Torre de Sant Francesc

The Torre de Sant Francesc is the name used for the Franciscan church of Sant Francesc in Maó, also known as Mahón, the capital of Menorca. It stands on a small hilltop square in the old town, close to the harbour and a short walk from the Plaça de s'Esplanada, and its large dome and bell tower make it one of the landmarks of the skyline. The Franciscans founded a convent here in the fifteenth century, and the church and cloister that survive today were rebuilt in the eighteenth century, when the island was under British rule. Work on the Baroque church began early in the century and was completed in the 1790s.

The church is a good example of island Baroque architecture, which is plain and robust compared with the style of mainland Spain. It has a single wide nave covered by a barrel vault, with side chapels between the buttresses, and a large dome over the crossing that brings light into the centre of the space. The pale stone walls and the relative lack of decoration give a spacious, calm interior. The façade is simple but well proportioned, with a stone portal and a bell tower rising at one side, and the carved decoration is concentrated around the main entrance. An organ, which is used for concerts, adds to the character of the building.

The convent buildings attached to the church house the Museu de Menorca, which tells the history of the island from prehistoric times through the Talaiotic culture, the Roman and Muslim periods and the British and French eras. The cloister, with its arcades and a central courtyard, is a quiet space, and a visit to the church and the museum together gives an understanding of both the religious and the cultural history of Menorca. Concerts and cultural events are held in the church from time to time, and the acoustics are praised.

The area around the church is lively. Maó is known for its natural harbour, one of the longest and deepest in the Mediterranean, and for the British influence that left its mark on the town's architecture, with sash windows and red-painted facades. The town is also known for a local gin made with juniper, and for Mahón cheese. Shops, cafes and restaurants line the streets near the church, and the Port de Mahón is a short walk downhill, with boat trips and waterfront restaurants.

A visit to the church takes about half an hour, and longer if you combine it with the museum. It suits history and architecture lovers and anyone exploring the old town. Opening hours depend on services and the season, so check locally before going.