“in the stillness of the monastery, wisdom whispers its secrets”
The San Francisco Church (Basilica Sant Francesc) in the heart of Palma is well worth visiting in its own right.
. It is very close by the Cathedral, so if the queues to get into the Cathedral are a little overwhelming then this might be an alternative to satisfy your cultural and religious curiosity.
What’s in the Article
A Little History Of Basilica San Francisco
As you enter into the Plaza Sant Francesc ( San Francisco ) there stands the majestic San Francisco Church and Cloisters in all their glory,
The church has a really quite stunning façade. Above the door in the center there’s a magnificent rose window set with coloured glass that throws wonderful light patterns across the nave at certain times of the day.
Beautifully sculpted scenes from the life of St. Francis of Assisi frame the substantial wooden portals. Don’t just walk through into the church take a few minutes to appreciated the magnificent artisan masons and sculptors that created this masterpiece.
Commissioned in the13th century by King James I of Aragon as a Franciscan monastery the San Francisco Church was originally built in the Catalan Gothic style, over the centuries, the church has undergone many renovations and several expansions.
The original façade was hit by lightening in 1580 and reconstructed in wonderful Baroque style during the latter half of the 17th
Interior of the Church
The interior of Basilica Sant Francesc is blessed with exquisite altarpieces and a fine array of religious paintings and sculptures. The Baroque main altarpiece actually dates back to 1739.
It must be said many of these precious treasures are in desperate need of restoration.
This important church houses the tomb of one of the most famous sons of Mallorca, Ramón Llull (c. 1232 – c.1315) a philosopher, theologian, poet and missionary.
A real Renaissance Man!!
San Francisco Church Cloisters
One of the highlights of a visit to San Francisco Church are the cloisters right next to the church.
Originally designed as a place for the resident friars to walk, meditate and pray, today they attract visitors for their serene architecture. The green and lush gardens are surrounded the slender columns and vaulted ceilings of the cloister walkway.
You may be a devout pilgrim, or just a curious traveler either way a visit to Sant Francesc Church and Cloisters will leave you with a memory not easily forgotten.
Some other interesting places to visit next
Nev xxx
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