Basilica di Santa Chiara travel guide

The Basilica di Santa Chiara is a significant historical landmark situated in Santa Maria degli Angeli, Italy. This grand edifice was built between 1257 and 1265, following the death of Saint Clare, one of the followers of Saint Francis of Assisi.

The construction of the basilica was commissioned by Pope Alexander IV to serve as the final resting place for Saint Clare. The original design was in the Romanesque style, but it underwent several modifications over the centuries, including the addition of a Gothic facade and frescoes in the 14th century.

The basilica is renowned for its simplicity and elegance, reflecting the principles of the Franciscan Order. It houses the tomb of Saint Clare and valuable relics such as her clothing and a lock of her hair. The Basilica di Santa Chiara remains a place of pilgrimage for the faithful and a symbol of religious history, attracting numerous visitors each year.

The Basilica di Santa Chiara, standing majestically in the heart of Santa Maria degli Angeli, is renowned for its striking simplicity and serene ambience. The basilica's austere facade of pink and white stones, along with its large, rose window, offers a distinctive aesthetic appeal. The interior of the basilica is equally enthralling, with its bright, spacious nave and the stunning frescoes that adorn the apse. Notably, the basilica houses the tomb of Saint Clare, the founder of the Poor Clares, making it a significant pilgrimage site. The tomb, located in the crypt, is a profound symbol of humility and devotion.

The basilica's museum, the 'Museo della Basilica di Santa Chiara', stands out for its valuable collection of artifacts and relics associated with Saint Clare and Saint Francis. The museum provides a unique insight into the life and teachings of these revered figures. Furthermore, Basilica di Santa Chiara boasts an exquisite cloister, known as the 'Chiostro del Paradiso', offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The tranquil, verdant garden in the cloister adds to the overall charm and tranquility of the basilica.

Located in the dynamic Assisi, the popular Basilica di Santa Chiara is easy to find and can be explored during a short weekend escape in the beautiful town of Assisi or as a stop on your countrywide road trip through Italy.

Assisi is a perfect holiday destination for those who crave a mix of history, culture, and modern amenities. With its distinct architecture, famous museums, and delicious culinary scene, Assisi offers something for everyone.

Take a stroll through the charming streets and alleys to discover hidden gems and enjoy the local atmosphere. Visit this popular landmark in Assisi and immerse yourself in the city's rich history and culture at top attractions, including the remarkable Basilica of San Francesco d'Assisi, San Damiano, Eremo delle Carceri, Cathedral of San Rufino, and Rocca Maggiore.

Whether you're looking to indulge in shopping or explore the nightlife, Assisi has it all. Don't forget to sample the delicious cuisine, from traditional dishes to modern fusion.

Experience the best of both worlds in Assisi, a place where the past meets the present, and you'll create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

Click the travel guides below to learn more and get ready to make unforgettable memories in Italy!

Basilica di Santa Chiara is conveniently accessible by various transportation options in Assisi, Italy. If you're flying in, San Francesco d Assisi Airport is approximately 5.7 miles (9.2 km) away from Assisi. From there, you can easily reach Basilica di Santa Chiara by taxi or shuttle.

For those already in Assisi, buses, taxis, and walking are viable options to reach Basilica di Santa Chiara, which is located 0.2 miles (0.3 km) from the city center. You can also rent a car and drive to Basilica di Santa Chiara, providing flexibility to explore at your leisure. Its exact address is Piazza Santa Chiara, 1, 06081 Assisi PG, Italy.

With your transportation plans sorted, get ready for an unforgettable experience at Basilica di Santa Chiara!

The best time to explore Basilica di Santa Chiara in Santa Maria degli Angeli, Italy, is during the spring months (April to June) and the fall season (September to November). During these periods, the weather in Italy is generally mild and pleasant, providing the perfect conditions for sightseeing. The summer months can be quite hot and crowded with tourists, making spring and fall more comfortable times to visit. In addition, these seasons are marked by several religious festivals such as the Feast of Saint Clare in August and the Feast of Saint Francis in October, which can add a unique cultural experience to your trip. To avoid larger crowds, consider visiting on weekdays rather than weekends. Early morning or late afternoon visits can also offer a more peaceful experience. Take note of the Basilica's opening hours, as it generally opens at 6:30 am and closes at 7:00 pm, but these times can vary depending on the time of year. Be sure to check the schedule ahead of your visit.

To truly enjoy your visit to Basilica di Santa Chiara, joining a tour that features this popular minor basilica in Assisi is highly recommended. As one of Italy's most iconic attractions, Basilica di Santa Chiara draws visitors from around the world. Booking a tour in advance allows you to skip the lines and ensures a smooth, enjoyable experience.

Find the best and most popular tours and tickets to Basilica di Santa Chiara starting at just 50 EUR below.

There's no better way to discover the wonders of Basilica di Santa Chiara and other top attractions in Assisi than with a perfectly planned holiday package! Travel packages to Assisi include everything you need to fully immerse yourself in Basilica di Santa Chiara's wonders and in the beauty and history of the region. These packages offer the perfect opportunity to delve into Basilica di Santa Chiara and experience a variety of activities and destinations tailored to suit all types of travelers.

Keep reading to discover the best travel plans and insider tips for uncovering the charm of this one-of-a-kind minor basilica in Italy.

Conveniently explore Basilica di Santa Chiara and plenty more captivating attractions in Assisi by staying at a top-rated hotel in the center of the town. With comfortable accommodations and easy access to Basilica di Santa Chiara and other notable landmarks, wake up well-rested every day, ready to explore all that Assisi has to offer.

Discover the best hotels for visiting Basilica di Santa Chiara below.

Aside from Basilica di Santa Chiara, Assisi is home to numerous other top attractions waiting to be explored. From museums and architectural masterpieces to sculptures and natural wonders, the town offers a diverse range of sights to behold. For the ultimate sightseeing tour around Assisi, there are a number of attractions every itinerary should include, namely Basilica of San Francesco d'Assisi, San Damiano, and Eremo delle Carceri.

Basilica of San Francesco d'Assisi is a bucket-list church and top attraction in Assisi, drawing numerous travelers and locals every year. As evident by its average rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars in 33,000 reviews, this attraction is a popular place to visit for anyone with time to spend in the town. The exact address of Basilica of San Francesco d'Assisi is Piazza Inferiore di S. Francesco, 2, 06081 Assisi PG, Italy.

Another appreciated attraction in Assisi is San Damiano. Like Basilica of San Francesco d'Assisi, this is one of the most popular sites to visit in the town. With an impressive average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars among 4,900 visitors, it’s also one of the highest-rated. The exact address of this church is Via San Damiano, 85, 06081 Assisi PG, Italy.

Eremo delle Carceri is also a clear favorite among travelers seeking to experience the uniqueness of Assisi. This church and top attraction in Assisi has been rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 4,900 visitors. This attraction is located at the address of Via Eremo delle Carceri, 38, 06081 Assisi PG, Italy.

Check out our full list of top attractions in the town of Assisi below.