, a history enthusiast, or a casual traveler, sitting on the stone steps as the bells chime can be a moment of deep peace. The **Basilica of Santa Chiara** is not grand in a worldly sense, but its spiritual weight is undeniable. It embodies the Franciscan values of humility, beauty, and i er strength. In a town steeped in faith and history, this sacred space is both a monument to a powerful woman and a place where the soul can breathe. Visiting Santa Chiara is not just about seeing a church; it’s about feeling a presence—a gentle call to simplicity, compassion, and silent grace...."

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The Basilica di Santa Chiara appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Assisi!

Moira & Andy

Hey! We're Moira & Andy. From hiking the Camino to trips around Europe in Bert our campervan — we've been traveling together since retirement in 2020!

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