Iglesia y Convento de La Merced

Overview

The Basílica de Nuestra Señora de la Merced is one of Lima's oldest religious foundations, with a magnificent Churrigueresque granite façade and peaceful colonial cloisters.

Highlights

• Churrigueresque façade: An intensely ornamental carved-stone frontispiece.
• Cloister gardens: Quiet courtyards with Sevillian azulejo tilework.
• Colonial art: Paintings and sculptures from the Viceregal period.

History

Founded by the Mercedarian order in 1534, just one year after Lima's founding, the church has been rebuilt several times after earthquakes, most recently in the 18th century.

Visitor Tips

• Tip 1: The cloister is the highlight — quieter and less visited than San Francisco.
• Tip 2: Located on Jirón de la Unión, easy to combine with a centro walk.
• Duration: 20–30 minutes.