Chiesa di Santa Chiara (St. Chiara Church), Lecce

The Church of Santa Chiara is situated in the historical center of Lecce, in Vittorio Emanuele II Square. Its construction dates back to 1429, commissioned by Bishop Tommaso Ammirato. However, between 1687 and 1691, the church underwent extensive renovations led by architect Giuseppe Cino.

The façade of the church has a convex shape and is divided into two sections. The lower section features a decorated portal with plant motifs. Above the portal, there is an oval niche supported by smiling angels, displaying the coat of arms of the Poor Clares. The upper section of the façade repeats the arrangement of niches and pilasters, with a large central window and a tympanum with lateral volutes.

The church has an elongated octagonal plan, with a deep presbytery covered by a star vault. The walls are divided into two sections by a serrated cornice. The lower section features Corinthian pilasters and short chapels that house elaborate altarpieces.

The altars are intricately decorated with twisted columns adorned with angels, birds, scrolls, garlands, and sculptures. They hold wooden statues from the late 17th century, depicting various saints. There are seven large windows with a mixtilinear profile, alternating with niches containing statues of the Blessed Beatrice, Agnese, Amata, and Ortolana.

The presbytery stands out with its grand high altar, featuring architectural elements and two twisted columns, housing the statue of Saint Clare of Assisi in the central niche. Of special note is the presence of the canvas of Sant'Agnese by artist Francesco Solimena, located near the altar of San Francesco d'Assisi.