The original crucifix that spoke to St. Francis is now housed in the Basilica of St. Clare; a copy hangs in the San Damiano chapel.
The Canticle of the Sun was composed by St. Francis while he was staying at San Damiano in 1225.
St. Clare was buried here for two years before her remains were moved to the Basilica of St. Clare in Assisi.
The dormitory area still contains the original wooden choir stalls used by the Poor Clares in the 13th century.
The friary's layout preserves the strict cloistered architecture typical of the Poor Clares' early rule.
San Damiano is a 12th-century stone church and friary located just outside the walls of Assisi, Italy. It is historically significant as the site where St. Francis of Assisi experienced his conversion in 1205 when he heard the crucifix command him to repair the church. The site served as the first monastery for St. Clare and the Poor Clares, who lived here for over four decades. The current complex features a cloister, a refectory, a dormitory, and the original oratory where St. Clare lived and died. Much of the interior preserves 13th and 14th-century frescoes, including those by Eusebio da San Giorgio. The site remains an active sanctuary managed by the Order of Friars Minor. It offers a largely unchanged view of the medieval Umbrian landscape as it appeared during the time of the founders.
The central cloister courtyard provides the most iconic view of the stone architecture and flowers.
The walk down from the city center is steep; wear comfortable walking shoes.
Maintain absolute silence inside the sanctuary, as it remains an active religious site.
The garden area offers excellent views of the Assisi valley and is ideal for quiet reflection.
Do not attempt to enter the cloistered living quarters that are marked as restricted or private.
The sanctuary closes for a midday break every day; the facility typically observes liturgical hours.
Shoulders and knees must be covered; hats should be removed inside the sanctuary.
