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Church · Betanzos, Galicia
Igrexa de San Francisco de Betanzos
Gothic church from the 14th century, sponsored by Fernán Pérez de Andrade, with the noble's tomb supported on a bear and a boar and a collection of family sarcophagi; a national monument since 1919.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Igrexa de San Francisco de Betanzos
The church of San Francisco is the best known church in Betanzos. It was built in the second half of the 14th century with the patronage of Fernán Pérez de Andrade, the Good, one of the most powerful nobles in Galicia at the time, who rebuilt the 13th-century Franciscan monastery that stood on the site. It has been a national monument since 1919.
The church has a Latin-cross plan, with a single nave and a polygonal apse with ribbed vaulting, flanked by two chapels. The main portal shows the Adoration of the Magi, and the exterior features rose windows, Gothic stained glass and carved dogs. At the top of one of the roof arms, a cross is supported by a boar, the Andrade family's emblematic animal.
Inside is the main attraction: the tomb of Fernán Pérez de Andrade, from 1387, with the figure of the noble lying on the tomb, supported by a bear and a boar, and hunting scenes carved on the sides. The church also houses sixteen sarcophagi of family members.
On the ribs of the vault of the main chapel there are angels playing instruments, including a bagpipe.
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
30 to 45 minutes.
Best time
In the morning or afternoon during visiting hours; check before you go.
How to get there
It is on rua dos Cabildos, in the upper part of the historic center, about a 10-minute walk from Betanzos-Cidade station.
Tip
Look for the angel playing a bagpipe on the ribs of the vault of the main chapel: it’s a Galician detail within Gothic art.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Igrexa de San Francisco de Betanzos
Who is buried in the church of San Francisco?
Fernán Pérez de Andrade, the Good, in a 1387 tomb supported by a bear and a boar, as well as members of his family.
Why is there a boar in the church?
The boar was the symbol of the Andrade family, who sponsored the church. It appears on the tomb and on the roof.
From what period is the church?
From the second half of the 14th century, in Gothic style.