Attraction Guide: San Francisco Church, Lima, Peru

San Francisco Church Guide

A Glimpse into Lima's Colonial Past: The San Francisco Church and Catacombs Guide

Step back in time at the San Francisco Church, a stunning example of Baroque architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage site in the heart of Lima. More than just a church, it's a complex that includes a monastery, library, and, most famously, a network of catacombs that once served as Lima's primary cemetery. Prepare to be amazed by the intricate details of the church's facade and the eerie atmosphere of the underground tunnels. Construction of the San Francisco Church began in 1546 and was completed in 1672. The church and monastery played a significant role in the religious and social life of colonial Lima. The catacombs, estimated to hold the remains of around 25,000 people, were used until the early 19th century when the city's main cemetery was moved outside the city walls. The library houses a vast collection of antique texts, offering a glimpse into the intellectual life of the colonial era. Visitors can take guided tours of the church, monastery, library, and catacombs. The tours provide fascinating insights into the history of the complex and the lives of the people who lived and worked there. The catacombs are a particularly memorable experience, offering a unique and somewhat unsettling glimpse into the past. The church itself is a masterpiece of colonial architecture, with its ornate altars, beautiful paintings, and impressive dome. While there isn't a specific culinary tradition directly linked to the church, the surrounding area offers a wide variety of traditional Peruvian restaurants.