Ever wonder what secrets this serene statue holds? Here before you stands the San Francisco de Asis Statue. It is not just a sculpture. It is a testament to Arequipa’s rich religious history.
The San Francisco de Asis Statue stands as part of the San Francisco Church complex. The Franciscans founded it in 1552. Gaspar Baez finally completed it in 1569. This statue and the church tell a story of Arequipa’s religious identity. The complex includes the Main Church, the Franciscan Convent, the Convent of the Third Order, and the old Colegio Seráfico.
Imagine the 17th century. Reconstruction transformed San Francisco Church. It became the largest complex built with ashlar stone in the country. Its architecture is sober. Minimal ornamentation defines its beauty. The San Francisco de Asis Statue reflects this simplicity.
The church suffered damage from earthquakes. The earthquake of 2001 caused significant structural issues. Sectors like the temple of the Third Order were near collapse. Emergency actions were necessary for preservation. The Cloister of the Third Order sustained extensive damage.
Look closely at the statue and the church’s towers. See the images of the Virgin of the Immaculate Conception. Saint Francis of Assisi and Saint Dominic of Guzman are also there. They are finely sculpted in low relief. The San Francisco de Asis Statue embodies the spirit of Saint Francis.
Step inside the church. A Baroque-style embossed silver altar awaits. Intricately carved pulpit and choir chairs add to the grandeur. Wooden figurines populate the interior. These elements reflect the rich Catholic heritage. The silver altar features figures of Catholic figures.
The complex includes a small square. A temple serves as the head office of a craft center. The library holds over twenty thousand volumes. The library preserves invaluable knowledge.
Consider the materials. The church’s walls are made of ashlar. Its vaults are brick. These materials have withstood centuries of seismic activity. Reconstructions added architectural attributes that you can still see today.
Visit the Museo de Arte Sacro. It is housed within the old convent. Discover the Archaeological and Anthropological Room. See pieces of Inca origin. Explore the Natural History room. Zoomorphic pieces from the jungle are exhibited here. The Museum of Religious Art displays canvases and religious sculptures.
The San Francisco Church opened its doors to the public in 1978. Today, it remains part of the Franciscan order complex. This includes the convent and San Francisco square.
San Francisco de Asis Statue represents resilience and faith. It has stood through earthquakes and reconstructions. Its presence enriches Arequipa’s cultural landscape. Take a moment to appreciate the history and artistry. The San Francisco de Asis Statue is a symbol of enduring devotion.