Basilica and Convent of San Francisco de Lima Peru Guide: History, Hiking, Facts, Maps, and Tours

The Basilica and Convent of San Francisco de Lima are one of the most beautiful and important catholic religious centers of Peru’s capital, Lima. It is a colonial architectural complex of Spanish Baroque design, consisting of a convent and two churches located around it: the Church of Soledad and the Church of Milagro. It is easily recognizable by its yellow facade, and its catacombs contain the remains of more than 25,000 people.

The monumental complex of the Basilica and Convent of San Francisco de Lima, also known as San Francisco el Grande or San Francisco de Jesus, is located in the Historic Center of Lima, Peru.

The Basilica and Convent of San Francisco de Lima are 476 years old. Fray Francisco de la Cruz founded it in 1546.

In pre-Columbian times, the site of the present-day city of Lima was inhabited by several Amerindian groups. Before the arrival of the Inca Empire, the Rimac and Lurin river valleys were grouped under the political system of the Ichma, whose presence left a mark in the form of some 40 pyramids associated with the irrigation system of the valleys.

The history of the city of Lima began with its foundation by Francisco Pizarro on January 18, 1535. The town was established in the valley of the Rimac River, in an area populated by the Ichma people. Lima became the capital of the Viceroyalty of Peru and the seat of a Royal Court in 1543. In the 17th century, the city prospered as the center of an extensive commercial network despite the damage caused by earthquakes and the threat of pirates. However, prosperity ended in the 18th century due to economic recession and Bourbon reforms.

The Basilica and Convent of St. Francis and Catacombs is a historical and cultural heritage of the Franciscan Province of the XII Apostles. This treasure is offered to the whole world through its visitors, who take in their eyes and hearts the splendor of the museum.

In the early decades of the 16th century, when Lima was in its early stages, Catholic congregations were assigned sections of the city to build their monasteries, convents, and churches to honor God and their patron saints. Most of these historical sites are preserved to this day. The land of the convent corresponding to the Franciscan Order was ceded by Francisco Pizarro when he founded the city on January 18, 1535.

The Basilica and Convent of San Francisco de Lima tours are in Spanish and English. They last approximately 45 minutes and are available on a first-come, first-served basis. A guide accompanies all tours.

Other tours, which may be of interest as a way to get to know a little more of Lima, are the following:

Lima: Historical, Colonial, and Modern City Tour Take a trip back in time and see the main sights of bustling Lima, spanning three eras. On this guided tour, you will learn about the historical, colonial, and modern eras as you explore Peru’s capital city.

Lima: colonial city tour with a visit to the catacombs. Discover the historic center of Lima, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with this tour. See places of interest, such as the Plaza de San Martin and the Plaza de Armas, and finish with a visit to the catacombs.

Lima: small group city tour with pisco sour and catacombs. Discover the highlights of Lima on a half-day tour with a local guide. Admire historical monuments and royal monuments and explore a network of subway rooms in the catacombs.

Lima: a tour of the historical center, the catacombs, and the site of Pachacamac Discover the history of Peru on this full-day trip to the historic center of Lima. Explore the ancient colonial buildings; the Inca remains of Pachacamac, and the San Francisco Monastery and its catacombs.

Full day tour of Lima’s highlights

Explore Lima on this full-day excursion. 

Visit an archaeological site (Pachacamac or Huaca Pucllana), the bohemian area of Barranco, the Historical Center with its catacombs, and the Parque de las Aguas.

To explain the geography of the Basilica and Convent of San Francisco, we have to write about the city of Lima.

The Basilica and Convent of San Francisco is located in the Historic Center of Lima.

Lima is the capital of the Republic of Peru and the largest city in the country, with a population of around 8,574,974 inhabitants.

Lima is currently considered the country’s political, cultural, financial, and commercial center. Internationally, it is the third most populated metropolitan area in Latin America, ranks fifth among the most populated cities in Latin America, and is one of the thirty most populated cities in the world.

The city is home to stunning beaches, vast deserts, green valleys and hills, inaccessible mountain ranges, emerald lakes, and peaks that struggle to remain snow-white. Although locals often envy the mountains and the cottony blue skies, the fog that tinges every winter day with gloom has the important function of giving life to a varied flora and fauna located in the nearby coastal hills, such as Lúcumo and Lachay.

In the nearby mountain ranges of La Viuda and Pariacaca, which rise to the east of the department and mark the border with Pasco, Junín, and Huánuco, the rivers that irrigate the low fields of the coast are born. Industrial crops such as asparagus, marigold, and paprika are grown there, as well as various fruit trees.

Lima’s coastline also stands out for its wetlands, such as Medio Mundo, Villa, Puerto Viejo, Chilca, and Cerro Azul, which are an important refuge for several species of birds. The main coastal features are the bay of Callao and the island of San Lorenzo, the largest in Peru.

Lima is not only the name of the capital of Peru but the capital district where the historical center of the city is located is also called Lima. The surrounding region is called Lima, as well as the name of the province, located in the department of Lima.

Currently, the metropolitan area of Lima is divided into 43 districts. Thirty of these districts belong geographically to the city of Lima, each with its own style, charm, and character. However, the other thirteen districts surround the core of the urban area and are located in rural areas outside Lima. Additionally, the province of Callao has six districts that officially belong to the Metropolitan Lima area.

The Basilica and Convent of San Francisco have valuable works of art and pieces of liturgical use that have great historical and monetary value because they are made of precious materials such as gold and silver.

