San Damiano (Assisi)
Santuario di San Damiano
The small church where Saint Francis heard the cross speak to him and began his mission to rebuild it. Saint Clare lived here for over 40 years, and the atmosphere is calm and simple.
San Damiano lies among the olive groves south of Assisi's old town. Tradition holds that in 1205, while praying in this dilapidated little church, Saint Francis heard the crucifix say to him, “Rebuild my church,” which set him on his religious path. Later, Saint Clare and her nuns lived here in seclusion until her death, and the “Canticle of the Sun” is said to have been composed here. The simple church, the nuns’ quarters and a small cloister survive and preserve their 13th-century appearance. Entry is free. It is open about 10:00–12:00 and 14:00–18:00. From the Porta Nuova, it is a 15–20-minute walk along an olive-grove path.
Opening hours
Approx. 10:00–12:00, 14:00–18:00
Nearby sights
- Basilica of Saint Clare
- Assisi Cathedral (San Rufino)
- Piazza del Comune & Temple of Minerva
- Rocca Maggiore (Assisi)
- Basilica of Saint Francis of Assisi
- Eremo delle Carceri & Monte Subasio
- Basilica of Santa Maria degli Angeli
- Spello