The Church of the Society of Jesus, located at the southeastern corner of the Plaza de Armas, is the most representative temple of Arequipa’s architecture. Belonging to the Jesuit order, it is one of the oldest and most important churches in the city. Its imposing baroque facade, built during the colonial era, makes it an architectural jewel admired by locals and visitors alike. Inside, it houses valuable treasures, such as the finely carved pulpit and the main altar, both covered in gold leaf. Throughout its history, the constant earthquakes that have struck the city forced the church to be rebuilt several times. Today, it remains one of the most admired temples in Arequipa.
The Church of the Society of Jesus: A Colonial Monument in Arequipa
The Church of the Society of Jesus is a colonial monument built at the end of the 16th century during the Viceroyalty era. Throughout its history, it has been rebuilt several times due to the constant earthquakes that have affected the region. Its impressive facade, decorated with intricate baroque details, was restored in 1698 after a strong earthquake.
Inside, the majestic main altar stands out, carved from fine wood and covered in gold leaf. It features sculptures and images of important Christian figures, such as St. Ignatius of Loyola and St. Francis of Borja.
The church is open to the public every day of the year, and entry is free during regular hours.
History of the Church of the Society of Jesus
The history of the Church of the Society of Jesus is closely linked to the foundation of the city of Arequipa, on August 15, 1540. A few years later, the Jesuit order was established in the city by the religious Santiago de Loyola. In 1578, construction of the church began under the direction of master Gaspar Báez, but after the 1582 earthquake, reconstruction was entrusted to Jesuit Diego Felipe.
During the 20th century, the church’s cloisters were sold, and several repairs were made, which contributed to giving it its current form. Finally, in 1972, the government of Peru declared the Church of the Society of Jesus a Historical Monument, recognizing its great architectural value.
Architecture: Baroque Mestizo at Its Finest
The architecture of the Church of the Society of Jesus is a magnificent example of the mestizo baroque style, a fusion of European traditions and local indigenous influences. This style is distinguished by its abundant ornamentation and the use of natural motifs, such as flowers and animals, reflecting the Andean worldview. The church’s facade is one of its most impressive elements, with intricate carvings in sillar stone, a volcanic material typical of the White City. The ornaments on the facade represent both religious scenes and elements of nature, creating a composition full of symbolism.
The main altarpiece, covered in gold leaf, houses a painting of the Virgin with the Child at its center, attributed to the Renaissance painter Bernardo Bitti. Another standout feature is the Chapel of St. Ignatius, whose dome is adorned with beautiful details. To one side of the church are two cloisters, where the Colegio de Santiago once operated, making it one of the main attractions of the Historic Center of Arequipa.
Interior of the Church: Altarpieces and Works of Art
The interior of the Church of the Society of Jesus is filled with carvings and relics with religious motifs, notably the gilded altarpieces, which are a prime example of colonial art. These altarpieces are adorned with sculptures and details depicting biblical episodes. Additionally, the main pulpit, carved with great skill and covered in gold leaf, is another remarkable element. The set of three altarpieces, coated in gold leaf, includes figures from both Andean and colonial imagery.
The main altar, made of cedar, oak, and willow, is baroque in style and houses a collection of sixty-six images of saints and virgins, including St. Ignatius of Loyola. At its center is the tabernacle, made of repoussé silver, a work by the Cusco artist Pedro Gutiérrez.
In addition to the main altarpiece, there are two side altarpieces. The first is the “Altarpiece of the Founders,” depicting sculptures of the founders of the Jesuit order. The second is the “Altarpiece of Christ Crucified,” where the Virgin Mary and the apostles are represented.
Finally, the church houses gold and silver relics, as well as colonial paintings from the famous “Cusco School,” an indigenous artistic movement that flourished during the Viceroyalty of Peru. The immense dome of the church features images of eight saints. Both European artists and local craftsmen contributed to the decoration of the church.
Location and How to Get to the Church of the Society of Jesus
The Church of the Society of Jesus is located at the Plaza de Armas in Arequipa, a place easily accessible to tourists visiting the city. Simply head to the main square and walk to the corner leading to Morán Street.
Visiting Hours and Entrance Fee
The church is open to the public during regular hours:
- Monday to Sunday from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. and from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
The entrance fee varies depending on whether you are a national or foreign tourist, with lower rates for Peruvian residents.
- The entrance fee for tourists is S/. 20.00
I recommend checking online or directly at the church for updated information on entrance fees and any special events taking place there.
