About
The impressive religious structure with bands of pink and white Mount Subasio stone dominates the 19th-century Piazza di Santa Chiara, which offers an amazing view of the Umbrian valley.
Construction on the Basilica di Santa Chiara started in 1257, four years after the Saint's passing. The Church of San Giorgio was integrated into the new structure. In 1255, Pope Alexander IV granted the Chiesa di San Giorgio to the Poor Clares of the city, who were seeking a residence for their religious community. When the Church was nearly finished in 1260, St. Clare's body was deposited beneath the high altar. The Upper Basilica di San Francesco served as an inspiration for the architecture.
