Iglesia y Convento de San Francisco

"La Iglesia y Convento de San Francisco" (the Church and  convent of St. Francis) is, in fact, the oldest extent structure in Santiago. Linked to the very origins of the city of Santiago, this church has been an icon for the city.  Santiago, founded in 1541, received its first Franciscans in 1554, who were entrusted upon arrival with the terrain that would give rise to the current church.  While the original structure fell during an earthquake, the current church was constructed between 1586 and 1618.  The 2010 earthquake rendered new damage that, for lack of funds, has yet to be repaired.

This image shows the play of light on chairs in the sanctuary.