One of the most valuable treasures is its beautiful library. Along with the libraries of the Abbey of Admont (Austria) and the Strahov Monastery (Czech Republic), many travelers consider the one housed in the Convent of St. Francis beautiful in the world. It contains about 25,000 volumes, including rare Aldine, Elzevirian, and Plantinian editions, and valuable incunabula and Franciscan chronicles from the 15th and 18th centuries, respectively.

Throughout its rooms, there are numerous canvases made by renowned artists of the seventeenth century. For example, the set of eleven canvases called “The Passion of Christ” from the School of Pedro Pablo Rubens stands out. Also, in the Convent, you can admire the work of the great Spanish painter Francisco Zurbarán. 

In addition, there are many baroque paintings from the XV, XVI, and XVII centuries, as well as from the Cusco school of anonymous authorship, which can be appreciated in the different rooms of this majestic Franciscan Convent.

The monumental complex of the Basilica and Convent of San Francisco de Lima, also known as “San Francisco el Grande” or “San Francisco de Jesus”, is located in the Historic Center of the city of Lima. This church, together with the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Solitude and the Church of the Miracle, make up one of Lima’s most welcoming and artistic corners.

Concerning the total number of foreign tourists visiting Peru, 72.4% visited Lima, occupying the first place in the total number of visits by inbound tourism.

The main places visited by foreigners in Lima were Miraflores (69.1%), Lima’s Historical Center (62.7%), Barranco (26.7%) and San Isidro (18.9%).

Foreigners visiting Lima come mainly from the United States (20.4%), Chile (11.4%), and Argentina (7.1%), among others. Grouping the countries by region, we observe that foreigners from South America represent 38.9%, followed by North American countries (27.1%) and Europe (23.7%).

What is the Basilica and Convent of San Francisco de Lima History?

The monumental complex of the Basilica and Convent of San Francisco de Lima, also known as “San Francisco el Grande” or “San Francisco de Jesus”, is located in the Historic Center of Lima. This church, along with the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Solitude and the Church of the Miracle, make up one of Lima’s most welcoming and artistic corners. Fray Francisco de la Cruz founded it in 1546.

Once the foundation of Lima was made by Pizarro, on January 18, 1535, by Francisco Pizarro, who drew the city’s plan and distributed the plots of land to its new owners, the Franciscan Order of the Twelve Apostles was given one of them, which Fray Francisco de la Cruz used to build a small ramada that he used as a chapel. After a while, the Franciscan priest had to leave, and the plot was abandoned as there was no other member of his Order in the valley.

Francisco Pizarro then added the lot to the Dominican Order and destined another one for the Franciscans in the place that nowadays occupies the Chapel of the Miracle. In 1546 Francisco de Santa Ana arrived in Lima and managed to build a modest and small church, which was later enlarged with the Convent by the Viceroy of Peru Andres Hurtado de Mendoza, Protector of the Order. During the following century, the Convent underwent a series of improvements and embellishments that turned it into a marvelous example of colonial art.

On February 4, 1655, an earthquake occurred in which the Franciscan Convent collapsed, sadly, many lives were lost, and the material effort of an entire century was destroyed. 

Without giving up, Francisco de Borja, commissioner general of the Order, hired the services of the Portuguese architect Constantino de Vasconcellos and the master builder from Lima, Manuel Escobar, to commission them to build a new convent. The first stone was laid by the then Viceroy, Luis Enriquez de Guzman on May 8, 1657, and then, in 1669, by the new commissioner general of the Order, Fray Luis de Cervela, who managed to finish it.

Fray Luis de Cervela decorated the Convent with tiles that still exist today. Also, he commissioned a series of canvases that represent the life of San Francisco to the most important painters of Lima. He is also remembered for other minor works, such as the paving of the small square and the casting of the basins of the Main Cloister. In 1675 Cervela left Peru to return to Santiago de Compostela, leaving an indelible mark on the city.

The new Convent was inaugurated with great pomp on October 3, 1672, and work continued inside the Convent until 1729.

In 1936, during the government of Marshal Oscar R. Benavides, the First Pan-American Congress of Tourism was held in Lima. In this event, it was exposed in the interiors of the Convent of San Francisco, a Museum of Viceroyalty Religious Art, with collections of objects and cult goods of different convents, monasteries, and the own ones that it housed. In 1950 the catacombs were opened to the public.

The San Francisco Convent Museum and Catacombs, since 1968, is also known for the famous “Catacombs of San Francisco”, which attract the attention of tourists and local visitors.

Catacombs mean subway burial. Since the church was completed in the seventeenth century, people belonging to the various confraternities, guilds, and families buried their dead under the altars in the side chapels, unconnected to each other until 1657 when corridors were enabled to join the tombs. It is said that there are around 25,000 bodies buried in them.

Although General San Martin prohibited its use in 1821, bodies continued to be buried clandestinely until the custom was lost as the years went by.

The Basilica and Convent of San Francisco de Lima is declared a Cultural Patrimony of the Nation. The museum exhibits and preserves one of Peruvian colonial art’s most representative historical and artistic collections. 

UNESCO declared the Basilica and Convent of San Francisco a World Cultural Heritage Site on December 8, 1988.

What does Basilica and Convent of San Francisco de Lima Mean?

The Basilica and Convent of San Francisco de Lima, located two blocks from the Main Square of Lima in the Historical Center, is one of the most beautiful and important religious centers of the capital of Peru. It is a colonial architectural complex of Spanish baroque design, formed by a convent and two churches located around it: the Church of Soledad and the Church of the Miracle. Its catacombs contain the remains of more than 25,000 people.

Its library houses more than 25,000 ancient texts of religious and cultural importance. Many of them even predate the arrival of the Spanish in South America. One of the library’s highlights is an edition of the Bible dating from 1571.

