reflects the country’s complex history, blending indigenous, Spanish, and other European influences. You’ll love these 15 most beautiful colonial buildings in Peru – from Cusco’s classic stone and stucco churches to Lima’s grand manors.
At Hello Peru Tours, we offer the best tours to many of Peru’s historical colonial. Our experienced guide will help you explore the wonderful mix of ancient cultures and European influences found in colonial architecture.
So, contact us right now to reserve your spot! That said, let’s dive in!
Our guided tour will show you all the sites at your own pace and offer an informative background into each building’s colonial history. The tour includes visiting these ancient places. But you can always contact us to customize the tour.
1. Casa Aliaga Lima
2. Iglesia De Santo Domingo Lima
3. Plaza Dearmas Ayacucho
4. Palacio Del Gobierno, Lima
5. Iglesia De Compania De Jesus Cusco
6. The Basilica Cathedral Arequipa
7. Monasterio De Santa Catalina, Arequipa
8. Plaza De Armas De Cajamarca
9. Qoricancha Sun Temple
These colonial buildings are testaments to Peru’s architectural heritage, offering visitors a glimpse into its breath past.
Built-in 1535, Casa Aliaga is recognized as one of the oldest colonial houses in the Americas. Located in Lima, this mansion has been inhabited by the same family for over 17 generations. Its remarkable architecture and well-preserved interior make it a must-visit destination.
Casa Aliaga is a stunning example of colonial architecture in Lima, Peru. The mansion’s interior features fully furnished rooms, galleries, and courtyards adorned with antique furniture and artwork.
The Church of Santo Domingo, located in Cusco, mesmerizes visitors with its intricate baroque architecture. This colonial marvel was built on the foundations of the Inca temple of Inti, highlighting the blending of cultures during the Spanish conquest.
An exquisite example of baroque architecture, Iglesia De Santo Domingo in Lima is a must-see for any traveler. Its intricate façade is marked by majestic staircases and an impressive main dome, showcasing the grandeur of colonial churches in the country.
Inside the church with our guide, you will glimpse the traditional altars and chapels built during the Spanish conquest. And you’ll also find the remains of the Inca temple of Inti found at the base of the church.
The Plaza de Armas in Ayacucho is a historical and cultural center surrounded by remarkable colonial buildings. The plaza’s significance dates back to the Spanish colonial period when it served as the city’s heart.
The colonial architecture around the plaza, with its charming balconies and elegant facades, creates a picturesque scene that transports you to a bygone era. The plaza is also home to several monuments, including the Monumento a la Libertad de Ayacucho.
The Palacio del Gobierno, also known as the Government Palace, is an iconic colonial building in Lima’s Plaza de Armas. This grand structure serves as the official residence of the President of Peru.
The palace’s interior showcases frescoes, murals, and sculptures that depict Peru’s independence. The style of Palacio Del reflects a mix of Spanish and neoclassical influences, making it an impressive representation of the colonial-era design in Peru.
The Iglesia de la Compañía de Jesús (Church of the Society of Jesus) in Cusco is a remarkable example of colonial religious architecture. Its ornate baroque façade, carved from volcanic stone, captivates visitors with its intricate details and sculptures.
The church’s interior is adorned with exquisite frescoes and gilded altars, creating a breathtaking visual experience. Also, the bell tower symbolizes Cusco’s rich cultural history.
The Basilica Cathedral in Arequipa is an awe-inspiring colonial structure that dominates the city’s skyline. This cathedral is built from the region’s distinctive white volcanic stone, known as sillar, showcases a blend of Spanish Gothic and mestizo baroque architectural styles.
The intricate facades, soaring towers, and ornate interior of The Basilica Cathedral make it one of Peru’s most impressive religious buildings.
The Monasterio de Santa Catalina in Arequipa is a captivating colonial complex that offers a glimpse into nuns’ lives during the colonial period.
This vast monastery, covering an area of nearly 20,000 square meters, features a maze of colorful streets, tranquil courtyards, and beautifully adorned rooms.
The architectural style uniquely blends Spanish and Andean influences, creating a mesmerizing and peaceful sanctuary.
The Plaza de Armas in Cajamarca is a historic square that showcases several stunning colonial buildings. Surrounded by ornate balconies and arcades, the plaza exudes a charm that takes you back in time.
