San Francisco Temple facts for kids
The Templo de San Francisco is a very important Catholic church in Chihuahua, Chihuahua, Mexico. People also call it the Church of St. Francis. It is one of the oldest and most valuable buildings in the city center. You can find it at 15 Calle Libertad.
This church is named after Saint Francis of Assisi. This is because the city of Chihuahua was once called San Francisco El Cuellar. Also, the Franciscans, a group of monks, built and first used the church.
Today, another group of monks, the Dominicans, take care of the church. The building's style is simple and peaceful, like other Franciscan missions. It is always painted white, showing the Franciscans' simple way of life.
History of the San Francisco Church
This church was one of the first buildings in Chihuahua City. Construction started way back in 1717. The plan was to build it in the shape of a latin cross, with a dome in the middle. The main part of the church has looked the same since it was finished in 1789.
The church also served as the first school for young women in Chihuahua. In 1811, something very important happened here. The body of Father Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla was buried in the West Chapel. He is known as the 'Father of the Nation' because he helped Mexico gain independence.
After Mexico became independent, his body was moved to Mexico City. A special marker at the church shows where he was first buried. In 2004, the Church of San Francisco was lit up for the first time. This was for Mexico's Independence Day celebrations on September 16. It is still an active Catholic church today.
Inside the Church
The inside of the Templo de San Francisco is beautiful. It has several important areas and altars. You can see the long main hall, called the Nave. There is also the High Altar, which is the main altar of the church.
The church has special side altars too. One is the West Transept Altar, which has a fancy style called Churrigueresque. There is also a special area called the Chapel of Our Lady of Guadalupe. Each part of the church shows its long history and beautiful art.
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The Nave, the main part of the church.
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The High Altar, where services are held.
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A detailed side altar in the West Transept.
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The Chapel dedicated to Our Lady of Guadalupe.
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The altarpiece in the West Chapel.
See also
In Spanish: Templo de San Francisco de Asís (Chihuahua) para niños
