The Historic Center of Lima has dozens of colonial churches, built by the religious orders that arrived after the Spanish conquest. Many were rebuilt after earthquakes, and today they show a mix of Renaissance, Baroque and Neoclassical styles, with gilded altarpieces and colonial paintings.
Santo Domingo
One block from the Plaza Mayor, the Church and Convent of Santo Domingo was founded by the Dominicans in the first years of the city. It keeps the relics of two of the most beloved saints of Peru, Saint Rose of Lima and Saint Martin de Porres, and its cloisters are decorated with Sevillian tiles. The first university of the Americas, San Marcos, began its classes here in 1551.
La Merced
On Jirón de la Unión, the Basilica of La Merced stands on the site where, according to tradition, the first mass in Lima was celebrated. Its stone façade, richly carved in Baroque style, is one of the most photographed in the city.
San Pedro
Built by the Jesuits in the 17th century, the Church of San Pedro is one of the most richly decorated in Lima, with gilded altarpieces, paintings and carved wood. Its interior is a fine example of colonial art.
Las Nazarenas
The Church of Las Nazarenas keeps the wall where an Angolan slave painted the image of the Lord of Miracles in the 17th century. Every October, the city’s largest procession leaves from here.
Visit the churches of Lima
With a private guide you can choose which churches to visit according to your interests. Ask us about our Lima Private City Tour.