Located in Old Havana, the Basílica Menor de San Francisco de Asís is a historic Catholic minor basilica and former Franciscan convent. Construction originally began in 1548, but after suffering damage from 17th-century storms and a 1694 hurricane, the building took on its current late colonial Baroque form starting in 1716. Over the centuries, this UNESCO World Heritage site served as a worship place for British forces during the 1762 occupation, Cuba's General Post Office starting in 1842, and various government departments.
Today, you can visit this remarkable historic space to attend musical concerts or explore its attached 1739 monastery cloister, which now houses a museum of sacred art. When you arrive at the facade on Calle Oficios, you will notice stone statues representing the Immaculate Conception, Francis of Assisi, and Saint Dominic. Outside, look for the 138-foot bell tower and a statue of Fray Junípero Serra.
On the sidewalk, you can admire Jose Villa Soberon's life-size bronze statue of El Caballero de Paris, who is buried inside. Step into the adjacent plaza to see Giuseppe Gaggini's 1836 Fuente de los Leones.
What to see at Basilica Menor de San Francisco de Asis
- Calle Oficios facade featuring stone statues of the Immaculate Conception, Francis of Assisi, and Saint Dominic
- Monastery cloister dating to 1739 that houses a museum of sacred art
- Life-size bronze statue by Jose Villa Soberon depicting El Caballero de Paris, who is buried inside
- 138-foot bell tower and adjacent statue of Fray Junípero Serra with a Juaneño Indian boy
- Plaza de San Francisco de Asís featuring Giuseppe Gaggini's 1836 Fuente de los Leones
Visiting tips
Check the basilica's schedule during your visit if you would like to attend a live musical concert inside the historic space.
How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Morning
How to get there & what’s nearby
Basilica Menor de San Francisco de Asis is easy to reach on Havana’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Havana Cathedral and Museum of the Revolution. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Havana travel guide.
See the full Havana travel guide for where to stay, the best time to visit and the top things to do.