The complex began to be built in the second half of the thirteenth century, as reported in a deed of transfer of the land to the conventuals, coming to include, in addition to the church, also a cloister and a convent.
We know that inside there were splendid altarpieces, paintings, and ornaments that embellished the place so much that it seemed like a museum . Some testimonies of this glorious past are now preserved in the National Art Gallery of Cagliari. The complex remained in use until 1861. It then became a barracks, and when lightning struck the church, causing the roof to collapse, it began to be demolished.
Yet, many of the buildings that now occupy that block still retain traces of the ancient complex . It's not uncommon, in fact, to unknowingly find yourself in spaces that once belonged to a sacred place. Just look up to see vaulted ceilings and stone arches; for those who aren't paying close attention, a plaque along Corso Vittorio Emanuele II recalls the origins of this space.
On the opposite side of Via Mameli, the remains of the cloister are still clearly visible, described by Canon Giovanni Spano as the most beautiful among the convents in Sardinia. Near the church, a sarcophagus with a carved coat of arms was found. Over the years, after various vicissitudes, it was also used as a drinking trough before being preserved in the Decimomannu cemetery. It is attributed to Violante Carroz, who retired here for penance and remained there until her death.
Another trace of this ancient complex was also present at the entrance to the Sanctuary of Bonaria. The old door of the church of San Francesco appears to have been reused as the door to the Sanctuary and was still recognizable before being covered by the panels visible today.
