Iglesia de San Frantzisko Eleiza med klostret
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San Francisco Convent and Cloister

4.5
·22 reviews·Bermeo, Spain

A stunning Gothic church and cloister, rich in history, art, and local legends.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration

CrowdLow
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Iglesia de San Frantzisko Eleiza med klostret

San Francisco Convent and Cloister

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A stunning Gothic church and cloister, rich in history, art, and local legends.

4.5
(22 reviews)

"The elegant and simple cloister is well worth seeing."

Vertical photo
TIP

Check Hours Before Visiting

Some visitors found it unexpectedly closed. Always verify opening times to avoid disappointment. :clock1:

Don't Skip the Cloister

The cloister is a highlight for many, offering a beautiful and tranquil escape. :park:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Grand Church

The Grand Church

Main Sanctuary

A stunning Gothic church with a beautifully sculpted portal and unique, atmospheric lighting.

Elegant Cloister

Elegant Cloister

Adjoining Cloister

A serene and simple cloister, praised by visitors for its beauty and peaceful ambiance.

Sculpted Portal

Sculpted Portal

Church Facade

Admire the intricate details of the Gothic-origin portal, a testament to the convent's rich history.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything

Check opening hours before you go, as some visitors found it closed unexpectedly. Consider visiting during weekdays to avoid larger crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience exploring the church and cloister.

Explore Beyond the Altar

Don't miss the elegant cloister, which many visitors rave about. The church itself boasts Gothic origins with a sculpted portal and unique periodic lighting in its chapels.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoons
Why
Warmer stone interiors
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Está hermosa esta Iglesia 🥹😭#fyp #sanfrancisco #559 #catholicchurch #fyp #sanjudastadeo💚
@karitomza
42.8K likes • 311K views

Check Hours Before Visiting

Some visitors found it unexpectedly closed. Always verify opening times to avoid disappointment. :clock1:

Don't Skip the Cloister

The cloister is a highlight for many, offering a beautiful and tranquil escape. :park:

Iglesia San Francisco ❤️ @Alex Olivo #iglesiacatolica #diosesamor #parejasgoals #quito_ecuador #dios
@_leonelaherrera
40.3K likes • 532.2K views
Cantuña el único que pudo engañar al diablo #quito #uio #turismoecuador #estasenecuador #lugaresparavisitar #turismo #iglesia #iglesiasanfrancisco
@estasenecuador
14.5K likes • 692.6K views

Appreciate the Lighting

The periodic lighting in the chapels adds a special atmosphere to the church. :bulb:

Gothic Architecture Gem

Marvel at the sculpted portal and Gothic origins of this historic church. :classical_building:

#quito #iglesiadesanfrancisco #paulinatamayo #frasesdeamor
@leonardoxavier.ec
10.3K likes • 318K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Check Hours Before Visiting

Some visitors found it unexpectedly closed. Always verify opening times to avoid disappointment. :clock1:

Don't Skip the Cloister

The cloister is a highlight for many, offering a beautiful and tranquil escape. :park:

Appreciate the Lighting

The periodic lighting in the chapels adds a special atmosphere to the church. :bulb:

Gothic Architecture Gem

Marvel at the sculpted portal and Gothic origins of this historic church. :classical_building:

What Travellers Say

4.5
(22 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the San Francisco Convent and Cloister for its beautiful Gothic architecture, especially the sculpted portal and the serene cloister. The unique lighting within the chapels adds to its atmospheric charm. However, some have experienced unexpected closures, highlighting the importance of checking opening hours.

"I really liked the cloister."

Pecharromán

"A grand church of Gothic origin. The portal is sculpted and preceded by a later portico. The periodic lighting of the High Altar and the chapels as you enter them are welcome touches. The elegant and simple cloister is well worth seeing."

Paco M.F.

"Very pretty, we walked past there and went in, the church and cloister are beautiful."

Lau

What People Like

Beautiful Gothic architecture
Serene cloister
Unique interior lighting

What People Dislike

Occasional unexpected closures

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The convent is located in the historic center of Quito, Ecuador.TikTok+2 It's easily accessible by public transport or taxi within the city. Many visitors explore it as part of a walking tour of the historic district.TikTok

Parking in Quito's historic center can be challenging. It's often recommended to use public transport or ride-sharing services to reach the convent.

Yes, if you are staying in or near the historic center, the convent is within walking distance of many other key sites like Plaza Grande.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Opening hours can vary, and some visitors have reported finding it closed unexpectedly. It's crucial to check the most current hours before your visit.Reddit

While the church itself might be free to enter, there can be fees for specific areas like the cloister or any special tours. Some sources mention a small fee for foreign visitors for certain tours.TikTok

For general entry, advance booking is usually not required. However, if you plan to take a guided tour, it's advisable to inquire about booking procedures.

