Get to know the Cathedral of Lima, the most important temple in the Peruvian capital.

One of the best ways to learn more about Lima's history is through its churches. These are not only striking for their impressive architectural beauty, but also because they are home to art, luxury and history. Of all of them, one stands out significantly for its great cultural legacy and majesty: the Cathedral of Lima.

Considered as the main headquarters of the Catholic Church in Peru and with a long history dating back to the 16th century, this religious temple is one of the most emblematic places in Lima. No matter your creed or your philosophy of life, if you are visiting Lima, do not miss this jewel of viceregal architecture, located in front of the Plaza Mayor.

The beginnings of the Cathedral of Lima

Its history begins in 1535, when the Spanish conqueror Francisco Pizarro ordered the construction of a Catholic temple, which was inaugurated in 1540, and which the Supreme Pontiff Paul III turned into a cathedral a year later. For its location, Pizarro chose the same place that was occupied by an indigenous worship centre next to the palace of Prince Sinchi Puma, descendant of the Inca Sinchi Roca, ruler of Cusco.

Fray Gerónimo de Loayza, the first archbishop of Lima, ordered the construction of a larger temple, the construction of which was completed in 1551. Later, there were other design projects by the Spanish architects Francisco de Becerra and Juan Martínez de Arrona, which were completed in 1649.

Following the damage caused by the earthquakes of 1687 and 1746, the Cathedral underwent a series of modifications and reconstructions. Its modern neoclassical towers and its main altar date from that period. Subsequently, it underwent other restorations at the end of the 19th century and after the earthquake of 1940.

The Cathedral from the inside

As you walk around the church, you will notice that it is divided into three naves and fourteen side chapels. The central nave is made up of an impressive choir stalls with 53 images of saints carved in wood.

An impressive choir stalls, designed by the Spanish architect Pedro de Noguera in the 17th century, surround the main altar, where the tabernacle is located. The pulpit, in neoclassical style, is crowned by an image of Saint John the Evangelist, and the crucifix, located at the front, by a Paschal Lamb. Also, in the transept of the nave, there are four statues (two on each side) of Saint John the Evangelist, Saint Peter, Saint Paul and Saint James the Great.

One of the most visited chapels is the one that houses the tomb of Francisco Pizarro, adorned with Venetian mosaic panels. It is an ancient crypt discovered at the beginning of the 20th century when maintenance work was being carried out. In another chapel there is a display case with relics of Pope John Paul II, who had close ties with Peru throughout his papacy.

How to get there?

To visit the Cathedral, you must go to the Plaza Mayor of Lima. You can do it through a guided route organised by a tourist agency or on your own, using the Metropolitano public transport service that connects several districts of the capital with the historic centre, or by taxi. Admission is free; however, if you wish to visit the museum of religious art, the price is 10 soles (approximately €2.42).