Hidden within the Basilica of San Francisco in Buenos Aires lies a captivating secret. It’s a time capsule a treasure discovered during a restoration. This is the story of Futura capilla.
Futura capilla is not a separate chapel. It’s connected to the Basilica of San Francisco. This basilica is the oldest church in Buenos Aires a historical landmark. It has undergone many restorations uncovering hidden secrets within its architecture.
In 2007 during one such restoration architects unearthed an amazing surprise. Hidden inside a figure’s head on the facade was a time capsule. Antonio Voegele the sculptor had placed it there a century earlier.
Inside were letters coins and newspapers. The contents detailed the sculptures’ creation and the names of those involved. Voegele’s wish was simple he hoped God and Saint Francis would protect this work. His wish came true. The sculptures of Saint Francis and three members of the Franciscan order still greet visitors today.
To mark the date the capsule included a newspaper from Voegele’s hometown Innsbruck. Four coins were also included. Everything was wrapped in an edition of La Prensa placed inside a tin box. Think of the care involved the reverence shown for posterity. This was more than just art. It was a testament to faith and craftsmanship.
The Basilica of San Francisco itself holds a rich history. Built in 1580 by Franciscan friars it shares its courtyard with the Chapel of San Roque. Together these buildings form a National Historic Monument. The current building’s construction started in 1731. The Jesuit architect Tomas Blanqui designed it with Fray Vicente Munoz assisting.
In 1807 Tomas Toribio proposed a neoclassical facade. A century later German architect Ernesto Sackmann added Baroque elements. Sadly the 1955 church fires damaged the basilica. The dome the central altar and interior ornamentation were lost. The church was rebuilt. In 1972 a massive tapestry the second largest in the world was unveiled. This tapestry was recently restored.
The time capsule found within Futura capilla is more than just an artifact. It embodies the spirit of the Basilica itself a place where history art and faith intertwine. The wish for long existence has been granted. Futura capilla’s story is a testament to the enduring legacy of San Francisco. It lives on through stone through art and through the echoes of a century-old wish.