Yes, guided tours are often available and can provide deeper insights into the history and art of the convent and cloister.TikTok+1

Tickets for tours can typically be purchased on-site. For general entry, you can usually enter directly.

🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience

Visitors can admire the grand Gothic church with its sculpted portal, the elegant and simple cloister, and chapels with unique periodic lighting.Reddit Legends about deceiving the devil are also associated with the church.TikTok

The architecture and art within the convent and cloister offer many beautiful photo opportunities. Remember to be respectful of the sacred space when taking pictures.TikTok

A visit can range from 1 to 2 hours, depending on your interest in the architecture, history, and whether you take a guided tour.

The main church area is generally accessible, but some older parts of historic sites might have limitations. It's best to inquire about specific accessibility details if needed.

Yes, there's a famous legend about Cantuña, who is said to have deceived the devil himself within the church.TikTok+1 There are also mentions of eerie experiences in empty churches.TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Typically, there are no dining facilities directly within the convent or cloister itself. However, the surrounding historic center of Quito is filled with numerous restaurants and cafes offering local and international cuisine.

You'll find a wide variety of options, from traditional Ecuadorian dishes like locro de papa and empanadas to international fare. Many eateries offer great views of the historic architecture.

Yes, the historic center has many local eateries and markets where you can find affordable and delicious meals. Look for 'almuerzos' (set lunches) for good value.

📸 📸 Photography

The intricately sculpted portal, the serene cloister, and the atmospheric chapels with their unique lighting are prime spots for photography.Reddit The grand altar area also offers impressive shots.

While generally allowed, it's always good practice to be discreet and respectful, especially in active religious areas. Some specific exhibits or areas might have 'no photography' signs.

Morning light can be beautiful for capturing the exterior and the cloister. The interior's unique lighting system is designed to create atmosphere, so any time during opening hours can be visually interesting.

Tripod usage might be restricted, especially during busy periods, to avoid obstructing other visitors. It's best to check on-site regulations.

Photos highlighting the detailed architecture, the peaceful cloister, and the dramatic interior lighting are popular on platforms like TikTok and Instagram.TikTok+2

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The San Francisco Convent and Cloister can be an engaging visit for families, offering a blend of history and intriguing local legends. The grand church and its sculpted portal can spark curiosity in children about past eras and craftsmanship.Reddit The legend of Cantuña outsmarting the devil is a story that might capture young imaginations.TikTok+1

While the cloister offers a quiet space, the main church's architecture and unique lighting might be more captivating for younger visitors. Consider focusing on the visual aspects and the stories to keep them engaged. Ensure you check opening hours beforehand, as unexpected closures can be disruptive for family outings.Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photography lovers, the San Francisco Convent and Cloister presents a wealth of opportunities. The Gothic architecture, particularly the sculpted portal, offers intricate details to capture.Reddit The elegant cloister provides a serene backdrop with its clean lines and peaceful ambiance, perfect for architectural shots.Reddit

The periodic lighting within the chapels creates dramatic and atmospheric scenes, ideal for low-light photography. Social media content often highlights these visually striking elements.TikTok+2 Be mindful of any on-site photography restrictions, especially regarding tripods, and always be respectful of the sacred nature of the site.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Glimpse into History and Legend

The San Francisco Convent and Cloister is a significant architectural complex with deep historical roots. Its Gothic origins are evident in its structure, particularly the sculpted portal that graces its facade.Reddit This ancient site is not just a place of worship but also a repository of local lore. One of the most captivating tales associated with the church is the legend of Cantuña, who is said to have outsmarted the devil himself within its walls.TikTok+1 This blend of history and folklore adds a layer of mystique to the visitor experience.

Beyond the grand church, the elegant and simple cloister offers a tranquil space for reflection.Reddit Many visitors find this area particularly serene and beautiful, providing a peaceful contrast to the grandeur of the main sanctuary. The convent's architecture is further enhanced by its unique periodic lighting of the High Altar and chapels, creating an atmospheric and memorable visit.Reddit Some accounts even touch upon eerie experiences within seemingly empty churches, adding to the site's enigmatic aura.TikTok

Architectural Marvels and Ambiance

The San Francisco Convent and Cloister stands as a testament to Gothic architectural influences, featuring a grand church with a meticulously sculpted portal.Reddit The structure is described as quite warm, largely constructed from stone, offering a unique tactile and visual experience.Reddit The interior design includes a welcome touch of periodic lighting that illuminates the High Altar and chapels as visitors move through them, enhancing the spiritual and aesthetic ambiance.Reddit

Many visitors are drawn to the elegant and simple cloister, which is consistently praised for its beauty and peaceful atmosphere.Reddit This adjoining space provides a serene counterpoint to the main church, inviting quiet contemplation. The overall impression is one of historical significance combined with artistic merit, making it a must-see for those interested in architecture and cultural heritage. The visual appeal is strong, making it a popular subject for photography on social media.TikTok+2

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