Museo de la Inquisición

Overview

The Museo de la Inquisición is housed in the former headquarters of the Spanish Inquisition's Lima tribunal. Its vaulted basement cells and life-size wax dioramas vividly recreate the tribunal's operations.

Highlights

• Torture chambers: Reconstructed dungeon cells with wax-figure dioramas.
• Tribunal hall: The original wooden ceiling of the hearing room survives.
• Senate chamber: The building now also houses Peru's Senate, adding a layer of political history.

History

The Lima Inquisition operated from 1570 to 1820, processing over 1,400 cases. The building, on Plaza Bolivar, was converted into a museum in 1968.

Visitor Tips

• Tip 1: Free entry — one of Lima's best free museum experiences.
• Tip 2: The wax figures can be intense; not recommended for young children.
• Duration: 45–60 minutes.