Churches in Cusco
Cuzco is a layered tapestry of different cultures, with the ancient Incan empire being intertwined with colonial architecture. Several churches have been built around crumbling temples, most of which only parts remain intact. Listed below are the churches and temples of Cuzco, beginning with the magnificent Koricancha Temple, one of the few relics left behind by the Incas.
The Koricancha Temple
The Koricancha Temple is located at the intersection of El Sol Avenue and Santo Domingo Street and is opened from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm Monday through Saturday. For the Inca civilization, this was one of the most worshiped and respected temples. The Santo Domingo temple was built during the 17th century on top of the walls of the Koricancha. This attraction represents the mixing of Inca and Spanish culture, but here Inca architecture clearly prevails as the more magnificent.
Further Information
La Compania de Jesus
This church is known as the most beautiful in all of Cuzco, which is a pretty high compliment in a place with so many churches. It's intricate, elaborate interior, Baroque façade, and finely carved balconies took nearly 100 years to complete. It is located on the southeast corner of the Plaza de Armas underneath what used to be Inca Huayna Capac's palace. It is open daily from 9 to 11am and 3 to 6pm.
Catedral
Cuzco's magnificent cathedral has the best views of the Plaza de Armas and is an interesting example of the blending of Spanish renaissance architecture with the master stone working skills of the Incas. The cathedral was built on top of the palace of Inca Wiracocha and made partly from the stones hauled from the fortress of Sacsayhuaman outside the city. Visiting hours are Mon-Sat 10 to 11:10am and 2 to 5:30pm.
Iglesia de la Merced
Just across the street from the Plaza de Armas is the Iglesia de la Merced, one of the most important churches in the city. After being devastated by the earthquake of 1650, the church was rebuilt four years later and holds the remains of Spanish conquistadors Gonzalo Pizzaro and Diego de Almagro. The Museo de Arte Religiouso is also connected to the church where you can view several Rubens paintings and other fine masterworks.
Convento y Museo de Santa Cantalina
Located at the Plaza de Armas on Calle Arequipa is a Christian holy center that was formerly a convent for Inca "chosen women" who devoted their lives to the Sun God. Today it houses important works of religious art that blends Indian and Spanish cultures. It is open Mon - Thurs and Sat. 9am-5:30pm; Fri. 9am-3pm.
Iglesia de San Francisco
This simple and elegant church in the garden square of the Plaza San Francisco has an extensive collection of colonial art, including a painting of the family tree of St. Francis Assisi, which is the largest canvas in South America. It is open for Mass Mon-Sat. 7am, 6:30pm and 7pm, Sun. 7am, 9am, 11am, and 7am.
Iglesia de Santa Clara
Just a few blocks from the Plaza San Francisco on Calle Santa Clara is a beautiful church that is home to a closed order of nuns. The 16th century church is known for its tiny mirrors that cover the interior. It is open for Mass daily at 7pm.
Iglesia San Blas
In Barrio San Blas on Calle Hatunruniyoc is the Iglesia San Blas, which has a beautifully carved pulpit that is regarded as one of the world's finest pieces of woodwork. It is open Mon-Sat 10-11:30am and Thurs. 2-5:30pm.
El Triunfo
Adjacent to the cathedral in the Plaza de Armas, the El Triunfo was Cuzco's first Christian Church. It was built after the great rebellion of 1536, making it the city's oldest. Visiting hours are Mon-Sat 10 to 11:10am and 2 to 5:30pm.
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