Majestic Royal Basilica of Saint Francis the Great
Discover the awe-inspiring Royal Basilica of Saint Francis the Great, a masterpiece of architecture and history in Madrid's vibrant center.
The Royal Basilica of Saint Francis the Great, or San Francisco el Grande, is a remarkable church located in the heart of Madrid. This stunning basilica, completed in the 18th century, is celebrated for its monumental dome, which is one of the largest in Spain. The architectural design beautifully blends Neoclassical and Baroque styles, creating a visual feast for visitors. Upon entering, you’ll be awed by the expansive interior, adorned with exquisite frescoes by renowned artists and an impressive collection of religious artworks. The altar, dedicated to Saint Francis, showcases intricate sculptures and decorative elements that reflect the craftsmanship of the era. Visitors often marvel at the serene atmosphere of the basilica, which serves both as a place of worship and a historical landmark. It has become a popular destination for tourists seeking to understand the spiritual and cultural significance of the site. The basilica’s location in the vibrant Centro district makes it accessible and easy to incorporate into a day of exploring Madrid's rich history. Don't forget to take a moment to appreciate the peaceful gardens surrounding the basilica, providing a tranquil escape from the bustling city. This site is not just a church; it is a testament to the artistic and religious heritage of Spain, making it an essential stop on any itinerary for those visiting the capital. Whether you are an architecture enthusiast, a history buff, or simply seeking a moment of reflection, the Royal Basilica of Saint Francis the Great offers an unforgettable experience.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and fully appreciate the serene ambiance.
- Don't miss the impressive dome and the stunning frescoes that adorn the interior.
- Check for any special services or concerts that may be taking place during your visit.
- Take a stroll around the nearby gardens for a peaceful retreat after your visit.
A brief summary to Royal Basilica of Saint Francis the Great
- C. de San Buenaventura, 1, Madrid, Centro, Madrid, 28005, ES
- +34669892313
Getting There
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Car
If you're driving, start from the center of Madrid and head towards Plaza de España. From Plaza de España, take Calle de Ferraz and continue straight onto Calle de Vallehermoso. Turn right onto Calle de San Francisco el Grande, where you'll see the Royal Basilica of Saint Francis the Great. There is limited street parking available, and you may need to pay for parking in nearby parking garages, which usually cost around €2-€3 per hour.
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Metro
To reach the Royal Basilica of Saint Francis the Great via public transportation, take Line 5 (green line) of the Madrid Metro. Board the train at any station along Line 5 and travel to the 'Casa de Campo' station. Transfer to Line 10 (dark blue line) at 'Príncipe Pío' station and head towards 'Puerta del Sur'. Get off at 'La Latina' station. From there, it’s a 15-minute walk to the basilica. Exit the station, head east on Calle de Toledo, then turn left onto Calle de San Buenaventura, where the basilica is located.
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Bus
You can also take the bus to reach the Royal Basilica of Saint Francis the Great. Routes 17, 33, and 65 stop near the basilica. If you're near the city center, board any of these buses at a nearby bus stop and get off at the 'San Francisco el Grande' stop. From there, it's a short walk to the basilica located at Calle de San Buenaventura, 1. Bus fares are typically €1.50 for a single journey.
Attractions Nearby to Royal Basilica of Saint Francis the Great
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Real Basílica San Francisco el Grande
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Corral de la Morería
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Las Vistillas Garden
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La Cueva De Lola
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Plaza de los Carros
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Fuente de la plaza de Los Carros
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Church of Saint Andrew the Apostle
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Chapel of Our Lady and of Saint John of Letrán
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Imagen de la Virgen María
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Barrio de La Latina
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Plaza del Humilladero
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Museo de San Isidro
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Palacio de los Vargas
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Plaza de la Paja
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Plaza Paja
Landmarks nearby to Royal Basilica of Saint Francis the Great
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Retablo del Altar Mayor (Iglesia de San Andrés Apóstol)
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Hombre Sentado
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Pl. de la Paja
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Puerta al sol
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Arab Walls
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Muslim Walls
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Plazuela de San Javier
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Fuente de la Plaza de la Cebada
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El Vecino Curioso
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Plaza Del Gral. Vara De Rey
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Athens Park
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Catedral de Santa María la Real de la Almudena
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Catedral de la Almudena
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Mural a los Tercios Españoles
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Casa de La Villa. City of Madrid