The Concello de A Coruña has commenced renovation works aimed at improving accessibility at the San Francisco convent, a significant heritage site in the city's historic centre, which dates back to the early days of A Coruña. The project involves an investment of almost €169,000.
Originally built outside the old fortifications, the convent was later incorporated into the city's defensive system during the military reinforcement initiated by King Philip II. This intervention is part of the municipal efforts to enhance the conditions of archaeological and heritage elements throughout the city, positioning them centrally within the cultural and educational offerings.
The renovation aims to facilitate visits to the site for both individuals and groups, while ensuring compliance with protection and conservation criteria for the archaeological remains. Additionally, it seeks to improve visitors' understanding and interpretation of the archaeological features.
The works will include extending the stone slab pavement between the building's base and the new perimeter closure of the exposed archaeological site, cleaning and restoring the façades of the Church of the Third Order and the adjoining Military Museum, as well as the stone remnants of the nave of the former convent church. The project will also consolidate the wall connecting the church tower and the Military Museum.
Furthermore, the existing grilles on the windows of the Military Museum's adjoining wall will be replaced with metal panels, and the façade will be uniformly painted in a dark colour to enhance the interpretation of the stone structures. Other specific architectural recovery works will also be undertaken in the vicinity.
All interventions will adhere to established criteria for heritage elements, focusing on reversibility, minimal intervention, minimal interference with archaeological remains, and low impact on the landscape.
