San Damiano cross

Also known as: Franciscan cross

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July 21, 2026

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The San Damiano cross is a large, painted wooden crucifix that is historically significant to St. Francis of Assisi and the Franciscan order. According to tradition, it was before this cross in the ruined chapel of San Damiano that Francis heard a voice commanding him to "repair my house."12

This event marked a pivotal moment in Francis's life, leading him to renounce his worldly possessions and dedicate himself to a life of poverty and service. The cross itself is an icon of the Franciscan movement and is housed in the Basilica di Santa Chiara in Assisi, Italy. The San Damiano cross is not to be confused with the San Francesco monastery and church in Assisi, which was built after St. Francis's canonization and contains frescoes by renowned artists.1

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St. Francis of Assisi
Early life and career
…Assisi when Francis heard the crucifix above the altar command him: “Go, Francis, and repair my house which, as you see, is well-nigh in ruins.” Taking this literally, Francis hurried home, gathered some fine cloth from his father’s shop, and rode off to the nearby town of Foligno, where he…
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…Assisi when Francis heard the crucifix above the altar command him: “Go, Francis, and repair my house which, as you see, is well-nigh in ruins.” Taking this literally, Francis hurried home, gathered some fine cloth from his father’s shop, and rode off to the nearby town of Foligno, where he…
Read More