How old is Basílica y Convento de San Francisco de Lima?

The Basilica and Convent of San Francisco de Lima is 476 years old. Fray Francisco de la Cruz founded it in 1546. 

What are the relics inside the Basílica y Convento de San Francisco de Lima?

The Basilica and Convent of San Francisco have valuable works of art and pieces of liturgical use that have great historical and monetary value because they are made of precious materials such as gold and silver.

One of the most valuable treasures is its beautiful library. Along with the libraries of the Abbey of Admont (Austria) and the Strahov Monastery (Czech Republic), many travelers consider the one housed in the Convent of St. Francis beautiful in the world. It contains about 25,000 volumes, including rare Aldine, Elzevirian, and Plantinian editions, as well as valuable incunabula and Franciscan chronicles from the 15th and 18th centuries respectively.

It also holds an atlas from the mid-17th century, the first dictionary published by the Royal Academy of the Spanish Language, the famous “Biblia Regia” published in Antwerp in 1572, and more than 6,000 parchments. 

There are also numerous works by Jesuits, Augustinians, Benedictines, and Carmelites brought from Europe and dealing with philosophy, theology, history, literature, and music, written in Latin, Spanish, French, Portuguese, Italian, etc.

Throughout its rooms, there are numerous canvases made by renowned artists of the seventeenth century. For example, the set of eleven canvases called “The Passion of Christ” from the School of Pedro Pablo Rubens stands out. Also, in the Convent, you can admire the work of the great Spanish painter Francisco Zurbarán. 

In addition, there are many baroque paintings from the XV, XVI, and XVII centuries, as well as from the Cusco school of anonymous authorship, which can be appreciated in the different rooms of this majestic Franciscan Convent.

One of the most outstanding works is the choir stalls made of cedar brought from Costa Rica. It has 130 seats with high-relief engravings. 

Who used Basilica and Convent of San Francisco de Lima for what?

The Basilica and Convent of San Francisco de Lima is located in the Historic Center of the City of Lima, capital of Peru.

The history of the city of Lima began with its foundation by Francisco Pizarro on January 18, 1535. The city was established in the valley of the Rimac River, in an area populated by the Ichma people. It became the capital of the Viceroyalty of Peru and the seat of a Royal Court in 1543.

In the 17th century, the city prospered as the center of an extensive commercial network despite the damage caused by earthquakes and the threat of pirates. However, prosperity came to an end in the 18th century due to economic recession and Bourbon reforms.

In pre-Columbian times, the site of the present-day city of Lima was inhabited by several Amerindian groups. Before the arrival of the Inca Empire, the Rimac and Lurin river valleys were grouped under the political system of the Ichma, whose presence left a mark in the form of some 40 pyramids associated with the irrigation system of the valleys.

In August 1536, the new city was besieged by the troops of Manco Inca, leader of an Inca rebellion against Spanish rule. The Spaniards and their native allies, led by Pizarro himself, defeated the rebels after heavy fighting in and around the city streets. On November 3, 1536, the Spanish Crown confirmed the foundation and, on December 7, 1537, Charles V, Holy Roman Emperor, granted a coat of arms to the city.

In the following years, Lima shared the turmoil caused by the struggles between the different Spanish factions. At the same time, it gained prestige when it was designated capital of the Viceroyalty of Peru and the seat of a Royal Audience in 1543. In 1551 the first university in Latin America and Lima, the National University of San Marcos, was created and in 1584 its first printing press. Lima also became an important religious center, a Roman Catholic diocese was established in 1541 and became an archdiocese five years later. In 1609, the city celebrated the beatification of Ignatius of Loyola.

What is the culture of Basílica y Convento de San Francisco de Lima?

The Basilica and Convent of St. Francis and Catacombs is a historical and cultural heritage of the Franciscan Province of the XII Apostles. This treasure is offered to the whole world through its visitors, who take in their eyes and hearts the splendor of the museum.

The Order of Friars Minor, founded by St. Francis of Assisi, is a Fraternity. Born in the year 1546. Its history, traditions, and use to spread the Catholic faith are related to the Spanish foundation of Lima. The Friars, taking their baptismal consecration to greater fullness and responding to the divine call, give themselves totally to God’s most beloved through the profession of obedience, poverty, and chastity, which they have to live according to the spirit of St. Francis.

What are the theories about the origin of the Basílica y Convento de San Francisco de Lima?

In the early decades of the 16th century, when Lima was in its early stages, Catholic congregations were assigned sections of the city to build their monasteries, convents, and churches to honor God and their patron saints. Most of these historical sites are preserved to this day. The land of the convent corresponding to the Franciscan Order was ceded by Francisco Pizarro when he founded the city on January 18, 1535.

What are the myths about Basilica and Convent of San Francisco de Lima? 

The following are the best-known myths and traditions told and commented on through centuries about the Basilica and Convent of San Francisco de Lima.

First, The Peruvian Traditions of Don Ricardo Palma.

According to the great writer and traditionalist Don Ricardo Palma, on February 4, 1655, the city of Lima was devastated, as so many times throughout its history, by an earthquake. Among its many misfortunes, it brought down the Franciscan temple, destroying its valuable artistic wealth and incalculable ancient relics. In spite of this, the Order was not discouraged. Don Francisco de Borja, its general commissioner, hired the services of the Portuguese architect Constantino de Vasconcellos and the Lima master builder Manuel Escobar, to commission them to build a new temple in the same place. Thanks to their efforts, the first stone was laid by the Viceroy, Luis Enriquez de Guzman, on May 8, 1657, and in 1669, the new general commissioner of the Order, Friar Luis de Cervela, took charge of the work, who managed to finish it.

