Museo y Catacumbas del Convento de San Francisco de Asís de Cusco
About This Museum
Stepping into the Convent of San Francisco de Asís feels like entering a quiet, sun-drenched vault where Cusco's colonial and indigenous histories collide. Founded in the 16th century on the grounds of an Incan palace, its very stones tell a story of conquest and conversion. The air inside is cool and heavy with the scent of old wood and incense, a stark contrast to the bustling plaza just outside its doors. You don't just see art here; you feel the weight of centuries in the silent corridors and the gilded altars that seem to swallow the light.
Collection Highlights
The main draw is undoubtedly the monumental painting of 'The Last Supper' by Marcos Zapata, where Christ and his apostles are gathered around a table featuring a roasted guinea pig, a brilliant fusion of European religion and Andean life. Beyond this, you'll find an overwhelming collection of colonial art, including a haunting series from the 'Cuzco School' where archangels are depicted as triumphant musketeers in intricate lace and gold leaf.
Visitor Information
Don't miss descending into the labyrinthine catacombs beneath the main church—it's a slightly eerie but utterly fascinating glimpse into burial practices of the era. Give yourself at least an hour to properly absorb everything, and wear comfortable shoes for all the stone staircases.
Architecture & Building
The structure is a classic example of Spanish Colonial architecture, built with massive, earthquake-resistant stone blocks that were likely repurposed from Incan foundations. Its facade is relatively austere, which makes the explosion of Baroque gold leaf inside the main nave all the more dramatic.
Contact & Location
Address: Plaza San Francisco, Santa Ana, Cuzco, Distrito de Cusco, Cusco, 08001, Perú
Phone: +51 84 431764
Website: Visit Website
