Saint Clare of Assisi was the most famous of Saint Francis' proteges. Turning her back on a life of luxury as the daughter of a wealthy family, Clare chose poverty and devotion to God. The tiny chapel and convent of San Damiano became the centre of Clare's new religious order, which was known in her lifetime as the "Order of Poor Ladies of San Damiano". The town of Assisi still pays homage to Clare's life of devotion and acts of charity.
Italians can squeeze into the tightest parking spaces and are confident whizzing through the narrow streets of their ancient towns, so travelers are wise to walk and park with caution.