St. Francis of Assisi Church, Oranjestad 🇦🇼

If you are exploring Oranjestad, Aruba, a visit to the St. Francis of Assisi Church offers a meaningful look into one of the island's most important religious sites. Built in 1829, this historic Catholic church follows the Roman or Latin rite and operates within the Diocese of Willemstad. Also known alternatively as the Pro Cathedral of St.

Francis of Assisi, it currently serves as the pro-cathedral or temporary cathedral for the city of Oranjestad, located on this beautiful Caribbean island within the Lesser Antilles. Local residents also know this landmark by its Papiamento name, Parokia San Francisco di Asis, as well as its Dutch name, Sint Franciscus Kerk. As an autonomous country within the Kingdom of the Netherlands, Aruba holds this sacred building in high regard as one of its paramount places of worship. Visitors attending services here can experience mass spoken in both Papiamento and English, making it very welcoming for travelers who want to connect with the local community.

Whether you refer to it as Sint Franciscus Kerk or the Pro Cathedral of St. Francis of Assisi, this 1829 Roman Catholic sanctuary stands as an important, central spiritual hub right in the heart of Oranjestad.

What to see at St. Francis of Assisi Church, Oranjestad

• Built in 1829 as one of Aruba's most important churches
• Serves as the pro-cathedral or temporary cathedral in Oranjestad
• Part of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Willemstad
• Offers religious services in both Papiamento and English

Visiting tips

You can choose to attend religious services spoken in either English or Papiamento depending on your preference.

How long: 1 hour · Best time: During scheduled service times

How to get there & what’s nearby

St. Francis of Assisi Church, Oranjestad is easy to reach on Oranjestad’s public transport, and pairs naturally with St Ann's Church. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Oranjestad travel guide.