Erected in 1640 simultaneously with the Plaza del Cristo around the Ermita del Humilladero–the final station of the Vía Crucis or procession of the Stations of the Cross on Good Friday, which started out at the San Francisco de Asís convent–very little remains of the original building. The present edifice, which still holds religious services, was expanded with three new sections and chapels. Around the mid-18th century, a new façade was also built and the ground plan adopted the shape of a Latin cross.
The octagon-shaped towers on the façade are a rarity in Cuban religious architecture, as well as the unusual balcony at the center of the façade. In 1932 two new naves were added to escort the old single one. Despite the numerous changes, it still has the spirit of a colonial building. Access to the interior is through a deep splayed arch, perhaps deliberately echoing the Church of Saint Francis of Assisi. Of the original building, only the enclosure and painted wood ceiling still remain.
Opening hours: 9am-noon & 3-6pm, Tues-Sun
Renaissance
