Basílica de San Francisco El Grande
Calle San Buenaventura 1, Madrid, Spain, 28005
Though Madrid is home to a number of landmark churches, the Basílica de San Francisco El Grande is among the most important because of its huge frescoed dome, baroque facade, and sheer size—it's the largest basilica in Spain. Located in La Latina, the church has six domed chapels and a rich painting collection, including a fresco by Francisco Goya.
The basics
Legend has it that the Basílica de San Francisco El Grande was built on the site where St. Francis of Assisi erected a chapel in the 13th century. Today, the neoclassical church boasts stained glass, side chapels, and an intricately painted dome measuring a whopping 108-feet (33-meters) across.
You can visit the church independently, pay the moderate fee to explore the chapels, and join a free Spanish-language tour, or opt to go with a sightseeing guide. On sunny days, pedicab and e-bike tours are good choices—most pass El Grande—or you can take a church-hopping excursion to cover the city's most prominent religious sights.
Things to know before you go
Art enthusiasts can find the famed Goya fresco in the church's San Bernardino de Siena chapel.
During Mass, the museum and lighted artworks (including the Goya fresco) may not be accessible.
Bike-sharing stations are located nearby, next to the Puerta de Toledo and La Latina metro stops.
How to get there
If you're not whisking by on a guided tour, the metro is the best way to go. You can take the 5 metro line to the Puerta de Toledo stop, and walk just north—up Gran Via de San Francisco—until you reach the basilica. You can easily spot the building on the left, just past the Dalieda de San Francisco gardens.
When to get there
The basilica is open to visitors Tuesday–Friday year-round; in the summer, the museum is open mornings and late afternoons Tuesday–Saturday. Since the basilica is often closed in the middle of the day, plan your trip so you have enough time to explore. Note that the church can host weddings on Saturdays, so visit earlier in the week to avoid potential closures. The ticket office closes 30 minutes before the building closes, and opening hours may change due to religious events, so calling ahead is recommended.
How to see Madrid by bike
To enjoy Madrid independently, you can try the convenient BiciMAD bike-share system. This public transit method includes dozens of docking stations across the city where you can pick up a bike, ride at your leisure, and drop it off when you're done. You can purchase a 1-day, 3-day, or 5-day pass, and use the card provided for unlimited bike access.
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