Iglesia San Blas de Illescas facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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Church San Blas de Illescas of Coamo
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 Iglesia San Blas de Illescas
Location in Puerto Rico
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| Location | Mario Braschi Street, Town Plaza Coamo, Puerto Rico |
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| Area | 0.5 acres (0.20 ha) |
| Built | 1661 |
| Architectural style | Spanish Colonial-Latin American Baroque Revival |
| MPS | Historic Churches of Puerto Rico TR |
| NRHP reference No. | 84000463 |
| Added to NRHP | December 10, 1984 |
The Iglesia San Blas de Illescas (which means Church of Saint Blaise of Illescas in English) is a beautiful Catholic church. It stands proudly on the main plaza in Coamo, Puerto Rico. Building this church started way back in 1661.
Experts today say it is "one of the most important works of religious architecture in Puerto Rico." This means it's a very special and important building. The church has a lovely curved front, called a Baroque facade. This part was rebuilt in 1784. It also has a tall bell tower with open arches and bells. This church is home to one of the oldest parishes (church communities) on the island.
History of the Church
The construction of the Iglesia San Blas de Illescas began in 1661. This makes it one of the oldest churches in Puerto Rico. Over the years, it has seen many changes and updates. A big reconstruction happened in 1784. This gave the church its beautiful Baroque style front.
The church is a key part of the town's history. It shows the Spanish Colonial style. This was popular when Spain ruled Puerto Rico. It also has elements of Baroque Revival design. This style brings back the grand and decorative look of the Baroque period.
Design and Features
The church stands above the town plaza. You reach it by walking up a series of steps. A pretty cast iron fence separates the church from the open space. The front of the church is very detailed. It has a special design that makes it look grand.
A notable part of the church is its bell-gable. This is a two-level structure on the facade. It holds the church bells in open arches. This design is common in older churches. It adds to the church's unique look. The church is a great example of old religious buildings in Puerto Rico.
See also
- List of the oldest buildings in Puerto Rico
In Spanish: Iglesia de San Blas de Illescas (Coamo) para niños
