The Basilica and Convent of St Francis in Salta, Argentina, stands as an important throwback to colonial Spanish history. Built in the old city of Tucumán in 1772, this grand Baroque-style church and monastery is one of the most beautiful landmarks from the era and is now an important cultural and historical site for locals.
It’s beautiful interior, stunning architecture, and peaceful setting make it a must-see attraction for any visitor to Salta.
In this travel guide, we’ll explore the history and significance of the Basilica and Convent of St Francis in Salta, provide information for a visit, and tell you about the unique cultural experiences the area offers visitors.
1. The Basilica and Convent of St Francis in Salta, Argentina, is the second oldest in Latin America, after the Convent of St Dominic in Lima, Peru.
2. Founded in 1582, it was originally built by Spanish conquistador Martin Cardona and his wife, the adelantado and Franciscan monk, Marcos Farías.
3. The church is considered a National Historic Monument thanks to its architectural, archaeological and religious significance.
4. The basilica features a colorful neoclassical façade and several magnificent tiles, representing different scenes from the life of St Francis of Assisi.
5. Inside, a magnificent stained glass window, purchased from France in the 19th century, depicts images of saints and angels.
6. The church also houses two important bells: La Emperatriz and La Conquistadora, both of them made from melted coins.
7. The building also includes a museum dedicated to Franciscan art, with several pieces from the colonial period in Argentina.
8. One of the oldest monuments in Salta, the Basilica and Convent of St Francis is still an important pilgrimage site, with devotees from different parts of the country coming to pay their respects.
The Basilica and Convent of San Francisco in Salta, Argentina is a convent and church built in colonial times located in the city center of Salta. Its construction began in 1582 and was completed in 1621. It served as a hospital to treat the wounded during the tumultuous colonial period in which Spain sent military forces to fight the local indigenous population.
The two story building was built in a baroque style with a large main entrance, wooden door and double brackets with a pediment above. The interior of the church is smaller than the exterior and designed in the same baroque style. The interior of the church consists of large masonry columns, plaster panel paintings, and grand archways with marble altars.
The bell tower is built on top of the church and has a dual function. It houses fourteen bells which are rung every hour to call people to prayer and it also serves as a lookout point over the city. The convent was one of the most prominent in South America but now serves mainly as a tourist attraction. The convent and church are still owned by the Franciscan friars and are open for visitors.
The Basilica and Convent of San Francisco in Salta is a beautiful example of colonial architecture and history. It stands as a reminder of the tumultuous past of the region and its importance in the history of South America. The convent is a popular tourist destination and is well worth a visit for those interested in the history and architecture of the region.
The Basilica and Convent of St Francis in Salta, Argentina are two important historical sites. Built in the late 18th century, the convent is the oldest in the city and the basilica is a National Historic Monument. Located in the Historic Center of Salta, the Franciscan complex has become a popular tourist destination. The complex consists of five separate buildings: the convent, the sanctuary, the recovery wing, the cemetery, and the basilica.
The convent has a large and ornate facade that stands out from the streets of Salta’s historic center. Inside, the convent has several small chapels, a library, and a museum that houses various religious artifacts and documents.
The church of the sanctuary is a beautiful 18th century structure that offers a stunning view of the city. It is located in the same area as the convent and the basilica. The cemetery, located inside the convent walls, is where some of Salta’s most important religious figures from the past are buried.
The basilica is an impressive structure and is one of the most visited tourist attractions in Salta. The exterior is made of rose-colored stone and features a large Baroque doorway. Inside, there are five chapels, two altars, and a large open-air space with sculptures and a fountain. The main attraction of the basilica is its 17th century dome, which dominates the skyline of the historic center.
The Basilica and Convent of St Francis in Salta are two of the most important historical sites in Argentina. Both sites are open to the public and can be visited at any time. Guides are available to offer information about the history and architecture of the sites. Visitors can also take advantage of the many restaurants nearby.