Basilica de San Francisco El Grande Is a Must-See in Spain

Madrid is definitely a sightseers dream as well asto many more art-filled chapels. One of the chapels
heaven for art lovers. If you have any doubt, taking ahas a Goya painting called the San Bernardino de
tour of the church of San Francisco will end thoseSiena. This painting is of the saint. Right next to this
doubts as well as keep your interest piqued the entirepiece of art is another painting-this one a self portrait
time. This tour will show you one of the most importantby the artist. There is not a more beautiful cathedral
buildings in Madrid. The church has many beautifulanywhere in Europe than the church of San Francisco.
sculptures and paintings and even the dome of St.Goya is not the only paintings you will see here.
Paul's Cathedral isn't as large as what you will seeDozens of sculptures and paintings adorn the walls.
here (108 feet).You will get to view work by Maella, Cano and
Regardless of what part of Madrid you choose to visit,Zurbarán as well as some Bellver and Benlliure
you will see what an important part religion and art playsculpting works.
in their history. This basilica which was detailed underYou will find paintings and items that date as far back
the guidance of Carlos III in 1760 was built on locationas the 16th century, even though the church wasn't
reportedly discovered by St. Francis of Assisi in 1217.built until the 18th century. One example is old Gothic
San Francisco El Grande is located in the older part ofchoir stalls for Segovia. Many will feel they are entering
Madrid, but its beauty still speaks for itself with theand sightseeing an art museum, but this is also a
three-sectional edifice warmly greeting you.cathedral that is still very much in use. Anyone wishing
You will be in awe as you see the gorgeousa tour will have a guide to show him around the church
stained-glass windows, the elaborate detailed frescosand all its contents. You will find there are many buses
and the barrel vaulted ceilings. Once you enter, you willcoming and going to and from the church. A Metro
see seven walnut-covered doors, which will lead youstop is at La Latina or Puerta de Toledo.