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Over the centuries one thing still remains intact with the Peruvians. It has remained a Christian country, with about 80% Catholic. You will find churches on just about every street corner where the locals, today, still gather to worship. The rich history can be experienced by visiting some of the oldest churches still standing. Much restoration of these landmark cathedrals is being done to keep the heart of religion and the essence of its beauty alive. Below is a list of suggested churches and cathedrals that are recommended to stop and visit on your journey through the ancient doors of time.
CATEDRAL DE LIMA
Established 1645, this cathedral displays the exceptional carvings and mosaics throughout, with an adjoining museum, Museo de Arte Religioso de la Catedral de Lima, displaying paintings, sculptures and religious objects to view.
San Francisco Church
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IGLESIA Y CONVENTO DE SAN FRANCISCO
This church and convent is next to the Cathedral of Lima and is one of the most recognized religious structures in all of Latin America. In it you will view the beautifully preserved wooden stairs, small chapels, the impressive library with 25,000 volumes, and patios with a Spanish flare in the ceramic tiles. Most interesting, and the highlight of the tour, is the convents catacombs where some 80,000 deceased are buried. It is recommended to hire a tour guide to get the full impact of this historical monument.
IGLESIA DE SANTA ROSA
The Church of Saint Rosa was built where Santa Rosa, the patron saint of Lima was born. The Dominican sister established a hospital in her home for the poor. You can see some of her relics at this church. Every August 30th a feast is held in her honor and is one of the most celebrated days in the Peruvian religious calendar.
IGLESIA DE LAS NAZARENAS
This church was built in the style of the rococo, on the grounds of the old black ghetto of Pachacamilla. In 1651, we are told, a black slave from Angola painted the crucified Christ on the wall of one of the barracks. The slaves paid homage to this painting by night. It survived several disastrous earthquakes in 1655 and was untouched. A copy of it was made and carried through the streets of Lima. Every year, in October, a procession takes place in which this image of Senor de los Milagros (The Lord of Miracles) is worshiped.
INGLESIA Y CONVENTO SANTO DOMINGO
The first thing that one thinks of when they hear the name of this church is the very peculiar steeple that rests atop this unique structure. It is known for being the only church with a real steeple. Visit the monastery and admire its patios and the surrounding beauty of the Spanish décor of its interior.
IGLESIA Y CONVENTO SAN PEDRO
These Jesuit church dates back to the 17th century with magnificent arcades and altars decorated with gold and many religious paintings from colonial times.
IGLESIA LA MERCED
This church dates back to 1534 with its small wooden structure. The focal point of the church is the cross of Padre Urraca, who is believed to have performed many miracles.
IGLESIA SAN AUGUSTINM
Built in 1574 the arcades, the choir stalls with incredible wooden carvings, the magnificent ceilings and the wooden sculpture of La Muerte (the death) are the attractions that draw attention to this ancient church.
IGLESIA JESUS, MARIA Y JOSE
1678 is when this simple church opened its doors, but the earthquakes of 1687 and 1746 nearly destroyed it. Restored to its simplicity, its charm displays beautiful altars with gold leaves.
IGLESIA DE SAN SEBASTIAN
Built in 1544 it is one of the oldest buildings in Lima. Santa Rosa de Lima, the patron saint, and San Martin de Porres, the first black saint, were baptized here. It was severely damaged by a powerful earthquake in 1940 and was wonderfully rebuilt after that.
CONVENTO DE LOS DESCALZOS
Take a guided tour of this beautiful church, convent and the museum that holds about 300 paintings of the Lima, Cusco and Quito School. View the cells of the monks, the dining room, infirmary, pharmacy and its two chapels.
