Religious site
San Damiano, Assisi
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San Damiano is a humble Romanesque church located just outside Assisi's walls, renowned as the place where St. Francis of Assisi received his divine calling in 1205. According to tradition, while praying before the crucifix, he heard Christ say, 'Francis, go and repair my house.' The church later became the first convent of the Poor Clares, founded by St. Clare. Today, visitors can see the original crucifix that spoke to Francis, now housed in the Basilica of Santa Chiara, but a replica hangs in the church. The interior is stark and simple, with exposed stone walls, a wooden roof, and a small choir. The adjoining cloister and garden offer a peaceful space for reflection. The site also includes a small museum with artifacts from the lives of Francis and Clare. The atmosphere is deeply spiritual, drawing pilgrims from around the world.
Don't miss
- The replica of the San Damiano crucifix
- Simple Romanesque architecture with stone walls and wooden roof
- Peaceful cloister and garden
- Small museum with Franciscan artifacts
- The spot where St. Francis received his calling
Tickets & tours
Ways to visit San Damiano, Assisi
You can usually visit on your own. A tour is worth it for transport, a guide, or combining nearby sights into one day.
Cheapest way inAssisi Walking Tour with Audio and Written Guide by a Local4.3★ · 29 travelers4–5 hoursFree cancellationFrom$8 per personSee dates →
Most bookedSmall Group Tour of Assisi and St. Francis Basilica4.8★ · 211 travelers~3 hoursFree cancellationFrom$70 per personSee dates →
Private & flexibleAssisi Private Walking Tour including St. Francis Basilica5★ · 132 travelers~3 hoursFree cancellationFrom$268 per personSee dates →More attractions in Assisi