The new temple was presented with great pomp on October 3, 1672, and interior repairs continued in the Convent until 1729. Inside the Convent, in our times, it is possible to admire attractive features such as its remarkable courtyards and gardens, which are surrounded by arcades with Sevillian tile plinths. 

According to the traditions written by don Ricardo Palma, these tiles were skillfully placed by Alonso Godínez, a native of Spain, who had been condemned to be hanged for having murdered his wife.

 Upon communicating this ability, on the same day of his execution, to his confessor, who happened to be a member of the Franciscan Order, the priest hurried to obtain Godinez’s pardon.

This was obtained under the condition that he would wear the habit of a layman and never leave the Convent again. 

The Sevillian tiles, with which Alonso Godínez worked, were brought directly from Seville and donated by Catalina Huanca, who was Francisco Pizarro’s goddaughter.

Second, The myth of the chocolate bowl. Taking part in a centuries-old ritual, Pedro Jiménez Menacho sold his abundant cedar wood to the Convent of San Francisco. As payment he received an unforgettable reward: a bowl of warm chocolate lovingly crafted by Franciscan priests – so delicious that upon tasting it all debts were absolved and not another word was spoken about remuneration. 

Third. The myth of the Catacombs of the Monastery of San Francisco de Lima.

The story goes that, as a result of the cruel deaths and executions that took place during the viceroyalty, many souls were trapped in the Catacombs of San Francisco. That is why many visitors and priests claim to have seen transparent beings levitating in dark clothes over the dark passages.

Is the Basilica and Convent of San Francisco de Lima is important for the history of Peru? 

This architectural complex, which took about 140 years to build (1537-1673) is one of the best examples of Baroque in the City of Kings, and is one of the most welcoming and artistic corners of Lima. 

It is also among the three largest convents in America. Ramón Menéndez Pidal, Spanish philologist and scholar, commented: “It is the largest and noblest monument erected in these prodigious lands by the conquest of the Americas.

Where is Basilica and Convent of San Francisco de Lima Located?

The monumental complex of the Basilica and Convent of San Francisco de Lima, also known as San Francisco el Grande or San Francisco de Jesus, is located in the historic center of the city of Lima, Peru.

Its exact address is: Jirón Lampa, Cercado de Lima 15001, Peru.

What are the coordinates of Basílica y Convento de San Francisco de Lima?

The coordinates of the Basilica and Convent of San Francisco de Lima are as follows:  -12.043339, -77.030895, pinpointed on a GPS device or a map. 

How is the Map of Basílica y Convento de San Francisco de Lima Layout?

The map of the Basilica and Convent of San Francisco, located in the Historic Center of the city of Lima, is as follows:

How is the Geography of Basílica y Convento de San Francisco de Lima?

To explain the geography of the Basilica and Convent of San Francisco, we have to write about the city of Lima.

The Basilica and Convent of San Francisco is located in the Historic Center of the city of Lima.

Lima is the capital of the Republic of Peru and the largest city in the country, with a population of around 8,574,974 inhabitants.

Lima is currently considered the political, cultural, financial and commercial center of the country. Internationally, it is the third most populated metropolitan area in Latin America, ranks fifth among the most populated cities in Latin America and is one of the thirty most populated cities in the world.

The city is home to stunning beaches, vast deserts, green valleys and hills, inaccessible mountain ranges, emerald lakes and peaks that struggle to remain snow-white. Although locals often envy the mountains and the cottony blue skies, the fog that tinges every winter day with gloom has the important function of giving life to a varied flora and fauna located in the nearby coastal hills, such as Lúcumo and Lachay.

In the nearby mountain ranges of La Viuda and Pariacaca, which rise to the east of the department and mark the border with Pasco, Junín and Huánuco, the rivers that irrigate the low fields of the coast are born. Industrial crops such as asparagus, marigold, and paprika are grown there, as well as various fruit trees.

Lima’s coastline also stands out for its wetlands, such as Medio Mundo, Villa, Puerto Viejo, Chilca, and Cerro Azul, which are an important refuge for several species of birds. The main coastal features are the bay of Callao and the island of San Lorenzo, the largest in Peru.

Lima is not only the name of the capital of Peru but the capital district where the historical center of the city is located is also called Lima. The surrounding region is called Lima, as well as the name of the province, located in the department of Lima.

Currently, the metropolitan area of Lima is divided into 43 districts. Thirty of these districts belong geographically to Lima, each with its style, charm, and character. However, the other thirteen districts surround the core of the urban area and are located in rural areas outside Lima. Additionally, the province of Callao has six districts that officially belong to the Metropolitan Lima area.

What is the Geological Profile of Basílica y Convento de San Francisco de Lima?

The Basilica and Convent of San Francisco is located in the Historic Center of Lima.

Lima, Peru’s capital and largest city, is located on the Pacific coastal plain, on dissected alluvial cones formed by the fast-flowing Rimac, Chillon and Lurin rivers. The western Andean mountain range rises steeply to the east of the city and reaches an altitude of 6,100 m just 130 km from the Pacific Ocean.

The Andes of central Peru are relatively young mountains, with the oldest exposed rock being the pyroclasts of the Upper Jurassic Puente Piedra Group.

 These are overlain by shales and quartzites of the Morro-Solar Group of the Lower Cretaceous, followed by 1,000 m of limestone of the Pamplona and Atocongo formations of the Lower to Middle Cretaceous age.

In the middle and upper Cretaceous, volcanism resumed, and 1,500 m of andesites and pyroclasts were deposited to form the Casma Group, which is the source rock at the highest stratigraphic level. Alluvial cones and beach sediments that formed during the rapid ascent of the Andes have been dissected by rejuvenation of the downcutting down to 20 m at Lima.

