8 Historic churches in Lima

The city of Lima, known as the City of Kings, was founded in 1535 and preserves a unique religious architectural richness in South America. Among its colonial streets stand majestic temples, convents, and churches that are part of Peru’s viceregal and spiritual legacy.

If you are planning a tour of the historic center, don’t miss these 8 emblematic churches in Lima that combine art, faith, and history. Discover their location, architecture, and what makes them so special!

1. Lima Cathedral: The Religious Heart of the City

Location: Jirón Carabaya s/n, in front of the Plaza Mayor (Main Square)
Entry Fee: S/10 adults – S/2 children

The imposing Lima Cathedral is the country’s main Catholic temple. Its Renaissance-style facade and Baroque interior house 13 ornate chapels, gold leaf altars, and the tomb of Francisco Pizarro, founder of the city. It is an architectural icon that shines brightly, especially at night, thanks to its artistic lighting system.

2. Church and Convent of San Francisco: Catacombs and Colonial Art

Location: Corner of Jirón Ancash and Jirón Lampa, Lima
Entry Fee: S/15 adults – S/8 university students – S/3 children

Famous for its underground catacombs, where the remains of over 25 thousand people rest, this jewel of Lima’s Baroque also preserves a valuable art gallery with canvases from the Cusco School. Its colonial library and interior patios are must-sees for history and architecture lovers.

3. Sanctuary of Las Nazarenas: Home of the Lord of Miracles

Location: Jirón Huancavelica 515, Cercado de Lima
Entry Fee: Free

This temple venerates the Lord of Miracles, the most emblematic religious image in Peru. Every October, thousands of faithful dress in purple to accompany its procession through the streets of Lima. The interior of the church shines with its altarpieces, gold leaf decorations, and its atmosphere of devotion.

4. Sanctuary of Santa Rosa de Lima: Where the Patroness of America Was Born

Location: Av. Tacna 100, Cercado de Lima
Entry Fee: Free

Santa Rosa de Lima, the first saint of the Americas, was born and lived here. The temple was built in the 18th century and has been restored several times. Today it is one of the most visited sanctuaries, especially every August 30th, her feast day. It includes a small chapel, gardens, and the famous well of wishes.

5. Church and Convent of Santo Domingo: Temple of Peruvian Saints

Location: Jirón Camaná 170, Centro de Lima
Entry Fee: S/7 general – S/3.50 students – S/1 schoolchildren

This Dominican convent, one of the oldest in Lima, houses the remains of Santa Rosa de Lima, San Martín de Porres, and San Juan Macías. Its architecture blends Rococo with Mudejar influences. Its pink tower is one of the most recognized visual icons of the historic center.

6. Convent of Los Descalzos: Hidden Treasure in Rímac

Location: Alameda de los Descalzos s/n, Rímac district
Entry Fee: S/7 adults – S/3 seniors (over 65) – S/2 children

Founded in 1595 by the Franciscans, this convent resembles an old viceregal hacienda, with simple architecture but surprising artistic wealth. It houses a collection of over 300 canvases, religious sculptures, antique furniture, and a colonial library.

7. Church and Convent of San Pedro: Jesuit Art in the Heart of the Center

Location: Jirón Azángaro 451, Lima
Entry Fee: Free

Founded by the Jesuits in 1568, the Church of San Pedro is a treasure of Lima’s Baroque, inspired by the Gesù in Rome. Its interior features golden altars, majestic altarpieces, and period stained glass windows. The adjoining convent still retains part of the missionary spirit of the Society of Jesus in the Viceroyalty.

8. Church of La Merced: Baroque at Its Finest

Location: Jirón de la Unión 621, Cercado de Lima
Entry Fee: Free

This church, built in 1535, is one of the first in Lima and an exceptional example of Lima’s Churrigueresque Baroque. Its carved facade, the sculptures of the Virgin of La Merced, and the interior altarpieces make this temple a true living museum of viceregal art.

Explore Downtown Lima Through Its Religious History

These eight churches represent the spirituality, art, and history of Lima. They are testaments to the city’s colonial past and today remain spaces of devotion, sacred art, and cultural tourism. By visiting them, you will not only admire their architecture but also understand how Lima became one of the most important cities of the viceroyalty.