Lima - Cathedral

(Local Name: Catedral) The Lima Cathedral dominates the east side of the Plaza de Armas. This is where most people tend to begin their tour of the historic district of Lima and visitors and locals can often be seen sitting on the stairs in front of the Cathedral.

Construction of the original Lima Cathedral was begun in 1535 and enlarged in 1564 based on the design of the cathedral in Sevilla. It was damaged by an earthquake in 1687 and almost destroyed by the big quake of 1746. Following this it was quickly rebuilt to its present appearance.

Highlights of the interior include the carved choir, a carving of Jesus in the chapel dedicated to St. John the Baptist, the churrigueresque (Spanish Baroque) altars, and the chapel containing the remains of Francisco Pizarro, the founder of Lima.

There is also a small Museum of Religious Art in the back of the Cathedral which is included in the cost of admission.