Temple of San Francisco de Asís

The Temple of San Francisco de Asís in Arequipa is one of the architectural treasures of the city, characterized by its elegant white ashlar construction, typical of Arequipa. This colonial temple was built by the Franciscan Order in the 16th century, making it one of the first religious buildings in the city and a representative example of the Arequipa Baroque style. Located in the historic center, the temple is part of the San Francisco Complex, which also includes a convent and a small square that invites rest and reflection.

Location

The Temple of San Francisco is located in the Plazuela de San Francisco, a few blocks from the Plaza de Armas of Arequipa, at the intersection of Zela and San Francisco streets. Its central location makes it easily accessible from other tourist spots in the city center.

What the Temple of San Francisco de Asís Offers

The temple is a wonder for lovers of colonial architecture and religious art. Its imposing façade and delicate decorations in ashlar, its gilded altarpieces, and the side chapels offer visitors an experience that invites contemplation. In addition, the complex houses pieces of sacred art and colonial sculptures of great historical value.

Main Attractions

1. Arequipeño Baroque Style Façade: The temple’s façade is in a sober baroque style, with details carved in ashlar that show great craftsmanship. Its simple, yet imposing structure stands out for the symmetry of its towers and the white tone of the volcanic stone, which shines in the sunlight.
2. Interior and Gilded Altarpieces: Inside, the temple houses several baroque and rococo style altarpieces, covered with gold leaf, which stand out for their complexity and beauty. These altars reflect the deep religious devotion of the time and show scenes from the life of St. Francis of Assisi and other Franciscan saints.
3. Chapels and Cloisters of the Convent: The convent attached to the temple has several chapels, patios and a well-preserved cloister, where visitors can walk through corridors surrounded by ashlar arches. The cloister contains tombs and a calm atmosphere, ideal for reflection.
4. Museum of Sacred Art: The convent houses a small museum where pieces from the Cusco School and other works of sacred art are exhibited, such as paintings, sculptures and religious objects of great artistic and historical value.

Activities at the Temple of San Francisco de Asís

• Explore Architecture and Sacred Art: Visitors can admire the architectural details both outside and inside the temple. The altarpieces, sculptures and paintings allow them to appreciate the talent of colonial artists.
• Tour the Cloister of the Convent: This space offers a peaceful atmosphere and has tombs and well-kept gardens. It is ideal for those seeking a moment of peace or wanting to learn more about religious life in colonial times.
• English:Photography: The sobriety and elegance of the temple and the complex make it an excellent place for photography, both of the ashlar façade and the details of the interior.
• Guided Tour of the Museum of Sacred Art: It is recommended to take a guided tour to learn the history behind the religious pieces and understand the cultural and religious context of each work.

Recommendations

• Respect the Religious Space: As the temple is still a place of worship, it is important to be respectful when taking photographs and to maintain silence inside, especially during mass times.
• Visit during Soft Light Hours: To make the most of the beauty of the façade, it is advisable to visit during the early morning hours or at dusk, when the light highlights the details of the white stone.
• Comfortable Clothing and Footwear: The surroundings and the convent have cobblestone streets and hallways, so it is advisable to wear comfortable shoes to walk around the place.

Costs and Hours

• Visiting Hours: The temple and the museum are usually open from Monday to Saturday, from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
• Entry Fee: Entrance to the temple is free, although the convent museum may have an entrance fee of around 10 soles. This amount is used for the maintenance and preservation of the complex.

How to Get There

• On Foot: Given its proximity to the Plaza de Armas of Arequipa, the Temple of San Francisco is easily accessible on foot from various points in the historic center.
• By Taxi: From any point in Arequipa, taxis can take you to the temple in a few minutes. For greater safety, it is recommended to use authorized taxis or mobile applications.
• By Guided Tour: Many historical tours of the city include a stop at the San Francisco Complex, as well as other religious and colonial sites in the center.

Extra Tip

When leaving the temple, you can take the opportunity to rest in the Plazuela de San Francisco, where you can visit the Plaza de Armas …