The geology of the Lima region reflects the subduction of the Nazca Plate under the South American Plate and subsequent uplift and volcanic activity. The structural geology of the bedrock underlying the Quaternary sediments in the city of Lima is dominated by the northwest-trending Lima anticline and associated synclines and reverse faults. This anticline is asymmetric with dips of 5 to 20 degrees in the west and 35 degrees in the east.

Engineering problems related to Lima’s geology involve earthquake protection design, foundation problems in unstable soils, water supply for a rapidly growing city, solid waste disposal, and urban sprawl. Modern engineering practices have been introduced, with seismic design in new building codes. Water resource planning and modern infrastructure construction take into account the geological setting of this large and important city.

What are the Hiking Routes in Basílica y Convento de San Francisco de Lima?

The following are among the best routes for walking and cycling through the Historic Center of Lima and other traditional city places. 

1. Lima – City Walk.

Overall it is an easy route, which takes an average of 5 h 16 min to cover. It is excellent for cycling and walking.

Distance

22.4 km

Positive difference in elevation

380 m

Type of route

Round trip

Walk through Lima, going from the Miraflores neighborhood to the Plaza de Armas. Starting at Kennedy Park, take a short ride along the waterfront (Raimondi Park) at the midpoint of the Malecon to the lighthouse and then heading towards the main downtown area. The large Avenida Arequipa also has bike paths. The route passes through other small squares and parks, including Parque de la Reserva and Parque de la Exposición. After a stretch of pedestrian walkway surrounded by restaurants and local businesses, you arrive at the Plaza de Armas or Plaza Mayor. 

1. Lima: Plaza San Martín – Plaza de Armas – Chinatown

6.6-km circular route near Lima, Lima. It is generally considered an easy route, which takes an average of 1 h 36 min to cover. This route is excellent for cycling and walking. 

Distance

6.6 km

Positive difference in elevation

128 m

Type of route

Circular

It is a pleasant tour through the historic center of the city of Lima, starting at the Plaza San Martin and taking the pedestrian street Jiron de la Union towards the Plaza de Armas. It is possible to appreciate historical monuments and incredible architecture. Then, take another pedestrian street, Jiron Ucayali, to pass the Central Market and craft stores, other sites of interest such as the Public Ministry, restaurants and stores and then return to the parking lot near Plaza San Martin, where the tour began.

1. Huaca Pucllana

It is generally considered an easy route, which takes an average of 19 minutes to walk. This route is excellent for walking and takes place in the district of San Isidro. One of the safest and quietest in the city. This route is located at a distance from the Historic Center of the City of Lima.

Distance

1.3 km

Positive difference in elevation

26 m

Type of route

Circular

The Huaca Pucllana is an archaeological site consisting of a huge pyramid of adobe and clay that was once an administrative and ceremonial center of the Lima culture of ancient Peru. 

Currently, it is one of the most investigated sites. It is a great tourist attraction in metropolitan Lima since it functions as a museum with an exhibition hall and has a restaurant. It is one of the best preserved pre-Inca sites in the city.

1. Miraflores Malecon

If you go towards the intersection of Reducto and Armendariz Avenues in Miraflores, on the right side, you will see where the path that many people follow to get to the boardwalk begins. You will see many buildings, a beautiful view of the sea and people exercising and lots of family life. 

You will see the Parque del Amor, the statue of the poet Antonio Cisneros and the Faro La Marina. Even in the summer, on Sunday afternoons, small concerts and other activities are held near the Faro de la Marina. In the early mornings, it is extremely quiet, as well as on Sundays.

1. District of Barranco. Another of the best places in Lima to stroll around is Barranco, considered by many to be the most bohemian district of the city. This is due to the presence of several art galleries and museums. In addition to good bars and cafes. Many of them in old and historic mansions. You can start at the Municipal Park of Barranco and continue along San Martin Avenue. There are several galleries and art workshops with exhibitions of both emerging and recognized artists.

Remember to walk under the Puente de los Suspiros (Bridge of Sighs) to the sea. It is one of the best short walks you can do in Lima and Barranco (it does not take more than 20 minutes), and the space is a mix of bohemian, traditional, and novel. As the only suggestion is preferable, if you do this last walk under the bridge, go during the day. At night as you get closer to the sea, there is little illumination, and it is not necessary to take unnecessary risks. 

We will also recommend a couple of other routes that, although far from downtown Lima, are nevertheless of great beauty and will allow you to get to know other attractive areas of the Peruvian capital.

Some suggestions for walks in the city of Lima.

Lima is a city with some very traditional, historic, and beautiful parts that will impress you, make you love it, and return continually. Of course, it has the contrasts of any big city, and in general, its population is very friendly and generous with visitors. 

However, it is good to be aware of peak traffic times and always be on the lookout as it gets darker. 

As in any city in the world that you visit, you should be careful with your equipment and valuables, especially according to the time of day when you pass through certain areas. Ask your guides and accommodation managers about this. 

As per paying attention to traffic rules in the city, this is, unfortunately, one of the points in which the city fails the most. At certain hours there is a lot of disorder and traffic congestion. Be aware of this when you go on an excursion in the capital. 

Where to stay in Basilica and Convent of San Francisco de Lima?

Lima is more than just an ordinary metropolis – with its eclectic mix of culture, art, and history, it’s the perfect destination for travelers who want to experience something unique. Lima has everything from luxurious hotels where you can indulge yourself to cozy budget accommodation options that won’t break the bank. The following are the best places to stay in the historic center of Lima. 

