800 Years of Santa Clara in Cortona

2025: Eight Centuries of History, Faith, and Community in Cortona

In 2025, Cortona celebrates an extraordinary milestone: 800 years of the presence of the Sorelle Clarisse. A story that began in 1225, when Suor Lucia, a companion of Chiara d’Assisi, was granted the land where the first settlement was established. From that moment on, the Sorelle Clarisse became a living and integral part of the city’s identity.

A journey spanning eight centuries

From their earliest medieval dwellings to their relocation in the 16th century to the monastery designed by Giorgio Vasari, the Sorelle Clarisse have lived through centuries of transformation and challenge. Suppressions, crises, and historical changes never broke their bond with Cortona, and they have remained a spiritual and cultural cornerstone of the local community.

Centenary celebrations

To honor this remarkable legacy, the Monastero has organized a rich program of events:

• Mostra documentaria
  A fascinating journey through parchments, papal privileges, and previously unpublished manuscripts, displayed across three symbolic venues:
  • MAEC (Museo dell’Accademia Etrusca)
  • Chiesa di San Francesco
  • Monastero di Santa Chiara
  (Visitors are advised to check opening hours at each venue)

• Volume commemorativo
  An elegant illustrated catalogue featuring essays by scholars and rare images from the monastery’s historical and artistic heritage.

• Conferenze e incontri
  A series of public events exploring the Franciscan legacy with scholars and academics.

A collaborative effort

This important anniversary is the result of a shared effort between the Monastero, the Comune di Cortona (within the “Cortona Francescana” project), the Accademia Etrusca, the Diocesi, and prestigious academic institutions such as the Pontificia Università Antonianum.