Have you noticed the imposing sandstone wall before you? This is the facade of Sant Francesc d’Assís, a church steeped in history. Prepare to step back in time as we explore its fascinating past.
Sant Francesc d’Assís is more than just a church. It is a testament to faith and art. Its story begins in the 13th century, a time of great change for Mallorca.
The Franciscans arrived in Majorca in 1232. They first built a church near the gate of Saint Margaret. Later in 1281, they settled here and started building the convent and church. Imagine the dedication it took to construct this magnificent structure.
The church’s architecture is a captivating blend of styles. The Gothic structure dates back to the late 13th and 14th centuries. A lightning strike in 1580 destroyed the original facade. It was rebuilt in Baroque style in the 17th century. Pere Horrach and Francisco de Herrera oversaw this transformation. Look closely at the doorjambs of the apse gate. You will see sculptures of Saint Dominic and Saint Francis. The tympanum above showcases Baroque sculptures. The Immaculate Conception is at the center. Duns Scoto and Ramon Llull flank her. Saint George tops the gate.
Notice the rose window. Pere d’Alcàntara Penya refurbished the top part of the facade in 1861. He added the triangular pediment and sundial.
Inside Sant Francesc d’Assís, the basilica floor plan features one nave and side chapels. The chevet includes several apses and an ambulatory. This was completed during the Baroque refurbishment. The rib vault dates back to 1384 replacing the original wooden one.
Don’t miss the Gothic choir seats from the 15th century. Macià Bonafé created these. Joan d’Aragó designed the Baroque main altarpiece in 1739. A highlight is the tomb of Ramon Llull from 1487. Francesc Sagrera sculpted this alabaster sarcophagus. It features the recumbent figure of the “Doctor Illumination”. Seven empty stone niches lie beneath it meant for images of the seven liberal arts.
The cloister is connected to the church. This trapezoidal space showcases unique Gothic architecture. Pointed and lobed arches rest on slender quatrefoil columns. The coffered ceiling displays polychrome wood. The north gallery is the oldest dating back to the 14th century. The south gallery is more modern built in the 15th century. Gravestones of noble families cover the floor.
The Basilica of San Francesco was Palma’s most famous church during the Middle Ages. The Franciscan community greatly influenced Majorcan cultural life. Rich Majorcans competed for the largest tombs for their families.
Junipero Serra studied here for centuries. In 1832, civilians took control of the monastery. It had various uses until 1906. The Franciscans returned in 1906. They resumed worship and opened a school and cultural center.
A statue of Junipero Serra stands in front of the church. He was a famous Majorcan missionary. He founded Los Angeles San Francisco and Santa Clara.
The church is open Monday to Saturday. You can visit from 09:30 to 12:30 and from 15:10 to 18:00. On Sundays and bank holidays, it is open from 09:00 to 12:30.
As we leave Sant Francesc d’Assís, remember the layers of history and art. The Gothic cloister and Baroque facade tell a story of resilience faith and beauty. This basilica remains a treasure in the heart of Palma.