“Repair my house.” Imagine young Francis hearing those words within the walls of what we now know as the Santuario di San Damiano. It was the year 1205. Francis was in the throes of an existential crisis. The temple was in ruin. But those words changed everything.
The Santuario di San Damiano stands as a testament to faith. It is also a place of profound historical and spiritual significance. We stand outside the city walls. Not far from Porta Nuova. Olive trees surround this tranquil place.
Francis began renovating the church. Later, in 1211, Clare moved here with other nuns. They founded the order of the Poor Ladies of San Damiano. They later became known as the Poor Clares. Clare spent 42 years here. She lived here until her death in 1253.
Inside the church, simplicity reigns. From the portico, you can enter the Chapel of San Girolamo. It features 16th-century frescoes. The nave leads to the Chapel of the Crucifix. Here, a crucifix from 1637 by Friar Innocenzo da Palermo is on display.
At the apse, admire the wooden choir from 1504. A copy of the original crucifix is visible here. The original now resides in the Basilica of Santa Chiara. Frescoes from the 14th century depict San Damiano. Also depicted are San Rufino and the Madonna and Child.
The convent offers a glimpse into the lives of the nuns. Visit the Choir of St Clare. Here, the nuns gathered to pray. Also visit the Oratory of St Clare. She retreated here for prayer. The dormitory is also viewable.
Don’t miss the Canticle Gallery. It is an exhibition space. Admire the artwork celebrating St Francis’s Canticle of the Creatures.
All the nuns slept on sacks stuffed with straw. This showed their commitment to poverty.
The friary has faced troubled times. The Italian Government confiscated it in the 1860s. It was then sold to Lord G.F.S. Robinson. Later, Lord Peter Kerr returned it to the Friars Minor in 1983. Lord Lothian wished San Damiano to remain a place of prayer. He set conditions in the deed of gift. Tourist visits are prohibited before 10 am and after 6 pm. In winter, the latter is 5 pm.
Consider the history within these walls of the Santuario di San Damiano. Think of Francis hearing the voice. Think of Clare dedicating her life. May this place inspire you to reflect on your own path.