Plaza San Francisco: Impressive History

A Place for Everyone

Plaza San Francisco offers a more peaceful and laid-back experience, while Plaza de Armas is full of energy and activity. Located just a short walk from Plaza de Armas, Plaza San Francisco feels like an oasis in the middle of the city. When I visited, the plaza was much quieter and more relaxed, making it the perfect place to unwind after exploring the busy streets of Cusco.

The small garden in the center of Plaza San Francisco is a lovely spot to sit and enjoy the surroundings. As I sat on a bench, snacking on some delicious empanadas from a nearby vendor, I watched locals go about their day. The pace of life here seemed slower, and I appreciated the calmness of the square.

Connecting People and Places

 One of the oldest and most prestigious educational institutions in Peru, it carries a deep sense of history and significance Established in 1825 by Simón Bolívar, the Colegio Nacional de Ciencias has educated some of Peru’s most notable figures, including politicians, writers, and intellectuals.

As I strolled around the square, I spotted locals practicing traditional dances in front of the building, sharing their love for Cusqueñan culture. This was accompanied by the sounds of Peruvian flutes and drums, creating an authentic musical backdrop that made the plaza feel alive. 

Experience the Spirit of San Francisco Plaza

The San Francisco Church in Cusco dates back to the 16th century, making it one of the oldest churches in the city. The church was originally built in 1572, shortly after the Spanish conquest of Peru, and it represents the blend of Spanish colonial influence and indigenous culture that defines much of Cusco’s architectural heritage. It was constructed by the Franciscan Order, which played a significant role in the spread of Catholicism throughout Peru.

Over the centuries, the church has faced numerous challenges, including earthquakes and structural damage. However, it has been lovingly restored each time, maintaining its historical and architectural integrity. Today, the San Francisco Church stands as a testament to the resilience of Cusco’s rich cultural history.

Upon entering the church, I was struck by the grandeur of the interior. The high vaulted ceilings, tall columns, and elegant woodwork are breathtaking. The main altar is a masterpiece in itself, decorated with statues of saints and religious icons that reflect the deep spirituality of the Franciscan Order.

Underground Chambers

The Museo de Catacombs in Cusco, Peru, is an intriguing and somewhat mysterious site that offers a glimpse into the city’s colonial past. Located within a historic church, this museum houses two catacombs that serve as the main attractions. One catacomb lies beneath the main altar, and it’s the larger of the two. The other, smaller catacomb is situated under another altar on the opposite side. I ventured into the Museo de Catacombs alone! The darkness and eerie silence gave me pause as I stood at the top of the stairs. Alone and unsure of how to proceed, I sought out the church custodian, who kindly explained that the lights would illuminate the space once I took the last steps down. With a deep breath, I descended, and sure enough, the dim space gradually lit up around me. I came across hundreds of bones and relics that are centuries old. As I walked through the catacombs, I offered prayers, feeling a deep sense of reverence, even as the solitude added a touch of unease.

 Plaza San Francisco: The Convent 

The art, paintings and artifacts inside the museum at the Convent of San Francisco de Asís are truly captivating, and it’s natural for me to capture their beauty and share them with you. I couldn’t help but imagine how incredible it would be to take photos of these masterpieces – to freeze those moments and share them with others who haven’t had the chance to see them in person.

While photography is generally restricted within the church and museum, they offer printed photos for sale, allowing visitors to capture memories of their visit for about 5 soles each.  Admittedly, I made the mistake of taking a few photos at the San Pedro Church. I regret this oversight and apologize for not adhering to the guidelines.

The museum was remarkably quiet, with only three other visitors present when I came in.

Fascinating Journey into the Past

• The San Francisco Church also boasts a library that contains a vast collection of ancient books and manuscripts, some of which date back to the colonial period. These rare texts cover a wide range of subjects, including theology, philosophy, and history, and offer a unique insight into the intellectual pursuits of the Franciscan Order during the colonial era. 
• The church is home to an extensive collection of religious paintings, many of which are attributed to the Cusco School of Art. One of the most famous paintings in the church is the “Last Supper,” which features a distinctively Peruvian touch – a roasted guinea pig (a traditional Andean dish) is depicted as the main course.
• One of the most impressive features of the church is the choir area, where you can find beautifully carved wooden stalls that date back to the 17th century. These carvings are considered to be some of the finest examples of colonial woodwork in Peru and add to the church’s rich historical significance.
•  Museo de Catacombs in Cusco, Peru. As you descend into these underground chambers, you can feel the weight of history around you
• Impressive feature of the convent is its large central courtyard, surrounded by arched walkways and beautifully manicured gardens.