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Church · La Serena, Coquimbo
Iglesia de San Francisco
The first stone church of La Serena, completed in 1627 by the Franciscans, a few blocks from the Plaza de Armas. It escaped the pirate-set fire of 1680 and has been a Historic Monument since 1977.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Iglesia de San Francisco
The Iglesia de San Francisco is on the corner of Avenida Balmaceda and Eduardo de la Barra street in the historic center. The Franciscans arrived in La Serena in 1563, and the current temple began to be built around 1590 and was inaugurated in 1627. It was the city's first stone church.
The limestone came from Peñuelas Alto, and the wood from the Fray Jorge forest on the southern coast of the region. In 1680 the English pirate Bartholomew Sharp burned nearly all of La Serena's churches, but this one was spared. Earthquakes have toppled the tower more than once, and the main façade acquired Renaissance features in a 19th-century renovation.
Inside, the side chapels were joined by arches in 1896, forming three naves under a wooden roof. The image of the Virgen del Socorro is on the main altar, and a crypt holds the remains of Franciscan friars. The bell, from 1855, weighs about three and a half tons.
Next door is the Museo Colonial de San Francisco, with religious art from the colonial period. The church has been a Historic Monument since 1977 and is a short walk from the churches of Santo Domingo and Santa Inés.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
Around half an hour for the church; about an hour if you include the colonial museum next door.
Best time
Tuesday through Sunday during the day; the church is usually closed on Mondays. Check before you go.
How to get there
On foot, about 300 meters from Plaza de Armas: follow Cordovez to Los Carrera and then Balmaceda.
Tip
Notice the blocks of stone in the walls and the wooden roof of the three naves. Combine this visit with the Iglesia de Santo Domingo and Santa Inés to complete a tour of the stone churches.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Iglesia de San Francisco
Which is the oldest church in La Serena?
The Iglesia de San Francisco, completed in 1627, was the city's first stone church and still stands.
What other stone churches can you see in downtown La Serena?
The Cathedral, the Iglesia de Santo Domingo and Santa Inés are a few blocks away, all in the historic center.
Is there a museum at the Iglesia de San Francisco?
Yes, the Museo Colonial de San Francisco operates next door, with colonial religious art. Opening days vary: check before you go.