Trujillo Cathedral
La Libertad
The Trujillo Cathedral, also known as the Cathedral Basilica of Santa María, is the main church of Trujillo, Peru, located prominently in the Plaza de Armas. Its construction spanned from 1647 to 1666, following the destruction of earlier churches by devastating earthquakes in 1619 and 1635. The cathedral showcases a sober interior with Rococo altarpieces painted white and gold, alongside a unique Churrigueresque Baroque main altarpiece covered in gold leaf, one of only two of its kind remaining in Peru. The cathedral's vault and dome feature exquisite paintings that have earned it the nickname "Sistine Chapel of the Coast." It houses a Cathedral Museum preserving colonial-era religious works in gold and silver. The cathedral also holds historical significance in Baroque music, having been led by the notable maestro Roque Ceruti in the early 18th century. The Spanish painter Leonardo Jaramillo's work "Cristo de la columna" (1643) is among its treasured art pieces. Despite damage from the 1970 earthquake, including the loss of the campanile and dome, the cathedral was fully restored two decades later, preserving its architectural and cultural heritage.
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Consejo: Visitors should consider visiting during weekdays to avoid weekend crowds and enjoy a quieter experience. Purchasing tickets or arranging guided tours in advance is recommended, especially for groups. The cathedral offers discounts for students and seniors. Check the official website or contact the cathedral for current opening hours and special events. Photography inside may be restricted, so inquire beforehand. The best time to visit is during daylight hours to fully appreciate the interior artwork and altarpieces.
Datos interesantes
- •The cathedral's main altarpiece is one of only two "exempt" Churrigueresque Baroque altarpieces in Peru, meaning it stands free without support from any wall.
- •It is nicknamed the "Sistine Chapel of the Coast" due to its remarkable ceiling and dome paintings.
- •The cathedral houses a museum with colonial-era religious artworks in gold and silver.
- •Roque Ceruti, an important Baroque composer, served as maestro de capilla here from 1721 to 1728.
- •The Spanish painter Leonardo Jaramillo's 1643 work "Cristo de la columna" is displayed in the cathedral.
Historia
Originally founded as a modest mother church shortly after Trujillo's foundation in the 1530s, the building was elevated to cathedral status in 1616 by Pope Paul V.
However, it was destroyed by earthquakes in 1619 and again in 1635.
The current structure was largely built under architect Francisco de Soto Ríos starting in 1647 and completed by Francisco Balboa in 1666.
In 1967, Pope Paul VI elevated it to a Minor Basilica.
The 1970 earthquake caused severe damage, demolishing the campanile and dome, which was fully restored by the late 20th century.
Guía del lugar
Main Altarpiece17th century
A unique, free-standing Churrigueresque Baroque altarpiece covered in gold leaf, notable for being one of only two of its kind in Peru. It dominates the cathedral's interior and exemplifies exquisite craftsmanship.
Vault and Dome Paintings17th century
The cathedral's vault and dome feature beautiful paintings that have earned it the nickname 'Sistine Chapel of the Coast.' These artworks depict religious scenes with fine detail and vibrant colors.
Cathedral Museum
Houses a collection of religious artworks from the colonial era crafted in gold and silver, showcasing the region's rich ecclesiastical heritage.
Cristo de la columna1643
A religious painting created in 1643 by Spanish painter Leonardo Jaramillo, displayed within the cathedral.
Contacto
Teléfono: 976 909 049