San Francisco Church, Santiago

The oldest religious site in Santiago, embodying the city's former symbol, is the church and convent of San Francisco. This colonial complex holds immense spiritual importance for the people of Santiago and is a treasure trove of memories.

Originally constructed in 1554 to house the Virgen del Socorro, the church's history is inseparably intertwined with that of the city. Unfortunately, an earthquake razed the initial building to the ground, leading to the construction of the present-day structure on the same site. Despite the passing centuries, the weathered walls stand as a testament to its ancient origins, having undergone several modifications and reinforcements.

Over time, numerous ornamental additions have graced the church's architecture, notably a beautifully adorned wooden roof, a sight of breathtaking magnificence. Adjacent to the church stands a convent, showcasing a splendid collection of colonial art, including intricate silverware, tapestries, figurines, and paintings. This extraordinary assortment could easily contend for the title of the most extensive and finest colonial art collection in Chile.

The convent also houses a diverse array of religious and monk-related artifacts, along with a marvelous collection of silverware, carvings, and dozens of paintings in the rear rooms, depicting life during Saint Francis' era. The entire complex remains a living testament to Santiago's historical and spiritual legacy, inviting visitors to explore the rich heritage it encapsulates.

Why You Should Visit:
Full of Spanish paintings and other art forms in the unique style of the time. The attached museum also contains a vast array of extremely old ecclesiastical items and artworks which can't be photographed so the only way to see them is to go there. Well worth the small entry fee, but note that there is very little information in English.

Tip:
The peaceful internal garden is a cool oasis on a hot day, with chickens and peacocks roaming about, and stunning tropical flowers.