Church of Saint Francis

Interesting facts

1. 1

   The interior is coated in approximately 300 to 400 kilograms of gold leaf.

2. 2

   The Tree of Jesse carving is considered one of the finest examples of polychrome wood carving in Europe.

3. 3

   The church includes a catacomb system that served as the final resting place for members of the Franciscan order and the city's nobility.

4. 4

   The building survived a major fire in 1832, caused during the Siege of Porto, which destroyed the original Franciscan cloister.

5. 5

   The main portal remains one of the few original Gothic elements still visible from the exterior.

6. 6

   The church contains a collection of 18th-century religious art including a notable sculpture of Saint Francis.

7. 7

   Construction began in 1383, replacing a smaller 13th-century church.

Overview

The Church of Saint Francis in Porto is world-renowned for its elaborate 18th-century Baroque interior, which features an estimated 300 to 400 kilograms of gold leaf covering its wooden carvings. While the building's exterior retains its original 14th-century Gothic architecture, the interior underwent a dramatic transformation during the Baroque period. The church is the only surviving structure of the original Franciscan convent founded in the 13th century. It is located near the Palácio da Bolsa in the historic center of Porto. Visitors can explore the catacombs, which contain a collection of ossuaries and a glass floor exposing ancient burial sites. The church also houses a museum containing religious artifacts, including paintings and sculptures from the 15th to 18th centuries. The Tree of Jesse, a 1718 gilded wood carving, is one of the most significant artistic pieces within the church. Photography is strictly prohibited inside the main nave and the church interior. The site operates under the administration of the Venerable Third Order of Saint Francis.

Insider tips

• Visit the catacombs level for a different perspective on the church's history and burial practices.

• Respect the strict no-photography policy inside the church to avoid being asked to leave.

• Allow extra time for the attached museum, as it contains significant historical artifacts not visible in the main church.