Built towards the mid-17th century as a convent to house the daughters of Gorizia nobles preparing for monastic life, it originally occupied a much larger area than it does today.

The building still features a three-story structure arranged around the central cloister. On the side that now faces Corso Verdi, the church and bell tower once stood, later incorporated into one of the repeated renovations the complex underwent during the 19th century, after it lost its religious function in 1782, following the suppressions ordered by Emperor Joseph II.

Long used as a barracks, the monastery complex has recently undergone major renovations. Today, in addition to being used partly as a university campus, it houses the "Museo di Santa Chiara," a venue for events and exhibitions.