The Plaza de Armas in Cajamarca is also home to several other colonial-era monuments, such as the Alpaca Monument and the Monument to the Heroes of Cajamarca. These monuments are a remarkable testament to the city’s rich colonial past.
Along with the impressive architecture of the plaza, it’s a popular spot for activities like folk art performances and cultural events.
The Qoricancha Sun Temple in Cusco is one of Peru’s most beautiful colonial buildings. It’s a testament to the impressive architectural achievements of the Inca Empire as well as the subsequent influence of Spanish colonialism.
This sacred site was once adorned with gold and precious stones and was considered the most important temple of the Inca civilization.
And today, you can marvel at the remains of the original Inca stonework, combined with the Spanish colonial additions that transformed the temple into a church.
La Catedral, also known as the Cathedral Basilica of the Assumption of the Virgin, is a magnificent colonial building in Cusco’s Plaza de Armas. Constructed on the foundations of an ancient Inca temple, it showcases a blend of Renaissance, Gothic, and Baroque styles.
The cathedral’s intricate carvings, vibrant paintings from the Cusco School, and the remarkable Chapel of the Holy Family make it a must-see destination. La Catedral is a symbol of cultural fusion and religious significance in Cusco.
At the heart of Lima lies the Cathedral of Lima, an architectural masterpiece dating back to the 16th century. Its grand façade and intricate interior design, featuring beautiful stained glass windows and ornate altars, showcase the fusion of Spanish and indigenous artistry.
The Cathedral of Lima is a must-visit for any traveler. Its interior is decorated with ornate and intricate details, including a series of carved wooden stalls in the choir area, a part of the original 16th-century design.
The main altar is an impressive work of art decorated with gold and precious stones. Visitors can admire the marvelous ceiling with striking frescoes on the upper level. It’s truly an awe-inspiring example of colonial architecture in Peru.
The Monastery of San Francisco, situated in Lima’s historic center, is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Its impressive complex encompasses a stunning church, a library with ancient texts, and eerie catacombs. The exquisite baroque architecture is a sight to behold.
The grand façade, ornate sculptures and intricate details, is a sight to behold. Inside, visitors are captivated by the magnificent baroque artistry and exquisite ceiling frescoes.
In the heart of Lima’s Plaza de Armas stands the Archbishop’s Palace, an elegant colonial building that houses the archbishop’s residence. The stunning balconies carved wooden doors, and interior courtyards reflect the power and influence of the Catholic Church
The building has three levels and several impressive patios and gardens. The interior offers antiques, paintings, sculptures, and a chapel and library with ancient texts.
The Archbishop’s Palace is a stunning example of colonial-era architecture and design, making its position among the best colonial buildings in Peru.
The Church of La Merced in Arequipa is renowned for its magnificent baroque façade, adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures. It’s also known as Basilica and Convent of Nuestra Señora de la Merced and Iglesia y Convento La Merced.
The Church of La Merced is a stunning example of Spanish Colonial architecture in Peru with intricate baroque façade and carvings. The dazzling white volcanic stone used in the construction adds to its allure.
Also situated in Trujillo, Casa Goyeneche captivates with its exquisite architectural details. The intricate stone carvings and ornate balconies are a testament to the craftsmanship of the time.
Visiting this ancient house is like stepping back in time to witness the splendor of colonial Trujillo. The main hall is a magnificent gallery of art and sculptures, while the lush gardens add to its beauty. All these features make it one of Peru’s top colonial buildings.
Let us answer some of Peru’s most frequently asked questions about colonial buildings
The buildings in Peru reflect its history and cultural heritage, making them a captivating sight to explore. Peru has a diverse architecture, influenced by ancient Inca structures, colonial-era buildings, and European styles like Baroque and Neoclassical.
One prominent historical architectural feature in Peru is the incredible stone masonry in many ancient Inca structures. The precision and craftsmanship displayed on their walls, such as those at Machu Picchu, are awe-inspiring. These structures stand as a testament to the engineering prowess of the Inca civilization
Peruvian buildings showcase a fascinating blend of colonial architectural styles and the impressive structures of the ancient Incas. Peru’s architecture is rich and diverse. And it has European influences like Baroque and neoclassical styles as well.
