Cloître des Clarisses de Santa Chiara, Franciscan cloister in Naples, Italy.
The cloister is a Franciscan convent in Naples with two perpendicular covered walkways supported by octagonal pillars. The passages open onto a central garden planted with citrus trees, and nearly every surface including walls and benches features blue and yellow ceramic tile decoration with pastoral and floral designs.
Construction began in 1310 and was completed by the 1340s, establishing the Gothic foundations of the complex. A major renovation in 1742 under architect Domenico Antonio Vaccaro introduced the Baroque style that defines its current appearance.
The name refers to Saint Clare of Assisi, founder of the Poor Clare order that once lived here. Today visitors can observe how the colorful tile decorations and ceramic benches reflect the daily rhythm of monastic life.
The cloister sits in Naples' historic center and is easily reached on foot, with parking and public transit nearby. Morning visits are recommended since it becomes crowded during midday and heat can be intense in summer months.
The octagonal pillars and crossing pathways were intentionally designed to create symbolic reference to the crucifixion. This architectural symbolism was common in monastic design and helped residents embody their spiritual practice through movement in the space.
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