Church of San Francisco

The Church of San Francisco, locally known as Convento del Carmen de Villarreal, is a historical gem nestled in the heart of Vila-real, a charming town in the Plana Baja region of Spain. This religious edifice, dating back to the 17th century, stands as a testament to the town's rich spiritual and architectural heritage. Designated as a Bien de Relevancia Local, or a site of local significance, the Church of San Francisco is a must-visit for history enthusiasts and casual tourists alike.

The Origins of the Convent

The origins of the Church of San Francisco trace back to the late 16th century. On September 5, 1593, a woman named Juana Piquer donated a piece of land to the Franciscan order with the stipulation that a convent be established within a year. The then-prior of the order, Fray Baltasar Pons, found the donated land insufficient for a full convent and requested additional space from the local council. The council agreed, granting an adjacent hermitage dedicated to Saint Blaise and Saint Barbara, on the condition that the new conventual church maintain the dedication to these saints.

Construction of the convent began soon after, and by 1602, the local and religious institutions had established the route for processions celebrating the Feast of Our Lady of Mount Carmel, the patroness of the convent. The Franciscan friars, renowned for their eloquent preaching, were soon entrusted with delivering sermons during Lent and on major local feast days, a tradition that continues to this day.

Historical Turmoil and Resilience

The Church of San Francisco has witnessed numerous upheavals throughout its history. During the War of Spanish Succession, the friars sought refuge in the nearby convent of Onda after Villarreal was sacked and burned by Bourbon troops. They returned once the conflict subsided, only to face disruption again during the Peninsular War, which saw the friars once more taking refuge in Onda.

The liberal period of 1820-1823 brought further challenges, with the convent being suppressed and the friars compelled to merge with the community in Onda by royal decree. The convent was permanently closed in 1835 following another royal decree that mandated the closure of monasteries with fewer than twelve professed members. The once-sacred space was repurposed as a silk worm farm and later as a warehouse for oranges. The church itself was transformed into an alcohol factory until 1877, when a group of priests and laypeople purchased and restored it, eventually donating it back to the Franciscan order.

In 1923, two friars from the First Order returned and settled in a nearby farmhouse, later moving to another property. In 1926, construction of a new convent began, and it was completed and blessed on November 24, 1927. However, the Spanish Civil War brought yet another period of abandonment and repurposing, with the convent serving as a barracks and hospital for both sides of the conflict. After the war, the Franciscans reclaimed their convent, and it was returned to them by the military authorities.

Architectural Highlights

The Church of San Francisco boasts a single-nave design typical of 17th-century ecclesiastical architecture. The high choir at the rear of the nave adds a touch of grandeur, while the side chapels, adorned with intricate altarpieces, offer a glimpse into the rich artistic traditions of the era. The church's dome, decorated with frescoes, is a sight to behold, and behind the main altar lies the oval-shaped Communion Chapel, capped by a large dome that enhances its verticality.

The convent area is equally impressive, with a mannerist-style cloister that invites visitors to reflect and admire the serene surroundings. The cloister's understated elegance and harmonious proportions make it a perfect example of Renaissance architectural principles applied to monastic settings.

Visiting the Church of San Francisco

Today, the Church of San Francisco stands as a beacon of faith and resilience in Vila-real. Visitors can explore its historical and architectural treasures, gaining insights into the town's spiritual journey over the centuries. Whether you're a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or simply seeking a moment of tranquility, the Church of San Francisco offers a rich and rewarding experience.

As you wander through its hallowed halls, take a moment to appreciate the layers of history embedded in its walls. From its humble beginnings as a donated plot of land to its transformation through wars and secularization, the Church of San Francisco embodies the enduring spirit of Vila-real and its people. Don't miss the chance to visit this remarkable site and immerse yourself in its storied past.