Monastery Saint Francis of Assisi

The monastery of Saint Francis of Assisi

The Las Palmas audio-guided tour stops you before the monastery of Saint Francis of Assisi. A place of worship steeped in history, still the seat of a parish, it is discovered with respect, in the calm proper to this kind of building.

A Franciscan convent

The building was constructed in 1518 by a Sevillian named Pedro Llerena, as a convent dedicated to Saint Francis, founder of the Franciscans. Damaged by pirates, it was rebuilt in the 17th century and remains today the seat of the parish of Saint Francis, founded in 1821. Its history is closely linked to that of Christopher Columbus, who passed through Las Palmas in 1492: it was here, it is said, that the first vegetable seeds exported to the New World were grown.

What there is to see

On the square that bears its name stands a bust of Christopher Columbus, recalling Las Palmas's role as a stopover on the route to the Americas. The building, reworked several times, bears witness to the religious and maritime history of the city. It is visited discreetly, with respect for the place of worship and its atmosphere of contemplation.

Practical information

The monastery of Saint Francis of Assisi is on the square of the same name, in the historic centre of Las Palmas. An active place of worship, the visit is generally free outside services; hours may vary. Proper dress and quiet behaviour are expected.

When was the monastery built ?

It was built in 1518, then rebuilt in the 17th century after being damaged by pirates.

What is the link with Christopher Columbus ?

A bust of Columbus adorns the square; according to tradition, the first vegetable seeds exported to the Americas were grown there.