Real Basilica de San Francisco el Grande

Basílica de San Francisco el Grande is also called the Royal Basilica of Saint Francis the Great, a stunning neoclassical church nestled near Madrid’s La Latina district. It was built on the site of a 13th century Franciscan hermitage and founded by St. Francis of Assisi, commissioned by King Charles III and designed by Francisco Cabezas, with the dome by Antonio Pló and the striking façade and towers by Francesco Sabatini. It is the largest dome in Spain and fourth largest in Europe after those in Rome and Florence, having 33m in diameter and 58 m high.

The basilica is home to an exceptional collection of Spanish art. It was declared a minor basilica in 1963 and a National Monument in 1980, the church once served as a pantheon for prominent Spaniards and remains a colorful place of worship.

Things to do at Basilica de San Francisco EI Grande

• Rome through six side chapels, featuring works by Goya, Zurbarán, Alonso Cano, Velázquez, Ribalta, and more 
• Attend Mass or Sacred Events.
• Don’t miss the vaulted corridors behind the main altar showcasing important Spanish baroque artworks 
• Capture the Drone-Worthy Views & Interior Details

Essential Information

• Basilica de San Francisco EI Grande opening hours: 
• Church Timing:

Monday to Saturday: 8:00 AM - 10:30 AM

Sunday: 10:00 AM - 1:30 PM & 6:30 PM - 8:00 PM

• Museum Timings:

Tuesday to Saturday: 10:30 AM - 12:30 PM & 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM  

• Basilica de San Francisco EI Grande Ticket Price:
• Ticket Fee: Free Entry, but ticket is required if you want to see the Museum.
• Museum Ticket Price: €5
• Basilica de San Francisco EI Grande location: C. de San Buenaventura, 1, Centro, 28005 Madrid, Spain

How to Reach Basilica de San Francisco EI Grande

• Fly into madrid barajas airport, then take a taxi which takes 20 - 30 minutes to reach the basilica de san Francisco el grande.
• If you want to travel by metro, then arrive metro and stop at La Latina station or Puerta de Toledo station are closest to basilica, just a 5–15 minute walk.
• If you want to travel by bus then there are multiple city bus lines stopping within a short stroll: 3, 17, 23, 35, 60, 148, M3, N16, C1, C2, etc. which stop near to the basilica.

Travel tips for Visiting the Basilica de San Francisco EI Grande

• Try to avoid crowds in the morning or early afternoon.
• While flash photography is not allowed to protect the art.
• Before visiting, check opening timings, hours may change for holidays, Mass, or maintenance.
• Consider joining a guided tour to fully appreciate the rich holidays, symbolism, and artwork.

FAQs

What is the largest dome in Spain?

Basilica de San Francisco EI Grand in Madrid holds the title of largest dome in Spain, measuring about 33 m wide and 58 m high. It is truly beautiful when you see it in person.

What time is Mass at the Basilica of San Francisco El Grande?

While mass times can be different, there is daily Mass in the late afternoon or evening, around 7:00 PM on weekdays and sometimes earlier on weekends. It is a good idea to check the schedule before you visit.

How long is the Basilica tour?

The tour takes up to 43 minutes to 1 hour. If you join a guided tour that includes the museum and cloisters, it may take up to 90 minutes.