Lima Cathedral: Prices, Opening Hours and the Tomb of Francisco Pizarro
The Cathedral of Lima is one of the most important religious sites in the city. It was established during the time of Francisco Pizarro and today it is one of the main attractions of the historic center.
Inside the cathedral visitors can admire its impressive architecture, collections of sacred art, historic chapels, and valuable artistic works. It is also possible to visit the crypt where the remains of Francisco Pizarro are located and the Religious Art Museum, where important colonial treasures are preserved.
In addition, during the visit you can also observe the famous wooden balconies, which are part of the tradition and history of Lima’s historic center.
What to see inside the Cathedral of Lima?
Inside the Cathedral of Lima you can admire its historic architecture and its important collection of sacred art. Valuable works of art are preserved inside that reflect centuries of faith and artistic mastery. Its beautiful chapels also stand out, decorated with viceroyalty paintings and religious sculptures. In addition, the crypts hold the remains of important historical figures, including Francisco Pizarro.
The crypt of Francisco Pizarro: history and discoveries
The story dates back to the morning of June 26, 1541, when the peace of the day was interrupted by a group of about twenty followers of Diego de Almagro.
Under the command of his lieutenant Juan de Herrada, the group violently entered the residence of Francisco Pizarro. After a brutal attack that included blows to the head, arms, and body, the conqueror was eventually killed.
After this tragic event, the authorities decided to safeguard his remains in a crypt inside the Cathedral of Lima. Later, a mausoleum was built in one of its chapels. The tomb, created in the early 20th century, was made using materials such as marble, bronze, silver, and gold.
The Religious Art Museum and its colonial treasures
The Religious Art Museum of the Cathedral of Lima is a true jewel of viceroyal architecture. Inside it preserves unique and irreplaceable works of art, many of them considered among the oldest in the city.
It is a must-visit place for those who arrive in Lima and wish to learn about part of the country’s religious heritage. Among its most notable pieces are altarpieces made between the 17th and 19th centuries, an extraordinary choir stall, and a crypt where several archbishops of Lima are buried.
The choir stalls and neoclassical altars
The choir stalls were created by Pedro de Noguera in the 18th century. On the backrests you can see figures of numerous saints, apostles, doctors of the church, popes, and bishops.
In the past, the choir was located in front of the main altar. On the back of the chair located in the left choir stall under a canopy is the figure of the Redeemer. The neoclassical main altarpiece is presided over by an image of the Immaculate Conception. Beneath the presbytery lies the crypt of the archbishops, where the remains of several leaders of the Lima church rest.
Architecture of the Basilica Cathedral
The Basilica Cathedral features a Renaissance style with Plateresque influences on its façade, along with neoclassical towers.
Its architecture has evolved over the centuries due to various reconstructions caused by earthquakes that affected the city of Lima. Inside you can also observe elements such as the choir stalls, chandeliers brought from Belgium, original doors from earlier structures of the cathedral, and Baroque details in the wooden ceilings and ribbed vaults.
Reconstruction after the earthquakes of Lima
During a major renovation carried out in the early 20th century, the original floors were replaced by the current marble floors.
During that same period, decorative elements were brought from Europe, including marble sculptures that decorate the chapels.
Work was also carried out on the ceilings and some interior elements of the cathedral were reorganized, such as the choir stalls and ornamental chandeliers.
The Archbishop’s Palace and its famous wooden balconies
The route of the colonial balconies of Lima is one of the most interesting cultural experiences in the historic center.
These wooden balconies, with carved latticework and unique designs, represent a living symbol of viceroyal and republican Lima.
Walking through the streets of the historic center allows visitors to discover centuries of history reflected in its traditional architecture. In the Plaza Mayor of Lima, the starting point for many tourist routes, stands the Archbishop’s Palace, known for its two large carved wooden balconies, considered among the most representative examples of the neocolonial style.
Visitor information for tourists
Below are some important recommendations for your visit.
Entrance prices and combined tickets
Entrance prices may vary depending on the visitor’s nationality or condition.
- Peruvians or residents with ID: 20 soles
- Foreign visitors: 30 soles
- Peruvian or resident seniors: 10 soles
- University students: 10 soles
- Foreign children (6 to 12 years old): 15 soles
- National children (6 to 12 years old): 10 soles
- Children under 6 years old: Free admission
Mass schedule and guided visits
Mass schedules are usually:
- Saturdays: 9:00 a.m.
- Sundays: 11:00 a.m.
These ceremonies are open to the general public.
Tourist visiting hours are:
- Monday to Friday: 9:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.
- Saturdays: 10:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m.
- Sundays: 1:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Guided tours usually have a cost similar to the entrance ticket.
Recommendations for visitors
Here are some recommendations for visitors.
Dress code and photography rules inside the temple
It is important to maintain respect for the religious nature of the place. Visitors are advised to wear modest or semi-formal clothing to avoid any inconvenience during the visit.
It is also important to take photographs only in areas where photography is permitted or indicated by the guide.
Exact location in Plaza Mayor
The Cathedral of Lima is located in the Plaza Mayor of Lima, in the historic center of the city, one of the most important and visited places by national and international tourists.
