San Damiano is a small church and convent near Assisi, built in the 12th century. The article names no builder or architect. A portico with three round arcades leads in, and a circular rose window sits above the central arch. Inside are a single nave, pointed barrel vaults and a deep apse with a choir. Brickwork pillars carry the portico.
According to Franciscan tradition, Francis of Assisi received a vision here in 1205 telling him to repair the church. The article presents this as tradition, not documented fact. In 1212 Clare of Assisi and her followers moved in, and it became the first monastery of the Order of Saint Clare.
Clare died on August 11, 1253, and the sisters left the site. The convent is open free of charge to the public.
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