Royal Basilica of St. Francis the Great, Madrid, Spain Verified listing

Royal Basilica of St. Francis the Great, Madrid, Spain

The Royal Basilica of Saint Francis the Great, officially known as the Basilica of Our Lady of the Angels, stands in Madrid’s historic Palacio district. It faces Plaza de San Francisco, where Bailén Street intersects with Carrera de San Francisco. Moreover, the basilica is part of the Franciscan Convent of Jesus and Mary, founded in the early 13th century. Originally, the friars built it on the site of a hermitage dedicated to Saint Mary.

Later, during the 18th century, the present structure began to take shape. Francisco Cabezas designed it first. Subsequently, Antonio Pló improved the design, and Francesco Sabatini completed the building. Although its style is mainly neoclassical, its grandeur lies in its monumental dome.

In fact, this dome ranks as the third largest circular dome in Christendom. Additionally, it dominates the building’s profile and draws visitors inside. Once inside, they encounter lavish decoration done in the eclectic style. Artists completed it in the late 19th century.

Furthermore, the basilica features an impressive art gallery. This gallery presents Spanish paintings from the 17th to 19th centuries. Notably, it includes works by masters such as Zurbarán and Goya. Because of this, the church attracts art lovers as well as the faithful.

The basilica also serves as a cultural site. Therefore, it blends religion, art, and history. Moreover, it remains active in the religious life of the city.

The Pious Work of the Holy Places of Jerusalem owns and oversees the site. This organization functions under Spain’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation. As a result, the basilica receives support from both religious and governmental institutions. On October 19, 1980, a Royal Decree declared it a National Monument. Hence, it now holds the status of Asset of Cultural Interest.

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