Lima Cathedral

Magnificent. There are many crypts (we had to crawl in to see them). A big museum with gorgeous bishops vestments with gold thread from the 17th century, so many massive paintings, very elaborate nativity scenes ( apparently the artists envisioned the Holy Family in more than a humble inn/manager), beautiful monstrances, and other gorgeous figures and art.

Francisco Pizarro is buried in the largest, fanciest crypt/altar area when you first come in. From what our tour guide said, the Peruvians credit him with many of the beautiful buildings in Lima.

Underneath the altar were crypts we could walk through (nice, open, white and well-let). I think it was archbishops, and maybe also wealthy families. The were a couple that died in the past 10-20 years. Also we could see baby coffins, and a display of femurs and skulls behind glass.

I loved the feel of this place...not old and gloomy. Our guide told us most Catholics in Peru attend weekly Mass. In almost every church we were in on Friday at random times during the day there was Mass going on!Read more