Espacio Odeón🎭 culture
This contemporary arts center is uniquely housed in the brutalist architectural remains of what was once one of the city's first cinemas.
🌐 espacioodeon.com🕒 We-Sa 11:00-18:00
Plizio Visual Lab
Church of San Francisco (Bogotá)
Plizio editorial teamData Sources
Historical site
The Church of San Francisco in Bogotá is the city's oldest surviving church and a prominent example of 16th-century Spanish colonial architecture. Construction began in 1550 under the direction of the Franciscan order and was largely completed by 1567, originally serving as part of an extensive monastery complex. The church is world-renowned for its magnificent 17th-century Baroque main altarpiece, which is heavily gilded in gold leaf and considered one of the most significant works of colonial art in the former Viceroyalty of New Granada. Over the centuries, the building has withstood several major earthquakes, most notably the 1785 quake which necessitated extensive structural restorations. Its interior houses a precious collection of religious artworks, including woodcarvings and paintings by notable colonial-era artists. Today, the church stands as a National Monument and remains a central site for religious ceremonies and a key historical landmark in downtown Bogotá.
- Location: Colombia
- Top sights: Espacio Odeón · Gold Museum · Galeria Artesanal de la 16
- Nearby: Chía (8 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 16 | 16 | 16 | 16 | 15 | 15 | 14 | 15 | 15 | 16 | 16 | 16 |
| Rain mm | 40 | 63 | 147 | 264 | 293 | 242 | 214 | 171 | 145 | 229 | 203 | 113 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
San Francisco Church in Bogotá is open to visitors and can be viewed inside. The spectacular 17th-century wood-carved altar is the main attraction.
Typical hours
The church is usually open daily, but exact hours may vary according to the service schedule. A morning visit is recommended.
Photography
Photography inside is usually allowed without flash. The gilding and wood carvings of the altar provide fantastic subjects, but avoid direct sunlight.
Time needed
Allow about 20-30 minutes for the church itself. If you visit the entire historical complex with the cloister, 45 minutes suffice.
Combine with
The church is right on Plaza de San Francisco in Bogotá's historic center. It can be ideally combined with the Gold Museum and the Casa de la Moneda.
Getting there
The church is easily reachable by TransMilenio bus (Museo del Oro station) or on foot from Carrera 7. From Plaza Bolívar it's about a 10-minute walk.
Insider tip
Visit the adjoining cloister, which gives a quiet inner courtyard - a convenient spot for a short break from the bustle. The Museum of Religious Art is often also open.
Geography
Facts
- The church was constructed between 1550 and 1567.
- The gilded Baroque main altarpiece dates back to the 17th century.
- It survived a major earthquake in 1785 that damaged much of the city.
- Located at the intersection of Avenida Jiménez and Carrera Séptima.
- It was originally part of a massive Franciscan monastery complex.
- The church was officially designated as a National Monument in 1975.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Church of San Francisco (Bogotá) (6)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
When is the church open?
The church is usually open from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM; avoid sightseeing during Masses.
What is special about the interior?
It is famous for its magnificent gilded altar from the colonial period.
Is there an entrance fee?
Entry is free, but modest donations for church maintenance are welcome.
Where is the church located?
In central Bogotá, at the intersection of Avenida Jiménez and Carrera Séptima.
Is photography allowed?
Generally, photography without flash is allowed as long as you do not disturb the worshipers.
Church of San Francisco (Bogotá): where is it located?
Church of San Francisco (Bogotá) is located in Colombia.
Church of San Francisco (Bogotá): what is there to see?
Highlights include Espacio Odeón, Gold Museum, Galeria Artesanal de la 16.
Church of San Francisco (Bogotá): when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
Church of San Francisco (Bogotá): why is it worth visiting?
The Church of San Francisco in Bogotá is the city's oldest surviving church and a prominent example of 16th-century Spanish colonial architecture.
Explore with Plizio
Discover more places in South America
More places in Colombia →
Nearby cities
Soacha
Large suburb of Bogotá with rich indigenous history.
Facatativá
Agricultural and industrial city near Bogotá.
Zipaquirá
Historic city world-famous for its underground salt cathedral.
Chía
Northern suburb of Bogotá, known as the city of the moon.
Girardot
A bustling riverside resort city that serves as a popular warm-weather weekend getaway for Bogotá residents.
Guatavita
Guatavita is a charming Colombian town known for its striking white-washed colonial architecture and its proximity to the sacred Lake Gua…
History & landmarks
Nature
More places
La Candelaria
The historic neighborhood of Bogotá, known for its steep streets, colonial houses, and rich history.
Museum of Independence - Casa del Florero
The historical house in Bogotá where a dispute over a flower vase on July 20, 1810, sparked the independence movement.
Primary Cathedral of Colombia
A neoclassical cathedral on the Plaza de Bolívar in Bogotá, the largest in the country.
Capitolio Nacional
The seat of the Colombian Congress, a magnificent neoclassical building located on the Plaza de Bolívar.
Casa de Nariño
The official home of the President of Colombia, named after independence leader Antonio Nariño.
La Sabana Railway Station
The historical main railway station of Bogotá, a national monument of early 20th-century architecture.
Parque Jaime Duque
A family theme park near Bogotá featuring replicas of world wonders and a zoo.
Bavaria Brewery Tocancipá
One of the largest and most modern breweries in Latin America, producing the most famous Colombian beer brands.