Church of the Society of Jesus
A magnificent 18th-century stone church renowned for its opulent gold-leaf altar and impressive Baroque architecture.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Attend mass or explore quietly
Church of the Society of Jesus
Best Time
Attend mass or explore quietly
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A magnificent 18th-century stone church renowned for its opulent gold-leaf altar and impressive Baroque architecture.
"The gold-leaf altar was incredible to see, along with the small crypt and the viewpoint from near the top of the church."
📸 Respect Photography Rules
Check current photo policies; non-flash photography is sometimes tolerated, but be discreet.
💰 Affordable Entrance Fee
The entrance fee is reasonable compared to other nearby cathedrals, offering good value.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Gilded Altar Facade
Main Altar
Marvel at the stunning interior, particularly the main altar covered in intricate gold leaf.
Architectural Grandeur
Interior and Exterior
Appreciate the impressive architecture, both inside and out, showcasing historical craftsmanship.
Crypt Exhibit
Underground
Explore the small crypt, offering a glimpse into the church's historical foundations.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Ticketing and Photography Etiquette
Timing Your Visit for Mass
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Respect Photography Rules
Check current photo policies; non-flash photography is sometimes tolerated, but be discreet.
💰 Affordable Entrance Fee
The entrance fee is reasonable compared to other nearby cathedrals, offering good value.
⏳ Self-Guided Tour
A 30-45 minute self-guided tour with informative captions is recommended.
📍 Plaza Gathering Point
The surrounding plaza is a lively hub, especially busy with vendors at night.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Respect Photography Rules
Check current photo policies; non-flash photography is sometimes tolerated, but be discreet.
💰 Affordable Entrance Fee
The entrance fee is reasonable compared to other nearby cathedrals, offering good value.
⏳ Self-Guided Tour
A 30-45 minute self-guided tour with informative captions is recommended.
📍 Plaza Gathering Point
The surrounding plaza is a lively hub, especially busy with vendors at night.
🙏 Check Mass Schedules
Sunday masses are at noon and 6 PM, but holiday schedules can vary. Ask locals for confirmation.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the church's stunning gold-leaf altar and impressive architecture, finding it a beautiful and affordable attraction. While photography rules can be strict, many appreciate the self-guided tour and the vibrant atmosphere of the surrounding plaza. The crypt exhibit is generally considered less worthwhile.
"I liked the outside of the cathedral as well as the main gold facade at the alter of the church. But cathedrals that charge you money and are then insistent that you do not take any photos whatsoever really rubs me the wrong way. Of course I snuck some (non flash) photos anyway because it doesn’t hurt anything and I paid money to get in. Also, the crypt exhibit is really bad and not worth seeing"
Randy Troyer
"Wonderful church with great Architecture inside and out. A nice 30 mins self guided tour inside with helpful captions telling you of the history of all the pieces inside."
Chris Hadland
"As a tourist, this cathedral amazed me. The entrance fee is 12 soles (3-4 USD), which is less than half of the entrance fee of the other nearby cathedral. The gold-leaf altar was incredible to see, along with the small crypt and the viewpoint from near the top of the church. This self guided tour should only take 45-1 hour, but I would recommend this to anyone!"
Ryan Holderby
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The church is located in a central plaza, often a major gathering point. It's easily accessible by local transport or on foot if you're in the city center. The surrounding area is busy, especially at night with vendors.
Parking in the immediate vicinity can be challenging due to its central location and busy plaza. It's advisable to use public transportation or a taxi.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee is approximately 12 soles (around 3-4 USD), which is considered affordable compared to other nearby attractions.
Photography rules can be strict. While some visitors take discreet non-flash photos, it's best to inquire about current policies upon arrival to avoid issues.
Opening hours can vary, especially around mass times. It's recommended to check locally or confirm with your accommodation.
As a place of worship, modest dress is generally recommended. Shoulders and knees should be covered.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
A self-guided tour, including viewing the altar and crypt, usually takes about 30-45 minutes.
The crypt exhibit is a small underground area. Some visitors find it less compelling and not worth the extra time or fee.
The church primarily offers a self-guided tour with informative captions detailing the history of its pieces.
The gold leaf altar is a central and visually striking feature of the church's interior, known for its intricate design and opulent appearance.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no dining facilities within the church itself. However, the surrounding plaza and nearby streets offer numerous dining options.
The area around the church is a major gathering point with many vendors and restaurants offering local cuisine.
📸 📸 Photography
The main gold-leaf altar is a prime subject. Be mindful of photography restrictions and avoid using flash.
Yes, the church's exterior architecture is impressive. The surrounding plaza also offers opportunities for wider shots, especially at night when it's busy with vendors.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the crypt exhibit might not be of great interest to kids, the main church area offers plenty to look at. Be mindful of photography rules, as children might be tempted to take pictures. The surrounding plaza is also a lively area, which can be a fun place for kids to observe the activity after visiting the church.
💰 Budget Travelers
Combine your visit with exploring the bustling surrounding plaza, which is a hub of activity and often features vendors, providing a free cultural experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Architectural and Artistic Significance
Beyond the gilded altar, the church's exterior also presents a grand facade that complements the surrounding plaza. The historical captions placed throughout the interior provide valuable context, allowing visitors to understand the significance of various artworks and architectural elements. This makes for an enriching self-guided experience, even without a formal tour guide.
While the main altar is a highlight, the church also features a small crypt accessible to visitors. Though some reviews suggest it's not a must-see, it offers a deeper look into the church's historical layers. The overall experience is often described as a worthwhile and relatively quick visit, especially given its affordable entrance fee.
Attending Mass and Visitor Experience
It's important to note that mass schedules, particularly on holidays, can be subject to cancellation. Travelers seeking to attend are advised to confirm times locally, as taxi drivers are often a reliable source of up-to-date information.
Beyond mass, the church offers a self-guided tour that takes approximately 30 to 45 minutes. This allows visitors to explore at their own pace, absorbing the history and art with the help of informative captions.
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