Convent of San Francisco, Palma

Convent in Palma

CC BY-SA 4.0 / Z thomas

The Convent of San Francisco has a rich history, dating back to its initial construction in 1232. However, in 1281, it underwent significant remodeling, resulting in the structure we see today. Notably, Jacques de Mallorca, the son of King Jacques II de Mallorca, took his religious vows within its walls during the 13th century. Presently, the Convent of San Francisco, along with its cloister, stands as an exceptional exemplar of medieval architecture in Palma de Mallorca.

The church within the convent boasts a Gothic nave, encircled by eight side chapels and a polygonal apse. The more recent chapels were constructed between 1445 and 1670. Inside the convent, one can marvel at a retable, another remarkable Gothic masterpiece from the 15th century. Adjacent to the presbytery, to the left, lies the tomb of Ramon Llull, a Majorcan writer, philosopher, logician, and a Franciscan tertiary, whose death remains shrouded in mystery.

The church’s facade underwent a reconstruction in the 17th century, overseen by Francisco de Herrera. The portal retains its Gothic style, while the frontal and the round stained-glass window are the handiwork of the skilled glazier Pere Comas.

Connected to the church, the cloister was erected between the 17th and 18th centuries, forming a captivating architectural ensemble characterized by its splendid columns and buttresses. This cloister represents yet another facet of the Convent of San Francisco’s historical and architectural significance.

The Convent of San Francisco, Palma appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Palma!

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