Sant Francesc, Minor basilica in Palma de Mallorca, Spain.
Sant Francesc is a minor basilica in Palma de Mallorca that blends Gothic and Baroque elements across its facade and interior spaces. The highlight is the two-story cloister with orange trees, lemon trees, and slender columns surrounding a central stone well.
Construction started in 1281 in the Gothic style and shaped the building's interior for centuries. The facade underwent changes after lightning strikes in the 1700s and acquired Baroque features.
The complex is dedicated to Saint Francis and carries his name throughout its structure, reflecting the Franciscan tradition visible in the monastic layout and furnishings. The spaces have been used by monks for centuries and maintain this religious community function in their organization and daily use.
Entry is through a large portal facing the street, and visitors can also walk through the cloister to explore the various chapels and interior spaces. It is worth spending time wandering through the arcades, as the numerous side chapels and memorials deserve careful attention.
A chapel inside displays paintings depicting the execution of 19 Catholic martyrs in Holland in 1572, a somber chapter of religious history. These particular artworks tell the story of a distant historical event that found a home and preservation in this church.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
