ANTIGUA GUATEMALA, Guatemala — An ornately decorated altar with extensive gold lining depicting Our Lady of Guadalupe [Nuestra Senora de Guadalupe] in the Iglesia de San Francisco (Church of San Francis). The church is most well known as the resting place and tomb of Santo Hermano Pedro de San Jose de Bethancourt (Saint Herman Pedro of Stain Joseph of Bethancourt), a locally revered figure from the 16th century who build a local hospital for the poor, amongst other things.
Photograph by David Coleman. The Iglesia de San Francisco in Antigua Guatemala stands as a striking example of colonial baroque architecture. Its pale yellow facade, weathered by centuries of sun and rain, rises impressively against the backdrop of a clear Guatemalan sky. The church's intricate stonework showcases the skill of colonial craftsmen, with ornate carvings and religious statues adorning the front. The central entrance is framed by elaborate columns and arches, typical of the baroque style that dominated religious architecture in colonial Latin America. To one side, the bell tower reaches skyward, its simple lines contrasting with the ornate detail of the main facade. This tower, like many in Antigua, was built to withstand the frequent earthquakes that have shaped the city's history. The Iglesia de San Francisco holds particular significance as the burial place of Saint Brother Pedro, making it an important pilgrimage site. Its partially ruined state, a result of past earthquakes, adds to its historical allure and serves as a testament to Antigua's resilience in the face of natural disasters. This church, with its blend of architectural grandeur and historical importance, encapsulates the rich cultural and religious heritage of Antigua Guatemala, drawing both worshippers and admirers of colonial art and architecture.
Size: 2849px × 4290px
Location: Iglesia de San Francisco , Antigua Guatemala, Sacatepéquez Department, Guatemala
Photo credit: © David Coleman | Have Camera Will Travel / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No
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