
Iglesia de San Francisco de Asís (Church of St. Francis of Assisi), Santa Cruz de Tenerife
Church of Saint Francis of Assisi stands as a magnificent example of Canary Islands Baroque. Built originally as part of a Franciscan convent—founded in the late 17th century—the current structure was completed in 1680, showcasing a colonial facade, a Neo-Corinthian portico, and three robust toscano stone columns. Visitors are greeted by a spacious three-nave interior, vaulted arches, Mudejar wooden ceilings, and richly detailed altarpieces in Andalusian style, including the grand main retablo and several exquisitely carved side altars.
One of the most treasured elements of the church is the revered image of the Lord of Tribulations, a small 17th-century bust of Christ. This sacred figure holds deep significance in the spiritual life: during the 1893 cholera outbreak, it was carried through the city’s streets in a solemn procession, after which the epidemic mysteriously subsided. In gratitude, the people honored it with the title “Lord of Santa Cruz.”
Inside, look for the beautifully restored 18th-century retablos—particularly the impressive main altar with its ornate Salomonic columns from the old Dominican convent—and the finely painted frescoes in grisaille that frame the choir and presbytery, depicting notable figures. A historic pipe organ, dating between 1778 and 1781, adds to the sacred atmosphere, often used during Mass and special concerts in the parish.
One of the most treasured elements of the church is the revered image of the Lord of Tribulations, a small 17th-century bust of Christ. This sacred figure holds deep significance in the spiritual life: during the 1893 cholera outbreak, it was carried through the city’s streets in a solemn procession, after which the epidemic mysteriously subsided. In gratitude, the people honored it with the title “Lord of Santa Cruz.”
Inside, look for the beautifully restored 18th-century retablos—particularly the impressive main altar with its ornate Salomonic columns from the old Dominican convent—and the finely painted frescoes in grisaille that frame the choir and presbytery, depicting notable figures. A historic pipe organ, dating between 1778 and 1781, adds to the sacred atmosphere, often used during Mass and special concerts in the parish.
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Iglesia de San Francisco de Asís (Church of St. Francis of Assisi) on Map
Sight Name: Iglesia de San Francisco de Asís (Church of St. Francis of Assisi)
Sight Location: Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain (See walking tours in Santa Cruz de Tenerife)
Sight Type: Religious
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Sight Location: Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain (See walking tours in Santa Cruz de Tenerife)
Sight Type: Religious
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Walking Tours in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain
Create Your Own Walk in Santa Cruz de Tenerife
Creating your own self-guided walk in Santa Cruz de Tenerife is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
Santa Cruz de Tenerife's Historical Buildings
One has to admit that the Tenerife capital has preserved its historical buildings in great condition. History enthusiasts will find a wealth of sightseeing sites in the heart of Santa Cruz de Tenerife, each weaving a unique narrative of the city's cultural legacy.
Among these architectural gems is the Church of the Immaculate Conception, a testament to the island's deep-rooted... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.8 Km or 1.7 Miles
Among these architectural gems is the Church of the Immaculate Conception, a testament to the island's deep-rooted... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.8 Km or 1.7 Miles
Santa Cruz de Tenerife Introduction Walking Tour
There is archeological evidence indicating a civilization two thousand years ago in the area where Santa Cruz stands today. The indigenous people were the Guanches. The island of Tenerife was called Anazo. The famous Mummy of San Andres is an excellent silent witness to those long-ago times. Before the Spaniards there were kingdoms.
On the third of May in 1494, Castilian soldiers commanded by... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.3 Km or 2.1 Miles
On the third of May in 1494, Castilian soldiers commanded by... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.3 Km or 2.1 Miles