Information
Landmark: Sanggar Agung TempleCity: Surabaya
Country: Indonesia
Continent: Asia
Sanggar Agung Temple, Surabaya, Indonesia, Asia
The Iglesia de San Francisco is a Roman Catholic church located in Castro, Chiloé Province, Chile.
Visual Characteristics
Constructed primarily from wood, the church features a distinctive neo-Gothic architectural style. Its exterior is painted a deep blue, with white trim accentuating the pointed arches and spires. The main nave reaches a height of approximately 25 meters. The bell tower is square at its base, tapering to an octagonal spire.
Location & Access Logistics
The church is situated in the central plaza of Castro, directly on Calle Blanco Encalada. It is approximately 1.5 kilometers from the main bus terminal. Limited street parking is available in the surrounding blocks. Several local bus routes stop within a 200-meter radius of the plaza.
Historical & Ecological Origin
Construction of the current structure began in 1910 and was completed in 1912. It was designed by the French architect Eduardo Provasoli. The church was built to replace an earlier wooden structure that had fallen into disrepair. It serves as the main parish church for the city of Castro.
Key Highlights & Activities
Visitors can observe the intricate wooden carvings and stained-glass windows within the nave. The church is open for public viewing during daylight hours when services are not in progress. Photography inside the church is permitted without flash.
Infrastructure & Amenities
Restrooms are available in a separate building adjacent to the church, accessible from the plaza. There is no dedicated shade within the church itself, but the plaza offers shaded benches. Cell phone signal (4G) is generally strong in this central area. Food vendors and cafes are located around the plaza.
Best Time to Visit
For optimal interior lighting and fewer crowds, visit between 10:00 AM and 12:00 PM on weekdays. The months of December through February offer the most stable weather conditions, with less rainfall.
Facts & Legends
A local legend suggests that the church's blue color was chosen to represent the sea that surrounds Chiloé, symbolizing the deep connection of the islanders to the ocean. The wooden construction techniques employed are characteristic of the traditional Chilotan carpentry.
Nearby Landmarks
- Museo Regional de Ancud (18km Northwest)
- Fuerte San Miguel de Agüi (22km Southwest)
- Parque Nacional Chiloé (35km East)
- Iglesia de Achao (40km Northeast)