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Church · Pontevedra, Galicia
Convento de San Francisco de Pontevedra
14th-century Franciscan Gothic church on praça da Ferrería, traditionally linked to the passage of São Francisco de Assis, with the tomb of the admiral and troubadour Paio Gómez Chariño.
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 Convento de San Francisco de Pontevedra
The convent of San Francisco is located on praça da Ferrería in Pontevedra's historic center. According to tradition, the convent was founded by Saint Francis of Assisi himself, who is said to have passed through the town on the way to Santiago. What the documents confirm is that the friars' house already existed in 1274.
The present church is Gothic, from the 14th century, built with the help of the heirs of Paio Gómez Chariño, on land that at the time lay outside the walls. It is a long single-nave church, with an apse of five chapels and large pointed windows.
Inside is the tomb of Paio Gómez Chariño, an admiral of Castile who took part in the conquest of Seville in the 13th century and was also a troubadour, author of cantigas in Galician-Portuguese. His figure appears recumbent on the lid of the sepulcher.
The convent is still inhabited by Franciscan friars, and the church is open for worship. From the entrance steps you can see the whole praça da Ferrería.
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
15 to 30 minutes.
Best time
On weekdays, outside service times.
How to get there
It is located in the praça da Ferrería, in the historic center, about a 3-minute walk from the igreja da Peregrina.
Tip
Look for the tomb of Paio Gómez Chariño inside the church: he is the best-known figure of the city's medieval history.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Convento de San Francisco de Pontevedra
Who is buried in the convent of San Francisco?
Paio Gómez Chariño, admiral of Castile and a troubadour of the 13th century.
Did Saint Francis of Assisi visit Pontevedra?
That is what tradition says, linked to the camino de Santiago. Documents confirm the convent already existed by 1274.
Does the convent still have friars?
Yes, it is inhabited by Franciscan friars, and the church is open for worship.