General presentation of Saint Claire of Assisi
Saint Claire of Assisi, born in 1194 in Assisi, Italy, is the founder of the Order of the Poor Ladies, later known as the Poor Clares. A disciple of Saint Francis of Assisi, she shared his ideal of poverty and evangelical life. At 18, Claire renounced a noble life to follow a path of poverty and prayer. In 1212, she dedicated herself to God in the chapel of the Portiuncula and founded the monastery of San Damiano where she lived for more than 40 years. She wrote the first monastic rule for women, emphasizing absolute poverty, approved shortly before her death in 1253. Claire was canonized two years after her death and is celebrated on August 11.
Correspondence table of Saint Claire of Assisi
| Role | Founder of the Poor Clares (female Franciscan order) |
| Patronage | Television, seamstresses, embroidery workers |
| Feast | August 11 |
Symbols and appearances of Saint Claire of Assisi
Saint Claire is often depicted in Franciscan habit with a cord with three knots, symbolizing her vows. A monstrance is a common symbol in her depictions, recalling the episode where she repelled the Saracens with the Blessed Sacrament. The lily, symbol of purity, and a cross topped with an olive branch emphasize her faithfulness to Christ.
Myths of Saint Claire of Assisi
One of the most famous legends tells that during the Saracen invasion of Assisi in 1240, Claire took a monstrance and, although bedridden, went to the ramparts to pray. The enemies, intimidated, then fled without attacking the monastery. This miracle strengthened her status as protector of her order and the city of Assisi. Her life is also marked by her exceptional devotion to poverty, inspired by Saint Francis.
