Royal Basilica of Saint Francis the Great

In the heart of Madrid, nestled within the historic district of Las Acacias, stands the magnificent Royal Basilica of Saint Francis the Great, known locally as the Basílica de San Francisco el Grande. This architectural marvel is not just a place of worship but a testament to the rich history and artistic heritage of Spain. With its grandiose dome and opulent interior, the basilica is a must-visit for anyone exploring the Spanish capital.

The History of the Royal Basilica of Saint Francis the Great

The origins of the Royal Basilica of Saint Francis the Great date back to the early 13th century when a Franciscan convent was established on the site. According to legend, the convent was founded by Saint Francis of Assisi himself in 1217. Over the centuries, the convent grew in importance, especially after King Philip II made Madrid the capital of Spain in 1561. The convent became a custodian of the Holy Places conquered by the Crusaders and gained significant wealth and influence.

In 1760, the Franciscans decided to replace the original convent with a larger, more magnificent structure. The initial design was by the architect Ventura Rodríguez, but it was ultimately Francisco Cabezas who conceptualized the grand rotunda and dome. The construction faced numerous challenges, including technical difficulties that led to the suspension of work in 1768. Antonio Pló took over and completed the dome in 1770. The final touches were added by Francesco Sabatini, the royal architect, who designed the main façade and the two towers that crown the basilica.

The basilica was completed in 1784, but its history didn't end there. During the reign of Joseph I, it was considered for conversion into a parliamentary hall and later served as a hospital. In 1836, the Franciscans were expelled, and the building came under state control. It briefly housed the remains of notable Spanish figures, including Calderón de la Barca and Francisco de Quevedo, before they were returned to their original resting places in 1874.

In 1869, the idea of converting the basilica into a National Pantheon was revisited, but it was not until 1926 that the building was returned to the Franciscans. In 1962, Pope John XXIII declared it a minor basilica, and it was rededicated to Our Lady of the Angels. The basilica underwent several restorations throughout the 20th century, finally reopening to the public in 2001 after decades of work.

The Architectural Splendor of the Basilica

The Royal Basilica of Saint Francis the Great is a masterpiece of neoclassical architecture. Its central, circular floor plan is crowned by a massive dome, which is the third-largest circular dome in Christendom, measuring 33 meters in diameter and 58 meters in height. The dome's construction is a marvel of engineering, with its brick structure gradually thinning from three meters at the base to less than a meter at the top.

The interior of the basilica is equally impressive, with a grand rotunda surrounded by six smaller chapels. The main chapel is located in the apse and serves as the focal point of the entire structure. The use of granite and brick in the construction adds to the basilica's grandeur, while the eclectic interior decoration, completed in the late 19th century, showcases the work of some of Spain's finest artists.

The Dome and Its Artistic Treasures

The dome of the Royal Basilica of Saint Francis the Great is not just an architectural feat but also a canvas for some of the most renowned painters of the time. The decoration of the dome includes works by Casto Plasencia, Alejandro Ferrant, Salvador Martínez Cubells, Francisco Jover, and Manuel Domínguez. These artists adorned the eight moldings and the sections of the dome with intricate paintings that add to the basilica's splendor.

Surrounding the rotunda are twelve statues of the Apostles, carved from Carrara marble between 1885 and 1886. These statues, standing on large pedestals and measuring approximately 2.5 meters in height, were created by prominent Spanish sculptors, including Mariano Benlliure, Elías Martín, Justo de Gandarias, Jerónimo Suñol, Antonio Moltó, Agapito Vallmitjana, Juan Samsó, and Ricardo Bellver. The statues add a sense of grandeur and solemnity to the interior.

The dome's lower section features the four Evangelists and twelve Sibyls, painted by Alejandro Ferrant. These figures frame the stained glass windows that illuminate the basilica, adding to the overall sense of awe and reverence.

A Cultural and Spiritual Landmark

The Royal Basilica of Saint Francis the Great is not just a religious site but a cultural landmark that reflects the rich history and artistic heritage of Spain. Its walls have witnessed centuries of history, from its founding by Saint Francis of Assisi to its role as a National Pantheon and its eventual restoration as a place of worship.

Visitors to the basilica can explore its stunning architecture, admire the intricate artwork, and reflect on the historical significance of this remarkable building. Whether you are a history buff, an art lover, or a spiritual seeker, the Royal Basilica of Saint Francis the Great offers a unique and enriching experience that should not be missed when visiting Madrid.