Basilica and Convent of San Francisco Private Tour Lima

The Basilica and Convent of San Francisco in Lima offers a captivating private tour that delves into the city’s rich colonial history. Visitors can explore the stunning Baroque architecture, adorned with gilded altars and intricate frescoes, while learning about the blend of Spanish and indigenous art influences. But the tour’s highlight is the eerie catacombs, housing over 25,000 remains, which provide a haunting glimpse into the past. With a knowledgeable guide, travelers uncover captivating stories and treasures, ensuring an unforgettable experience in one of Lima’s architectural marvels.

Key Points

• Explore the 16th-century Baroque architectural marvels of the Basilica and Convent of San Francisco in Lima, including the ornate church facade and cloisters.
• Venture into the eerie catacombs beneath the complex, housing the remains of over 25,000 Lima residents, and learn about the site’s solemn history.
• Admire the impressive collection of religious art and artifacts on display in the sacristy, including ornately embroidered vestments and colonial-era paintings.
• Immerse in Lima’s colonial past through captivating anecdotes and exploration of the cloisters, deepening appreciation for the site’s architectural and historical significance.
• The private tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, operating regardless of weather, with limited group sizes for personalized attention.

Discover the Architectural Marvels

On this private tour, visitors will discover the architectural marvels of the Basílica and Convent of San Francisco.

The 16th-century complex boasts intricate Baroque facades, gilded altars, and remarkable frescoes. Highlights include the church’s ornate facade, the convent’s cloisters, and the catacombs beneath housing thousands of human remains.

Guides will share insights into the history and significance of these structures, which are among Lima’s most iconic landmarks.

Visitors will be captivated by the harmonious blend of Spanish and indigenous artistic influences that characterize this remarkable religious complex.

Exploring the Catacombs

What lies beneath the Basílica and Convent of San Francisco? A vast network of catacombs, housing the remains of over 25,000 Lima residents.

Visitors descend into this eerie underground ossuary, their footsteps echoing through the dimly lit halls. Rows of skulls and bones line the walls, arranged in intricate patterns.

Visitors descend into this eerie underground ossuary, their footsteps echoing through the dimly lit halls. Rows of skulls and bones line the walls, arranged in intricate patterns.

Guides share the history of this ancient burial site, once used to inter the poor and destitute. Wandering through the catacombs, one is struck by the solemn beauty and haunting atmosphere, a testament to Lima’s complex past.

This unique experience offers a glimpse into the city’s hidden depths.

Treasures of the Sacristy

The sacristy of the Basílica and Convent of San Francisco houses a remarkable collection of religious art and artifacts.

Visitors will find:

• Ornately embroidered vestments and capes worn by clergy

• A museum-quality collection of colonial-era paintings and frescoes

• An impressive array of chalices, platters, and other sacred vessels

• Intricately carved wooden furniture and cabinetry

• Reliquaries containing the remains of Catholic saints

This hidden gem offers a glimpse into Lima’s storied religious history and the enduring craftsmanship of Peru’s colonial era.

Taking in Lima’s History

Taking in Lima’s History

Stepping through the grand doorway, visitors are instantly transported to colonial-era Lima. The Basilica and Convent of San Francisco stand as a testament to the city’s rich past.

Your guide brings this history to life, sharing captivating anecdotes and little-known facts. Explore the cloisters, where monks once roamed, and be awestruck by the intricate baroque architecture.

Descend into the eerie catacombs, where the bones of over 70,000 people are interred. This immersive experience offers a glimpse into Lima’s vibrant heritage, leaving guests with a deeper appreciation for the city’s enduring legacy.

Insider Perspectives From the Guide

Your knowledgeable guide leads you through the Basilica and Convent, revealing little-known stories that bring the site’s history to life.

As you explore, you’ll learn:

• The significance of the intricate facades and bell towers that showcase Lima’s colonial architecture.

• How the Catacombs beneath the church were once used as mass graves.

• Fascinating details about the legendary library that housed over 25,000 rare books and manuscripts.

• The symbolism behind the Mudéjar-style cloister, blending Moorish and Spanish influences.

• Insights into the Franciscan order‘s role in shaping Lima’s religious and cultural heritage.

Accessibility and Participation Details

Wheelchair users and those with strollers can easily navigate the Basilica and Convent, as the tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible.

It’s located near public transportation, making it convenient for most travelers. Infants must sit on laps during the tour. The majority of visitors can participate comfortably.

The walking tour operates regardless of weather conditions, so travelers should wear comfortable shoes.

Group sizes are limited to 1-25 guests to ensure personal attention, though larger groups can be accommodated with additional guides at higher prices.

Booking and Logistics

Confirmation is received at the time of booking for this private tour of the Basilica and Convent of San Francisco in Lima.

Travelers have the flexibility to cancel up to 24 hours before the experience starts for a full refund. The tour price varies based on group size, starting from $131 per person. Guests can reserve now and pay later to lock in the experience.

The day before the tour, travelers will receive important information from the tour operator, Rosotravel. The tour operates rain or shine, and comfortable walking shoes are recommended.

• Free cancellation up to 24 hours before

• Flexible booking – reserve now, pay later

• Group size limited to 1-25 guests

• Price varies based on group size

• Important pre-tour information provided

Sum Up

The Basilica and Convent of San Francisco Private Tour in Lima offers a captivating journey through the city’s colonial past. Visitors can marvel at the stunning Baroque architecture, uncover the eerie secrets of the catacombs, and gain insider perspectives from a knowledgeable guide. This immersive experience provides an unforgettable glimpse into Lima’s rich history and cultural influences.