Iglesia de San Pedro

Overview

Iglesia de San Pedro is one of Lima's most lavishly decorated Baroque churches, built by the Jesuits in 1638. Its gilded altars and colonial-era ceiling paintings are among the finest in South America.

Highlights

• Gilded retablos: Baroque altarpieces layered in gold leaf.
• Mudéjar ceilings: Geometric wooden coffered ceilings reflecting Moorish influence.
• Side chapels: Colonial paintings by Angelino Medoro and other masters.

History

The Jesuits began construction in 1568 and completed the church in 1638. After the Jesuit expulsion in 1767, the church continued as a parish and was declared a national monument.

Visitor Tips

• Tip 1: Free entry; the church is open for visits outside of Mass hours.
• Tip 2: Look up at the Mudéjar ceiling — the Islamic-influenced woodwork is extraordinary.
• Duration: 20–30 minutes.