Monasterio de San Francisco

Overview

The Monasterio de San Francisco is Lima's most architecturally impressive colonial religious complex, renowned for its underground catacombs, Moorish-influenced cloister, and historic library. Built in the 17th century, it survived the catastrophic 1746 earthquake largely intact.

Highlights

• Catacombs: An eerie labyrinth of underground tunnels containing an estimated 25,000 human remains arranged in geometric patterns — bones sorted by type in circular wells.
• Library: A rare colonial library with 25,000 volumes, including books printed in the 15th and 16th centuries.
• Mudéjar Cloister: Beautiful Sevillian-tile cloister with Moorish arches, one of Lima's finest examples of colonial Islamic-influenced design.

History

Construction began in 1546 and the main church was completed in 1674. The catacombs served as Lima's main cemetery until 1808, when the Presbítero Maestro cemetery opened. The monastery complex was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site as part of Lima's historic center.

Visitor Tips

• Guided Only: The catacombs can only be visited with a guided tour (available in English and Spanish).
• Not for Claustrophobia: The catacomb tunnels are narrow and low — consider this before booking.
• Duration: 1–1.5 hours.