Basilica di Santa Chiara, Assisi

Basilica in Assisi

Basilica Di Santa Chiara Piazza Santa Chiara 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.

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

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