Basilica of St Francis of Assisi
The Basilica of Saint Francis of Assisi, also known as the Convento de San Francisco de Asis, is a historic Catholic minor basilica and Franciscan convent located in Old Havana, Cuba. Its construction spanned several decades, beginning in the late 16th century and undergoing significant reforms in the 18th century, making it a notable example of colonial Baroque architecture. It now serves as a venue for concerts and houses a museum of sacred art.
Key Facts
- ›Construction began in 1548, with inauguration in 1575 and completion in 1591.
- ›Suffered damage from storms and a hurricane in the late 17th century.
- ›Underwent structural reforms between 1731 and 1738.
- ›Attained its status as a minor basilica in 1739.
- ›Was used by the British for worship during their occupation of Havana in 1762.
- ›Part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Old Havana since 1982.
Baroque
Franciscans
About Basilica of St Francis of Assisi
The Basilica of Saint Francis of Assisi
The Basilica of Saint Francis of Assisi, also known in historical records as the Convento de San Francisco de Asis, stands as a significant Catholic minor basilica and Franciscan convent in the historic district of Old Havana, Cuba. Its construction history is extensive, with initial building commencing in 1548 and concluding in 1591, though it was formally inaugurated in 1575. The structure endured damage from storms in 1680 and 1692, and a hurricane in 1694 that necessitated repairs to its tower.
History and Development
The basilica's current form began to take shape in 1716, with a comprehensive series of structural reforms undertaken from 1731 to 1738. It officially attained the status of a minor basilica in 1739. During the British occupation of Havana in 1762, the basilica was utilized by British forces for their worship. Following the city's return to Spanish rule, it was not immediately reconsecrated as a church.
In later years, the building transitioned to secular use. In 1842, it became the General Post Office and the headquarters for the Post Office of Cuba, and subsequently housed other government departments. Today, the basilica is primarily used for concerts, and the adjacent monastery cloister has been repurposed to house a museum of sacred art.
Architectural Significance
The Basilica of Saint Francis of Assisi is recognized for its late colonial Baroque architecture, a style evident in its facade which features three stone statues representing the Immaculate Conception, Saint Francis of Assisi, and Saint Dominic. The attached bell tower stands at 138 feet. Originally, a statue of St. Francis of Assisi graced its summit but was lost to a cyclone in 1846.
Recognition
As a testament to its historical and architectural importance, the Basilica of Saint Francis of Assisi, along with the entire district of Old Havana, was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1982. The adjacent Plaza de San Francisco de Asís, founded in 1628, further underscores the area's historical depth and its connection to the basilica.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
When was the Basilica of Saint Francis of Assisi built?
Construction of the basilica began in 1548 and concluded in 1591. It was inaugurated in 1575. Significant structural reforms were carried out between 1731 and 1738.
What is the architectural style of the basilica?
The basilica is noted for its late colonial Baroque architecture. The painting by Dominic Serres highlights its magnificent late colonial Baroque design.
What is the current use of the Basilica of Saint Francis of Assisi?
Today, the basilica is used for concerts. The adjacent monastery cloister houses a museum of sacred art.
Is the Basilica of Saint Francis of Assisi a UNESCO World Heritage Site?
Yes, the Basilica of Saint Francis of Assisi, along with the rest of Old Havana, has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1982.
Was the basilica ever used for non-religious purposes?
Yes, in 1842, it became the General Post Office and headquarters of the Post Office of Cuba. It also served as a government office for other departments and was used by the British for worship during their occupation.
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