Overview:

Iglesia de la Compañía de Jesús is a Roman Catholic Church located in the city of Cusco, Peru. It is also known as the Church of the Jesuits. It is the oldest surviving Jesuit church in South America and the second oldest in the world after the Church of the Gesù in Rome. The church was constructed between 1576 and 1668 and is a prime example of the influence of the Jesuit Baroque style in the religious architecture of Peru. The church's richly decorated facade and interior are adorned with numerous sculptures, frescoes, paintings, and intricate stonework. The main altar is a masterpiece of Peruvian Baroque style, while the main side altars are also notable works of art. The church is also the repository of numerous works of art from different eras, such as the monumental sculpted retablo depicting the 16th century Incan rebel leader, Túpac Amaru II. It is one of the most beautiful monuments in Peru
Prominent Features:

1. Gothic Architecture: The Iglesia de la Compañía de Jesús is an impressive example of gothic architecture in Peru. Built in the 17th century by the Spanish and completely remodeled in the 19th century, the church's gothic style is evident in its pointed arches and ornate columns. Seen from the outside, the church has colorful tile roofs, giving it a unique look. 2. Large Domed Towers: The church boasts two large domed towers that stand at more than 100 feet in height. These towers are further adorned with elegant stonework, and at night, the brightly lit stonework can be seen from miles away. 3. Interior Design: Inside, the church is elaborately decorated with detailed artwork, including gold-leaf accents and religious scenes painted on the walls. These interior elements include colorful frescos, paintings, and sculptures, adding an aesthetic beauty to the church's already impressive structure. 4. Historic Significance: Though primarily used as a Catholic Church, the Iglesia de la Compañía de Jesús has become a symbol of Cusco's importance in Peru's history. It is also linked to the beginnings of the nation's independence from Spain in 1821. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Peru.

History:

The Iglesia de la Compañía de Jesús, commonly known as La Compañía, is a Jesuit church in the historic city of Cusco in Peru. The church was founded in 1576 by the Spanish Jesuit priest Juan de Esquivel y Lora. The church served as a Jesuit college and seminary until the Jesuits were expelled from Peru in 1767. The church was built in the baroque style and is noted for its intricately decorated facade and lavish interior. Like other Jesuit churches, La Compañía combines Christian and Inca elements. Its double facade is made from carefully carved grey stone and is filled with intricate friezes and reliefs. Inside, the ceiling is adorned with ornate woodwork and gold-leaf decoration. While the Jesuit education of natives was curtailed in the late 18th century, the church of La Compañía remains an important Cusco landmark, and has been declared a Cultural Property of Global Value by the government of Peru. The church continues to be used for religious services, and is open to the public for viewing. Visit one of the famous monuments of Peru with your friends and family.

Interesting facts:

1. Iglesia de la Compañía de Jesús is one of the most significant religious buildings in the city of Cusco. 2. Built between 1650 and 1668 in the Baroque style, it was an attempt to replicate the style of the Cathedral of Sevilla in Spain. 3. Iglesia de la Compañía de Jesús has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983. 4. The interior of the church is decorated with baroque altars, paintings and sculptures. 5. The church is home to some of Cusco’s most valuable religious art, including a 17th century altarpiece with a depiction of the Last Supper. 6. The exterior features buttresses meant to strengthen the structure against earthquakes. 7. The church is situated in C orto del Carmen, one of Cusco’s oldest plazas. 8. The plaza is home to two other impressive Baroque buildings, the church of San Blas and Casa Solar. One of the historical monuments of Peru, it tells the story of a bygone era