VISIT THE BASILICA OF SAINT-FRANÇOIS-LE-GRAND

A major religious monument

Built in the 18th century on the orders of Charles III, the Basilica of San Francisco el Grande is an impressive example of Spanish neoclassical architecture. It belongs to the Franciscan order and boasts a majestic dome measuring 33 metres in diameter and 58 metres high.

Why visit?

The interior houses a rich artistic collection: paintings by Goya, Zurbarán and Maella, as well as splendid chapels decorated with marble and gilding. The basilica is also renowned for its exceptional acoustics, making it an ideal venue for sacred music concerts.

A brief history and anecdotes

Legend has it that Saint Francis of Assisi himself founded a hermitage on this site in the 13th century. Anecdote: the basilica was originally intended to rival St Peter's in Rome, but the project was scaled back due to budgetary constraints.

What can you do there?

- Admire the monumental dome, one of the largest in the Christian world

- Discover the chapels adorned with Baroque and neoclassical masterpieces

- See paintings by Goya and Zurbarán

- Attend a sacred music concert if the opportunity arises

- Then take a stroll through the picturesque La Latina district

Where is it?

📍 Plaza de San Francisco, s/n, 28005 Madrid, Spain

👉 See on Google Maps

Practical advice

- Admission: approx. €5 (reductions available)

- Guided tour recommended to better understand the works of art

- Accessible by metro (La Latina or Puerta de Toledo stations)

- Allow around 1 hour for the full tour

To discover around

- La Latina district

- El Rastro (Sunday market)

- Las Vistillas Gardens

- Plaza Mayor

Audioguide

🎧 Listen to our immersive description of the Basilica of Saint Francis the Great on *History Guide City Madrid*!

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