Church of San Francesco the Great

The Church of San Francisco el Grande, located in the heart of the La Latina neighborhood in Madrid, represents one of the most important architectural and artistic masterpieces of the city. This neoclassical basilica, completed in 1784, stands out for its imposing dome, the largest in Spain and the fourth in Europe, with a diameter of 33 meters and a height of 58 meters, surpassed only by those of the Pantheon and St. Peter’s in Rome, and by the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore in Florence. The construction of the basilica was started in 1760 by order of King Charles III on land that, according to tradition, was offered to St. Francis of Assisi during his pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela in 1214. The original design was entrusted to Francisco Cabezas, but the completion of the work was carried out by Antonio Pló and Francesco Sabatini, an Italian architect known for his contribution to the urban development of Madrid. The interior of the church is a riot of art and decorations. The main nave is surrounded by six chapels, each with its own dome and distinct ornaments. One of the most famous is the Chapel of San Bernardino of Siena, which houses a painting by Francisco Goya depicting the saint preaching in front of Alfonso V of Aragon. Interesting is Goya’s self-portrait hidden within the scene, a detail that adds a personal touch to the work. In addition to Goya, the basilica houses works by other great Spanish masters such as Zurbarán, who contributes some paintings of remarkable artistic value. The chapel dedicated to Charles III is also particularly significant, with Eugenio Oliva’s painting “The Proclamation of the Dogma of the Immaculate Conception” and the image of the Virgin of Oblivion. The architecture of the basilica is not only functional but also highly symbolic. The circular structure and central dome recall the model of the Pantheon in Rome, a clear reference to the great classical tradition. The seven main doors, made of carved walnut, and the 16th-century Gothic choir stalls from the province of Segovia, add an additional layer of historical and artistic depth. During the 19th century, the basilica also served as a national pantheon, housing the remains of important artists and politicians. Today, it continues to be a point of reference not only for the faithful but also for tourists and art lovers, thanks to its guided tours that allow visitors to explore its artistic wonders in detail. Another distinctive element of the basilica is its location in the historic La Latina neighborhood, an area of Madrid rich in life and culture. The church, with its sober and vertical facade, stands majestically among the narrow and lively streets of the neighborhood, creating a fascinating contrast between monumental architecture and vibrant urban environment. Its declaration as a National Monument in 1980 officially recognized the historical and artistic importance of the basilica, ensuring its protection and preservation for future generations. This status was further confirmed by its elevation to a minor basilica in 1963, a title conferred by Pope John XXIII.