Overview:

The Cathedral of Trujillo in Peru is a magnificent example of Baroque architecture in the area. It is located in the Historic Centre of the city and opened its doors in 1771. The Church’s design is attributed to the renowned French architect François Godin de Lajarte, with the help of local indigenous craftsman. The construction process was extensive and took 44 years, due to scarce resources, it is still an incomplete Church. The Cathedral has a Latin cross plan and its façade is simple yet impressive. It has two towers and a central dome, surrounded by several chapels. Inside, you can find different paintings, sculptures and altarpieces such as the painting of Christ by Friar Blasillo de San Román, oils on canvas of San Isidoro, San Miguel and the Virgin of la Merced. Several significant celebrities are buried in this church such as Vice Admiral Thomas Cochrane, 10th Earl of Dundonald, who was also a former war hero of Peru during the fight for Peru’s independence. Today, the Cathedral of Trujillo is one of the most prominent churches in the city and an important cultural and touristic site. In addition, it is considered an important Cultural Heritage site in Peru, due to its exceptional beauty and historical importance. It is one of the most beautiful monuments in Peru
Prominent Features:

1. Built in 1535, the Cathedral of Trujillo is the oldest working cathedral in South America. 2. Characterized by a Baroque-style facade, the single-nave Gothic structure is one of the oldest structures of pre-Hispanic Spanish Colonial Architecure. 3. Located in the main square of Trujillo, Peru, the building is the pride of the city. 4. The cathedral displays a unique blend of Mudejar, Renaissance, Gothic and Baroque architectural styles. 5. Stunning interior features gilded altars, finely carved wooden pulpits, 19th century oil paintings of saints and murals depicting scenes from the life of Jesus. 6. Home to the tomb of Trujillo's founder Francisco Pizarro, which is a treasure of golden and silver coins. 7. The main entrance is guarded by two stone lions, another remarkable feature of the cathedral. 8. Also holds important religious artifacts, such as the processional cross of the 8th century, a silver sculpture of Our Lady of Peace and a 15th century painting of Jesus Christ. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Peru.

History:

The Cathedral of Trujillo was first constructed around 1540, when the city of Trujillo was founded. It was built by the Spanish and is the oldest in Peru. The present structure was completed in 1560 and is a typical example of colonial architecture. The original structure was severely damaged by an earthquake in 1619 but was quickly and expertly rebuilt. The cathedral's most significant asset is its massive tower, which is 95 feet tall. It is made from two sections with a large metal cross at the top. The tower is also adorned with eight bells used for calling the faithful to Mass. Below the tower is the choir loft, which includes an organ donated by King Charles III of Spain in 1783. Other notable features of the cathedral include the main altar, which was crafted from wood and decorated with gold aqua enamelling, as well as a pulpit and stalls. The stained glass windows were installed in the 19th century. The cathedral has undergone several modifications over the centuries, but its façade remains virtually unchanged. It is a beloved symbol of the city and a popular tourist attraction. The Cathedral of Trujillo is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit one of the famous monuments of Peru with your friends and family.

Interesting facts:

1. The Cathedral of Trujillo is one of Peru's oldest churches, having been established in 1534. 2. The Cathedral contains seven elaborate carved wooden altars, which were brought to Trujillo from Spain in the 19th century. 3. The Cathedral of Trujillo realized an important expansion in the early 19th century with the help of the French architect René de la Paz. 4. It was built using indigenous materials such as adobe and wood. 5. Inside the Cathedral is a large painting of the Madonna and Child which is believed to be of Spanish origin. 6. One of the more interesting features of the Cathedral is the “Tower of the Winds” - a bell tower built in the 18th century to give warning of approaching enemy attacks. 7. The Cathedral contains two of the oldest known organs in South America, which were made by the American organ builder, S. E. Yates. 8. A metal crucifix of large size, located in one of the front doors of the Cathedral was a gift from the King of Spain to the city of Trujillo. One of the historical monuments of Peru, it tells the story of a bygone era