Overview:

: The Monastery of Santo Domingo in Lima, is a historic monastery founded in 1535 by Dominican friar Tomas de San Martin. Located in the Historic Centre of Lima, it is the most famous religious building of colonial Lima, and its red brick towers are a local icon. The site is made up of three interconnected structures: the Church of Santo Domingo, the convent, and the chapel of the sepulcher, all built between 1535 and 1610. The church also houses some notable paintings, including one by José Camarón depicting Saint Dominic, the founder of the Dominican Order. The convent also includes a library of ancient manuscripts. The Monastery is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is one of the most beautiful monuments in Peru
Prominent Features:

1. Located in the historic center of Lima, the Monastery of Santo Domingo is a prime example of Spanish colonial architecture in Peru. 2. Built in the late 16th century by indigenous and European artisans, the immense stone structure is home to both an active monastery as well as a museum. 3. It houses several historical artifacts, including artwork, furniture, pottery, religious artwork and irreplaceable archives. 4. Additionally, the complex includes a sanctuary, two cloisters, and an extensive library. 5. The monastery also features a colorful courtyard, large bell tower, and a spacious chapel with gorgeous wooden ceiling, marble columns and ornate altars. 6. One of the most notable features of the complex is its eight chapels, each devoted to a saint, as well as its serene gardens and fountains. 7. Open to the public since 1820, the monastery has an active role in Lima’s spiritual and cultural life. 8. It is a popular destination for local families and religious pilgrims alike, hosting various Catholic processions and events throughout the year. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Peru.

History:

The Monastery of Santo Domingo, located in Lima, Peru, is one of the oldest structures in the city. The first monastery was built in 1551 under orders of Francisco Pizarro—the first Spanish governor of Peru—to honor the Roman Catholic saint, Santo Domingo de Guzman. The monastery was originally built in the Baroque style of architecture which was popular during the colonial period in Peru. In 1571, the monastery was destroyed by an earthquake and was subsequently restored and rebuilt in 1580 to its original design and layout. It was then that the monastery was used as a center of worship for the Catholic Church and as a center of education and training. The monastery also functioned as a refuge for priests, a place of prayer, and a center of social life. Throughout the colonial period, the monastery was an important cultural center in Lima, with many of its residents taking part in the Spanish culture and tradition. However, in 1821, following Peru's independence, the monastery was seized by the Peruvian government and its lands were distributed to the citizens of Lima. In 1974, the monastery was declared a national monument, and since then, the government of Peru and the religious group, the "Dominicans", have been in charge of the restoration and preservation of the monastery. Currently, the monastery is open for the public and is a major tourist attraction in Lima. Visit one of the famous monuments of Peru with your friends and family.

Interesting facts:

1. The Monastery of Santo Domingo is a grand 17th-century Baroque style complex located in downtown Lima, Peru. It is considered to be one of Peru’s most important architectural landmarks. 2. It was built between 1651 and 1673 with contributions from the Spanish crown and community donations. 3. It is dedicated to the Dominican Order’s holy martyr St. Dominic who founded the Order of Preachers in 1206. 4. The complex is composed of three different churches, cloisters, living quarters, a library, and a large museum. 5. The museum is home to some of Peru’s most important religious art, artifacts, and manuscripts - including ancient paintings, sculptures, and illuminated manuscripts. 6. The monastery also houses the important Lima Cathedral which was built between 1535 and 1650. 7. For many years the monastery served as the residence of Peruvian archbishops. 8. The Church of the Miracles is one of the most distinctive structures within the complex. It is richly decorated with red and black marbles, gilded wood, and luxury fabrics. 9. The church was designed and commissioned by the Spanish Viceroy in 1710 for the soul of his young illegitimate daughter, Doña Teresa. 10. In 1965, The Monastery of Santo Domingo was declared a national cultural and historical landmark by the Peruvian government. One of the historical monuments of Peru, it tells the story of a bygone era