1. Sheraton Lima Hotel & Convention Center

For those visiting Lima, Sheraton Lima Hotel & Convention Center is a great choice for relaxation. Known for its family-friendly atmosphere and proximity to the city’s best attractions, Sheraton Lima Hotel & Convention Center is a fantastic destination for tourists. 

Sheraton Lima Hotel & Convention Center is a five-star hotel located at Paseo de la Republica 170, Lima, Peru.

125 USD

2. The Westin Lima Hotel & Convention Center

The Westin Lima Hotel & Convention Center is a 5 star hotel located at 450 Las Begonias Street, San Isidro in Lima.

224 USD

3. Country Club Lima Hotel

What are the Tours for Basilica and Convent of San Francisco de Lima?

There are two different tours to the Basilica and Convent of San Francisco de Lima.

First. Basilica and Convent of San Francisco de Lima’s classic tour provide guided Spanish and English tours from 9 am to 4 pm. They last approximately 45 minutes and are accessed on a first-come, first-served basis. 

Second. the combination of the City tour of colonial Lima and a visit to the catacombs. In this tour, people get to discover the Historic Center of Lima, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its historic Plaza de San Martin and the Plaza de Armas and finish with a visit to the catacombs.

The tour lasts about four hours and costs between 30 and 50 USD.

What are the Closest Destinations to Basílica y Convento de San Francisco de Lima?

Based on their proximity, the following are the closest destinations to the Basilica y Convento de San Francisco de Lima.

1. Parque de las Aguas: it is one of the best-known tourist attractions in the city. It is a huge park with thirteen fountains that offer a show of colors, music and lights. It is a highly recommended family visit. 
2. Plaza de Armas of Lima: it is one of the places with more history and tradition of Peru. This is where Francisco Pizarro founded the city on January 18, 1535. There you can also visit the Cathedral of Lima. Today, the Plaza de Armas is the core of the Historic Center of Lima, which was declared Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 1991 by UNESCO. 
3. Presbítero Maestro Cemetery: It is the oldest cemetery in South America. It was created in 1808 to avoid burials in the back of the churches, as was the custom during the colony. Along the tombs, some mausoleums show a peculiar sculptural beauty. You will recognize many characters of the Peruvian history of the XIX and XX centuries buried there.
4. Cerro San Cristobal: It is the closest and highest hill of the city. Its importance comes from the time of the Incas themselves. It was named San Cristobal by Francisco Pizarro himself in 1535. It offers the best panoramic views of Lima. It is one of the most important and traditional spaces of the City of the Kings.

How to Get from Cusco to Basilica and Convent of San Francisco de Lima?

The journey to Lima from Cusco takes up to 18 hours by bus, or just an hour if you opt for flying. Whatever your mode of transport is, choose wisely; Peru hop and Cruz del Sur will get you there fast with their inter-regional buses, while LATAM and Sky Airlines are reliable options when traveling by air — both provide punctual service. Once in Lima, a taxi ride should not exceed 45 minutes, depending on traffic – bringing one closer to discovering the Basilica and Convent of San Francisco, Lima.

What to know before going to Basilica and Convent of San Francisco de Lima?

Before visiting the Basilica and Convent of San Francisco, Lima, you need to know the following things. 

• Mass is held every day from Monday through Saturday at 7 am and 7 pm, while Sundays feature services starting at 12:00 pm. 
• The Museum opens Sunday – Thursday, 9 am-8:45 pm, with extended hours on holidays between 12 pm – 8:45 pm. 
• Location, The Basilica and Convent of San Francisco, Lima, is located in the charming Plaza del San Francisco within Cercado de Lima (cornering Jirones Ancash & Lampa).
• if you plan to finish your visit at night, remember that the traffic in the adjacent streets to return to your lodging or to another place starts to get very busy after 6:00 pm.

• You can take advantage of the proximity to the Plaza de Armas of Lima to visit both the Cathedral of Lima and the Pisco Museum. This bar has an excellent atmosphere for tourists, travelers, and all those interested in enjoying a delicious pisco sour. 

• For more information about the Basilica and Convent of Francisco de Lima, as well as the Museum, please contact us using the following means:
• E-mail: informes@museocatacumbas.com
• Telephone: (01) 4267377 ext. 300
• Website: http://museocatacumbas.com/cursos-de-extension/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MuseoCatacumbas

How is the Basilica and Convent of San Francisco de Lima Itinerary?

The Basilica and Convent of San Francisco, Lima’s itinerary is listed below. 

Facade. It is of Limean baroque style, with grace and monumentality. A rhythmic massif runs along its walls, the upper part adorned with a wooden handrail.

