The Basilica di Santa Chiara is a religious complex in Naples, Italy, originally constructed in the 14th century as a Poor Clare convent. Commissioned by King Robert of Anjou and Queen Sancha of Majorca, the church was built in the Provençal Gothic style, characterized by its vast, single-nave interior and lack of side chapels, which was intended to emphasize the austerity of the Franciscan order.
Following severe damage during Allied bombing raids in 1943, the church underwent a significant restoration that stripped away later Baroque additions to reveal its original medieval structure. Today, the complex is renowned for its 18th-century cloister, the Chiostro delle Clarisse, which features vibrant majolica tiles depicting pastoral scenes and mythological figures.
Key Facts
- Materials
- Tuff, Marble, Majolica tiles
- Civilization
- Angevin Kingdom of Naples
- Accessibility
- Ground level accessible, cloister includes stairs
- Date(s)
- 1310-1340
- Condition
- Restored after 1943 bombing
- Original Function
- Convent church and royal mausoleum
- Key Figures
- King Robert of Anjou, Queen Sancha of Majorca, Giotto di Bondone
Foundation and Gothic Origins
1310-1340The complex was founded by King Robert of Anjou and Queen Sancha of Majorca. It was designed as a double monastery housing both Poor Clares and Franciscan friars, serving as the primary royal mausoleum for the Angevin dynasty.
Baroque Transformation
17th-18th centuryDuring the Baroque period, the interior was heavily modified with stucco work, frescoes, and a new ceiling, obscuring the original Gothic architecture. The famous majolica-tiled cloister was also added during this era.
Destruction and Restoration
1943-1953The basilica was devastated by fire following an Allied bombing raid in 1943. Post-war restoration efforts focused on removing the Baroque layers to restore the church to its original 14th-century Gothic appearance.