Church of Santa Chiara

Built between 1659 and 1661 at the initiative of the Poor Clare nuns, the church was originally part of their ancient monastery overlooking the Cassero. Within a few years, the choir, sacristy, and dormitory were completed, and the first Mass was celebrated in August 1661.

Over time, the complex underwent several transformations: in 1785 it became a conservatory, while after the Grand Ducal suppressions of 1793 it was enriched with numerous works of art from churches and confraternities in the area, thanks to local benefactors such as brothers Paolo Girolamo and Anton Filippo Galletti, and later Gian Francesco Gamurrini.

Inside are remarkable masterpieces: two glazed terracotta works by the Della Robbia school depicting Saint Anthony Abbot and an Adoration of the Shepherds; two altarpieces by Andrea Sansovino (Saint Lawrence with Saints Sebastian and Roch and Madonna and Child with Saints); and a fine 18th-century organ. Since 1999, the church has been owned by the Italian State, which preserves its beauty and memory.