Basilica di Santa Chiara

Basilica di Santa Chiara is a 13th-century church in Assisi, Umbria, closely associated with Saint Clare of Assisi. It is an important pilgrimage site because it contains the saint’s tomb and relics.

The interior contains chapels and devotional spaces arranged along a basilica plan, and the exterior is notable for its austere brickwork and a tall campanile. The building is commonly visited both for its religious significance and for its medieval architecture.

Construction of the present basilica began in the mid-13th century following the death of Saint Clare and was carried out under the auspices of her followers and the Franciscan movement. The church has been maintained and altered at intervals since the medieval period to preserve its structure and devotional functions.

The basilica stands in the lower part of Assisi’s historic centre in Umbria, within walking distance of other principal Franciscan sites in the town.

• Date and association: The basilica dates to the 13th century and is directly associated with Saint Clare of Assisi, founder of the Order of Poor Clares.

What to See #

• Tomb of Saint Clare: Contains the tomb and relics of Saint Clare, which form the principal devotional focus and are located in the basilica's interior chapels.