1. The main altar is in neoclassical style. Inside are the catacombs, the Museum, the portal, the chapter house, and the cloister. 
2. The commemorative marble plaque, with the emblem of the Holy See, with the following words engraved on it:  “Among so many and so beautiful temples that embellish the city of Lima, luminary on the shores of the great Pacific Ocean, deservedly highlights the church of San Francisco de Jesus, which attached to the great monastery of the Friars Minor produces great admiration both for the antiquity of its origin as for the eminent of its architecture” 
3. Sacrist: The sacristy of the main temple is one of the jewels of the Franciscan temple. It emphasizes its façade made in 1729. Its vault deteriorated as a consequence of the 1966 earthquake. It was restored in the ’90s with the help of the Spanish government.
4. Autoportal: Crossing the door of the Convent, there is a large room with baseboards decorated with tiles, whose main attraction is a triptych of the Crucified Lord, whose side paintings are the work of the Italian Angelino Medoro. There are also paintings of the School of the period of great value.
5. Portal: It includes a wooden sculpture of Jesus Crucified, paintings of saints of the Catholic Church of the XVII century, and paintings of the Cusquenian School.
6. Lobby: It is a large room with a carved wooden ceiling with Sevillian tile plinths. There are paintings by famous artists depicting Catholic saints; in the central part, the main attraction is a rococo-style pavilion of the eighteenth century, worked in wood and decorated with gold leaf. It was formerly used for the feast of Corpus Christi. Today there is an image of Christ the Savior of the baroque style of the XVIII century, which belongs to the sacristy of the temple.
7. Main cloister: It is a quadrilateral patio, surrounded by galleries in the form of semicircular arches, eleven per side, all supported by pilasters. The walls are decorated with Sevillian tiles on the plinth.
8. The main cloister has a collection of 39 paintings made in 1671: they represent scenes from the life of St. Francis of Assisi, the same ones that the best artists of Lima painted at the time. When the canvases were dismantled in 1974 to restore them, it was discovered by chance mural paintings of mixed technique, in tempera and oil, corresponding to the Italian mannerist School, dating from the first third of the seventeenth century. In the corners of the cloister, there are four altarpieces carved in wood, representing four moments in the life of St. Francis of Assisi, altarpieces that were made between 1638 and 1640. The ceilings are of Mudejar style, made entirely of cedar wood from Nicaragua.
9. Chapter House: It was the place where the Franciscans met to elect a new superior or discuss matters of great importance. There are two rows of seats with high backs that surround the room and have in the center the chair, principal or tribune, which is crowned by the coat of arms of the Order; in the center, there is a wood carving in high relief with the image of Fray Juan Duns Scotus, as well as the image of the Immaculate Conception Patroness of the Franciscans. 
10. Viceroy’s guard: The chapter house is a historic room since it was here that the regular clergy signed the Act of Independence, while in the cathedral, the members of the secular clergy did so. 
11. Sala de Andas: In the room are preserved different platforms used in the processions of the saints of the Catholic Church. They can be found: one of embossed silver, which is used the first Sunday of November of each year for the procession of the image of Judas Apostle; another, carved in wood and covered with gold leaf with fine fretwork, made in 1732 on the occasion of the celebrations for the canonization of San Francisco Solano; and a third, destined to San Francisco de Asis, also worked in wood and covered with gold leaf, in 1672. They have been used for many years in the traditional “Procession of the Passage”, between the Basilica of St. Francis and the Basilica of St. Dominic.
12. Museum or In-Depth Room: It is a space for the exhibition of eleven paintings of approximately three meters; each one represents the “Passion of Christ” and belongs to the workshop of Pedro Pablo Rubens, all of them of great execution, harmony of color, and great expressiveness in their characters. Rubens dedicated himself to making the sketch, and his students continued to work on it, often limiting themselves to giving the final touches. Other fascinating relics can be seen, such as an ivory crucifix, which was brought from the city of Manila in the Philippines. In the center of the room, there is a crypt where the protectors of the Order were buried.
13. Refectory: It is the place that was formerly used as a dining room. There you can find the famous collection of fifteen paintings representing the Twelve Apostles, Christ the Redeemer, the Virgin Mary, and St. Paul that belong to the artistic work of the Spanish master Francisco de Zurbarán. 
14. Antesacristía: Here there is an immense canvas of five by six meters, representing the genealogical tree of the Franciscan Order, a work that dates from 1734; it is a painting of an unknown author.
15. Upper cloister: Accessing the upper cloister leads to the upper part of the Convent, from where you can see the garden with the five bronze fountains. In the corners are four of the 27 alabaster crosses initially located on the perimeter of the atrium or square of the building complex. In this part of the Convent are the rooms of the Franciscans. 
16. Choir: It was built in 1658 by the Quiteño-Franciscan builder Antonio Rodríguez. In previous times, the Franciscans met there to perform their religious services. It is a rectangular piece, 22 meters long by 12 meters wide, where impressive baroque choir stalls are preserved, carved in cedar, which extends on both sides. It also consists of 130 seats, having in the central part, as a union of the two rows, the main seat of the Guardian of the Order, the same that has in its back a carving of the embrace of St. Francis of Assisi and St. Dominic.
17. The armchairs are beautifully carved and engraved: All the wood used is cedar and made in full baroque style.
18. Library: There are approximately 25,000 volumes in the library, some from the XVI century. There are very rare editions, incunabula and Franciscan chronicles from the XV to XVIII centuries, as well as some volumes published in the early days of printing in Peru, as well as more than six thousand parchments and numerous works by Jesuits, Augustinians, Benedictines and priests members of other orders.
19. Conventual Archive
20. The Archive of San Francisco is where the historical documents of the Franciscan province of the 12 apostles of Peru are kept. Here are the handwritten proofs of the steps taken with Spain and Rome by the Franciscan Order since its arrival in America, especially in Peru.
21.  There is also graphic material such as maps, photographic plans, musical material, and a small auxiliary library. They are organizing it systematically to make it more useful to its users with the help of UNESCO.
22. Dome: Halfway to the second floor is the Mudejar dome, which is unparalleled in the entire American continent for its finish and dimensions. It was built in 1546 and was finally rebuilt in 1655 with wood from Costa Rica by Fray Miguel de Huerta. In addition, on the wall are two canvases with scenes from the life of San Diego de Alcalá, patron saint of the nurses of the Franciscan Order.
23. Holy Land Cloister: It is so-called because the coat of arms of the Holy Land can still be seen on it.
24. The Catacombs: The catacombs functioned as an old colonial cemetery until 1810. It is estimated that it must have housed between 25,000 to 70,000 people. 

How much does visiting Basílica y Convento de San Francisco de Lima cost?

