Marvel at this breathtaking dome. This is the Real Basílica de San Francisco el Grande. It’s a Neoclassical masterpiece in the heart of Madrid. Its construction spanned decades. Francisco Cabezas Antonio Pló and Francesco Sabatini all contributed to its design. The original Franciscan convent was demolished to make way for this grand structure. Legend says the very first convent was founded in 1217 by Saint Francis of Assisi himself. That’s quite a legacy.
The Real Basílica de San Francisco el Grande isn’t just a church. It’s a treasure trove of Spanish art. Inside you will find paintings from the 17th to 19th centuries. Zurbarán and Goya are among the masters represented. The basilica’s walls are adorned with 19th-century frescoes. It once served as the National Pantheon. Famous artists and politicians were buried here. Their remains were later moved. Today it’s a major tourist attraction.
This magnificent dome is a sight to behold. It measures 33 meters in diameter and 58 meters in height. It’s reportedly the fourth largest dome in Europe. The Pantheon St Peter’s Basilica and the Florence Cathedral are the only larger ones. The dome’s shape is quite unique. It’s more circular than most domes from the 18th century. This makes the Real Basílica de San Francisco el Grande truly special.
The Real Basílica de San Francisco el Grande has a fascinating history. It was elevated to a minor basilica in 1963. Pope John XXIII issued the edict. The church also holds a unique peal of change-ringing bells. They were cast by John Warner and Sons in 1882. They are unringable now. They were the only peal of change-ringing bells in mainland Europe until 2017. That’s a remarkable fact many people don’t know.
In 1980 the Real Basílica de San Francisco el Grande received national historic-artistic monument status. This acknowledges its historical and artistic importance. It’s a place where history art and faith converge. The Real Basílica de San Francisco el Grande is more than just a building. It’s a living testament to Madrid’s rich cultural heritage. A place of beauty and wonder. A must-see on any Madrid itinerary. So let’s step inside and explore the Real Basílica de San Francisco el Grande further.