Iglesia Parroquial de San Francisco

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Come and explore Altea's architectural heritage—and be sure to include this church on your itinerary.

La Iglesia Parroquial de San Francisco (St Francis’ Parish Church) in Altea is a lovely church to add to your Alicante itinerary. Also known locally as El Convent, it forms part of the original Franciscan convent complex. The area has kept its historic place name, alongside the row of adjoining houses that still evoke 19th-century Altea.

The wider ensemble includes other notable buildings such as the historic Casino de Peparra, with its original terraces, and the first houses along the Costera de Montcau, creating a particularly interesting corner of town.

Work on the complex began in 1728, and it once included a cloister, refectory, kitchens, cells, the Prior's quarters, an orchard, cemetery, hospice and hospital, as well as rooms used for teaching.

Inside, the church's architecture is simple and unmistakably Franciscan, with sturdy transverse arches, pilasters and a generous cornice that brings order and rhythm to the space. It’s a spot steeped in history—and a great starting point for discovering more of what to see in Altea.