Youth and conversion
Saint Clare, also known as Clare of Assisi, is one of the most significant figures of medieval Christianity. Born in 1193 in Assisi, Umbria, Chiara Favarone di Offreduccio comes from a noble family. However, her life takes a radical turn when, inspired by the preaching of Saint Francis of Assisi, she decides to abandon privilege and wealth to embrace a life of poverty and service to God.
The turning point in Clare's life occurred when, still very young, she heard the words of Francis of Assisi for the first time. This encounter deeply marked her soul, to the point of following his example of a poor and penitent life. In 1212, Clare secretly fled her father's house to join Francis and his followers, and was welcomed into the small chapel of Santa Maria degli Angeli, where Francis himself cut her hair as a symbol of renunciation of the world and consecration to God.
The foundation of the Poor Clares
After her escape, Clare initially settled in the Benedictine monastery of San Paolo delle Abbadesse in Bastia Umbra and later in San Damiano, where she established her community. In this place she founded the center of the new female religious order that Clare: the “Poor Ladies of San Damiano” , later known as the Poor Clares. This order, based on the principles of absolute poverty, contemplation and enclosure, was closely linked to the Franciscan movement. The Rule of Clare, written under her guidance, is in fact centered on the imitation of the poor and humble life of Christ.
Chiara dedicated her life to prayer, penance and caring for the sick. Her monastic existence was characterized by profound devotion and a strong spirit of sacrifice. Despite her physical frailty, she showed extraordinary strength of spirit, becoming a point of reference not only for her fellow nuns, but also for the entire community of Assisi.
The Legacy of Saint Clare
Saint Clare died on August 11, 1253, shortly after receiving the approval of her Rule by Pope Innocent IV. She was canonized two years later, in 1255, by Pope Alexander IV, who recognized the sanctity of her life and the importance of her work.
The legacy of Saint Clare lives on through the Poor Clares, her order, which today is spread throughout the world. The Basilica of Saint Clare in Assisi, where her remains are kept, is today one of the main places of Christian pilgrimage, a place where Franciscan spirituality continues to be lived and passed down. Her feast day is celebrated on August 11.
Iconography
Saint Clare of Assisi is often represented in Christian iconography with different symbols and attributes that reflect her life and spirituality: the Franciscan habit, a simple brown or gray habit with a white cord tied at the waist, which symbolizes the vows of poverty, chastity and obedience; the black veil that covers her head and shoulders and represents her consecration to God and monastic life. One of the most recurring attributes is the Blessed Sacrament - she is often depicted holding a tabernacle with the Eucharist - or the lily, a symbol of purity and chastity.
Are you looking for iconographies of Saint Clare ?
We offer a unique selection dedicated to the saints. Visit our site and discover the collection of statues , medals , rosaries and other products that celebrate Saint Clare and Christian spirituality.