San Francisco Church

History

The Church of San Francisco in Arequipa has its origins in the arrival of the Franciscan friars in the 16th century. Shortly afterward, they began the construction of the church and convent to spread the Catholic faith in southern Peru. Its name honors Saint Francis of Assisi, founder of the Franciscan Order.

Over the centuries, the church went through several stages of reconstruction and restoration. It was expanded with the use of sillar, the volcanic stone characteristic of Arequipa, which gave it its current appearance. Today, it is a place of worship and tourism, and it houses a museum that preserves colonial religious art and history.

Description

The Church of San Francisco stands out for its colonial architecture and the use of sillar, the volcanic stone characteristic of Arequipa. Its architectural complex preserves spaces linked to Franciscan religious life, such as the church, the convent, the cloisters, and areas intended for prayer, education, and community life.

Its historical value can be appreciated in its architectural elements, religious art, and connection with the colonial history of the city.

Location

It is located on the first block of Zela Street, next to Plaza San Francisco.

Attractions

The Convent of San Francisco is closely linked to the history of the church. Over the centuries, it served as a place for education, meditation, and prayer. Today, the convent houses a museum that offers a glimpse into Arequipa’s colonial past.

• The Convent of San Francisco: The convent stands out for its large cloister, surrounded by columns and gardens, where the friars once walked and meditated in an atmosphere of peace and serenity. Its rooms and corridors still preserve part of their original structure, giving visitors an idea of Franciscan life during the colonial period.
• The Museum of San Francisco: The convent museum houses a collection of colonial religious art, including paintings, sculptures, sacred art, old manuscripts, and liturgical objects used by the friars.

Opening Hours and Fees

The reference visiting hours are Monday to Saturday, from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Admission to the church is usually free, while the convent museum may have an approximate entrance fee of S/ 10.00 for adults and S/ 5.00 for children.