Church of the ex-Conservatory of Santa Chiara, San Gimignano

Nestled within the San Gimignano Civic Museums complex, the Church of the ex‑Conservatory of Santa Chiara occupies a significant place in the town's architectural tapestry. Originally, from 1498, the site was home to the Hospital of Santa Croce, which later, in 1500, welcomed the relocations of the Clarisse nuns of Santa Chiara. By the 1700s, the institution had been transformed into a female conservatory, reflecting its dual role as both spiritual refuge and educational home. In more recent times, the building was acquired by the municipality and thoughtfully converted into a museum space, giving new life to its historic walls.

What makes this church particularly remarkable is its neoclassical interior, the only one of its kind in the town. The vaulted ceiling is embellished with ornate stuccoes, and carefully preserved 19th‑century paintings by the Florentine artist Luigi Catani adorn the space, offering a vivid glimpse into later artistic trends mingled with sacred space.

Beyond its architectural importance, the church’s former cloister and convent have become fertile ground for cultural discovery. Several notable artworks that once resided here-such as a Madonna and Child with Saints by Memmo di Filippuccio-now enrich the Civic Museum’s collection.