The prices to visit the Basilica and Convent of San Francisco de Lima are as follows:

Adult (national or foreigner) s/15.00

University student s/8.00 

 

School s/3.00

Children s/3.00

 

What is the best vehicle for visiting Basílica y Convento de San Francisco de Lima?

The best way to get around the Historic Center of Lima is by cab.

You can also arrive using public transportation or your car, but traffic congestion, the search for parking lots, etc., may make it more convenient for you to go by taxi after certain hours. It is more convenient to use a cab.

Cab Satelital is one of the best cab services in Lima. They charge 20 to 30% more than a cab that you could take on the street, but that is compensated by the comfort and safety with which you will arrive at your destination.

Their contact number is (01)3555555, and they also have an application. 

How many hours should a person spend in Basílica y Convento de San Francisco de Lima?

The Basilica and Convent of San Francisco de Lima visit lasts approximately 45 minutes to an hour and a half. You can visit the most important attractions, such as the church, the cloister, and the catacombs.

What is the nearest city to Basílica y Convento de San Francisco de Lima?

The nearest city to Basílica y Convento de San Francisco is Lima, Peru’s capital. 

How is the Past of Basílica y Convento de San Francisco de Lima presented to the visitors?

The past of the Basílica y Convento de San Francisco, Lima, is presented to visitors as a place that evokes the history of the early years of the colonization of Peru and the introduction of Christianity to the local native people of Peru. 

Churches, palaces, monasteries, convents, and noble mansions have withstood strong earthquakes, and stand among plasterwork, masonry, carved doors, Nicaraguan cedar wood, baroque altarpieces, domes, and transepts full of colonial paintings. In the Damero, the past wanders as a witness to the echo of dark stories of ghosts and souls spread through time by oral tradition. Stories that remain in the urban conscience, in some cases as legends, and in others as realities.

Basilica and Convent of St. Francis of Assisi.

How is the Preservation of Basílica y Convento de San Francisco de Lima?

The preservation carried out by the Franciscan Fathers in the Basilica, and Convent of San Francisco de Lima has been highly questioned. 

According to a UNESCO report presented in 2018, it is stated that “the Convent of San Francisco de Lima has had unauthorized interventions that caused irreversible damage.” 

“The interventions involve intentional demolitions (chapels, cloisters, cells), repairs without conservation principles on tiles, altars and paintings, and the destruction of coffered ceilings and pavements.”

Pedro Castro, Provincial Secretary of the Franciscan Province of the 12 Apostles of Peru, affirmed that they tried to preserve the inheritance. “We are in a cloister that is now a museum. You can see the tiles and the walls standing, and these walls were falling down. It costs millions to maintain this.”

“That we have made some mistakes is possible. Today there is a lot of sensitivity about heritage protection. But we friars have lived and live here, and we have to accommodate ourselves in one way or another and protect the heritage, and we are doing it,” he explained.

He also commented that they know the significance of the architectural complex, which they have maintained for years, and want it to be cared for and respected. 

In another moment, Friar Pedro Castro recognized that “if perhaps in some decade, sometime, we have made some mistake, we have to take into account that many places in Lima, how many goods have disappeared, in full view and patience of the authorities”.

“To err is to sin. We do not say that we have kept everything intact, and we have kept everything. If you see and appreciate it, this work is thanks to the Franciscan community,” he said.

Is Basilica and Convent of San Francisco de Lima in UNESCO World Heritage Sites?

Yes, UNESCO declared the Basilica and Convent of San Francisco de Lima a World Cultural Heritage Site on December 8, 1988.

Is Basilica and Convent of San Francisco de Lima under danger?

The Basilica and Convent of San Francisco have been suffering severe dangers both in the internal preservation of the Basilica and Convent and in various actions carried out by the Municipality of Lima that could jeopardize the safety of the monumental complex.

Architects, conservators, and even UNESCO have severely criticized different interventions by the Franciscan Fathers in the Convent. According to them, no scientific criteria were followed since intentional demolitions of chapels, cloisters, and cells were carried out, as well as unprincipled repairs to tiles, altars, and paintings.

The Franciscan Fathers accepted the criticism and asked for support, goodwill and help for the proper conservation of the Basilica and Monastery. 

On the other hand, on February 5 of this year, personnel from the Municipality of Lima collapsed the 145-meter-long fence that connects the San Francisco church and the Sanctuary of the Señora de la Soledad. 

This generated protests from members of the Franciscan Order, who pointed out that removing the fence put the Basilica and the Convent of San Francisco at risk. The fathers obtained an injunction in the Peruvian judiciary that paralyzed the work. 

According to the Municipality of Lima spokesmen, this action had been notified to the Ministry of Culture and the Franciscan Congregation. The removal of the fence is part of the Master Plan for the Recovery of the Historic Center of Lima, a technical-regulatory document prepared under the recommendations of Unesco for the protection and conservation of heritage, whose implementation had been recognized by that institution.

Is Basilica and Convent of San Francisco de Lima collapsed?

The Basilica and Convent of San Francisco have not collapsed and is not at risk of collapsing any time soon. .

Throughout its history, the Basilica and Convent of San Francisco have suffered collapses due to the different earthquakes that have devastated the city of Lima since the XVI century. Despite the severe damages produced on more than one occasion, the Basilica and Convent of San Francisco have been able to recover, even to be erected again: as happened after the great earthquake of 1655 that made the building collapse and to have to reconstruct it again. With the help, at different times, of the Peruvian government, the Spanish government, UNESCO, and private support, the Basilica and Convent of San Francisco continue to this day as one of the most traditional, beautiful, and artistic religious spaces of the city of Lima and Peru.