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Monastery of San Francisco
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Landmark
The Monastery of San Francisco in Lima is one of the most significant and beautiful examples of Spanish Baroque architecture in the New World. Founded in 1546 and rebuilt after the 1672 earthquake, the complex is famous for its striking yellow and white facade and its world-class library containing over 25,000 ancient volumes. However, its most fascinating and haunting feature lies beneath the church: the vast network of catacombs that served as Lima's first cemetery until 1808. Thousands of skulls and bones are meticulously arranged in geometric patterns within the stone chambers. The monastery's serene cloisters, decorated with exquisite 17th-century Seville tiles (azulejos), offer a peaceful contrast to the bustling city outside. It remains a vital spiritual center and a crown jewel of Lima's UNESCO-listed historic center.
- Location: Peru
- Top sights: Museo de Sitio Parque de La Muralla · Museo Numismático del Perú · Museo de Neuropatología
- Nearby: Huaraz (83 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb–Apr.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 19 | 20 | 20 | 19 | 18 | 17 | 17 | 17 | 17 | 17 | 18 | 19 |
| Rain mm | 3 | 5 | 4 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 2 | 3 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The impressive baroque Monastery of San Francisco in Lima is open to visitors daily. You can explore the church, library, and the famous underground catacombs, while the courtyard is also accessible.
Typical hours
Typically the monastery is open on weekdays from 9 am to 5 pm, with shorter hours on Sundays and holidays. During services some areas may be closed.
Photography
Photography is allowed in most areas without flash. In the catacombs, however, it is usually prohibited for preservation reasons.
Time needed
Allow about 1.5 to 2 hours for the full visit. The catacombs tour alone takes around 30 minutes.
Combine with
Combine your visit with the nearby Plaza Mayor and Lima Cathedral. The Lima Art Museum is also just a short walk away.
Getting there
The monastery is in Lima's historic center, reachable on foot from Plaza Mayor. Taxis and buses stop nearby.
Insider tip
Arrive around 9 am to avoid long queues. Bring a jacket as the catacombs are cool and damp.
Geography
Facts
- Founded in 1546, the current church and convent were completed in 1774.
- Home to a world-renowned library with thousands of antique books and maps.
- The catacombs beneath the church are estimated to contain the remains of 25,000 to 70,000 people.
- Famous for its Sevillian tiles, which date back to the 1620s and 1630s.
- The complex includes the Church of San Francisco, the Chapel of Solitude, and the Chapel of the Miracle.
- Features a massive dome inspired by Moorish architecture (Mudéjar style).
- Survived the devastating earthquake of 1746 with minimal damage.
- A key part of the Historic Center of Lima, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Monastery of San Francisco (15)
Museo Numismático del Perú🏛 museum
Housed in the historic Casa de Moneda, this museum explores the extensive history of Peruvian currency.
🌐 bcrp.gob.pe🕒 Mo-Fr 10:00-16:30
Centro Cultural de la Escuela de Bella Artes🎭 culture
This lively arts center hosts rotating exhibitions of paintings and sculptures created by students of the National School of Fine Arts.
🌐 centroculturalbellasartes.pe🕒 Mo-Sa 10:00-19:00
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Are there guided tours at the San Francisco Monastery?
Yes, a guided tour through the catacombs is highly recommended.
What is special about the catacombs?
They served as a cemetery and contain the remains of thousands of people.
Is photography allowed in the catacombs?
Photography is often prohibited inside the catacombs.
How long does the tour take?
A visit usually lasts about 45 to 60 minutes.
Is the place accessible?
Unfortunately, access to the catacombs is not wheelchair accessible.
Monastery of San Francisco: where is it located?
Monastery of San Francisco is located in Peru.
Monastery of San Francisco: what is there to see?
Highlights include Museo de Sitio Parque de La Muralla, Museo Numismático del Perú, Museo de Neuropatología.
Monastery of San Francisco: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Apr.
Monastery of San Francisco: why is it worth visiting?
The Monastery of San Francisco in Lima is one of the most significant and beautiful examples of Spanish Baroque architecture in the New World.
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