Basílica and Convent of San Francisco, Lima

It was such an amazing experience being able to see the past of Peru and the fact that many people’s bones were there, made me wonder about everybody’s stories and backgrounds of every person here, very much recommend going. Tour guides were nice and spoke good English. We even saw a parade which was a nice experience.

Awesome museum to see? We had a private guide we met on the street. Since we had two young kids we didn't want to do the full group tour. She spoke English and was quick about letting us see everything. Worked out great and still got some history.

It is definitely worth a visit as this church, monastery and catacombs are very interesting. The visit is organized in a mandatory tour in English or Spanish and gives some insights into the history of this place. The entrance fee is 20 soles (09/2024).

The cost to enter the museum and catacombs is s/25 and a tour is compulsory. You can’t wander through alone and the tour group sizes are large. Photography is not allowed at the site. And the site is not in the condition it was when I first visited almost 20 years ago for free without a tour guide. Today it’s looking dirty and run down.

The Basílica and Convent of San Francisco in Lima is a historic gem, showcasing stunning colonial architecture and religious art. The intricate woodwork, ornate chapels, and catacombs beneath the church offer a fascinating glimpse into Peru's rich cultural heritage. Guided tours provide insightful narratives, enriching the experience. A must-visit for history enthusiasts and architecture buffs alike, it's a captivating journey through Lima's past and religious traditions.

The visit of the convent was interesting. Lots of great architecture, tiles, paintings and carvings. The best part of tour was the catacumbas that you see towards the end. Tours are in English or Spanish. Toilets available at the end. Pity that you're not allowed to visit on your own at your own pace. A big let down is that video and pictures are not allowed.

The Basílica and Convent of San Francisco is an absolute gem in Lima's historical landscape. Stepping into this architectural marvel feels like a step back in time, offering a glimpse into the city's vibrant past. The stunning basilica, with its ornate façade and intricate details, is a sight to behold. The blend of Baroque and Moorish influences is awe-inspiring. Inside, the beauty only deepens, with remarkable chapels adorned with stunning religious art, creating an atmosphere of serenity and wonder. The highlight, undoubtedly, is the catacombs. Exploring the subterranean tunnels and chambers is both eerie and fascinating. The bones arranged meticulously in patterns are a haunting yet powerful reminder of the past. The guided tours are informative and engaging, shedding light on the history and significance of this place. The guides' knowledge and passion truly enhance the experience. The library and museum add another layer of richness to the visit, showcasing priceless artifacts and historical manuscripts. However, due to the popularity of this site, it can get quite crowded, so visiting early in the day might offer a more tranquil experience. Overall, the Basílica and Convent of San Francisco is a must-visit for history enthusiasts, architecture admirers, and anyone seeking to delve into Lima's captivating past. A true testament to the city's rich cultural heritage.

Great building and includes a required tour - available in Spanish and English. Tour guide was great but meant we couldn’t dwell on rooms and areas of interest - but there’s a lot to see. Cloisters were beautiful and the crypts (not catacombs) were interesting too. Photography not permitted though judging by google photos that’s not universally observed. 20sols per person.