All religion museums to visit in Peru

Explore the diverse world of religious beliefs and practices at 27 religion museums in Peru. These museums offer insights into various faiths and their cultural significance.

Are you interested in the history and impact of religion? These are the top religion museums in Peru:

  1. Basílica and Convent of San Francisco, Lima1

    Basílica and Convent of San Francisco, Lima

     Lima
    The Basilica San Francisco is a Franciscan monastery church that is situated in the historic center of Lima, the capital of Peru. This church is part of the Archdiocese of Lima and holds the title of a Basilica minor. It is part of the Franciscan monastery, which includes two other churches. The Basilica San Francisco is a significant historical and religious site that offers a glimpse into the rich history and culture of Lima.
  2. Qoricancha Site Museum2

    Qoricancha Site Museum

     Cusco
    The Temple of the Sun, also known as Coricancha, Qorikancha, or Qoricancha, was the most sacred site in the Inca Empire. It is located in Cusco, a city that was the center of the Inca Empire. This site was of great importance to the Incas and was the location of significant ceremonies such as marriages, coronations, and funerals. The mummies of the Inca rulers were also kept here, seated on golden thrones.
  3. Basilica and Convent of Santo Domingo, Lima3

    Basilica and Convent of Santo Domingo, Lima

     Lima
    The three-nave church and monastery with rich facade embellishments and a huge dome is simply unmissable. Note the typical Sevillian tiles.
  4. Archbishop's Palace of Lima4

    Archbishop's Palace of Lima

     Lima
    The current Archbishop's Palace of Lima, opened on December 8, 1924, is a prime example of neo-colonial architecture that developed in Lima during the early twentieth century. Its unique architectural style and historical significance make it a point of interest for tourists interested in architecture and history.
  5. Torre Tagle Palace5

    Torre Tagle Palace

     Lima
    The facade of the Palacio de Torre Tagle is a remarkable example of Andalusian Baroque style. It features carved stone porticos and arches, and two artistic Mudéjar wooden balconies made of cedar and mahogany. The balconies, which are completely closed with blinds with slats, reflect the transition from the Andalusian Mudéjar style to the Hispanic-American Baroque. The windows in the lower part of the house are simple and with wrought iron bars, providing a contrast to the ornate style of the balconies.
  6. Santa Catalina Monastery Museum6

    Santa Catalina Monastery Museum

     Arequipa
    The Santa Catalina Monastery, also known as Convento de Santa Catalina, is a religious tourist complex situated in the historic center of Arequipa, Peru. This monastery was founded on September 10, 1579, and is renowned for its natural beauty and welcoming climate. The architecture of the monastery is unique, constructed from sillar, a white volcanic rock from the Chachani volcano, and pink sillar from the Misti volcano, the latter being a symbol of the city. Despite being located in the heart of the city, the monastery is completely isolated, surrounded by a solid 4-meter high wall.
  7. Inka Museum7

    Inka Museum

     Cusco
    El Museo Inka, located in the city of Cusco, Peru, is a university museum that offers a unique insight into the rich history and culture of the region. It is an ideal destination for those interested in learning more about the Inca civilization and the historical significance of Cusco.
  8. Basilica Cathedral of Arequipa8

    Basilica Cathedral of Arequipa

     Arequipa
    The Basilica Cathedral of Arequipa, also known as La Catedral de Arequipa, is a significant religious monument dating back to the 17th century. It is one of the earliest of its kind in the city of Arequipa, making it a site of historical and architectural interest.
  9. Site Museum and Archaeological Sanctuary of Pachacamac9

    Site Museum and Archaeological Sanctuary of Pachacamac

     Lurín
    The Pachacamac archaeological site, situated approximately 30 km from Lima, Peru, is a significant historical location that showcases ruins from different eras, ranging from the Lima civilization (200-600 AD) to the Incas (1450-1530). This site provides a unique opportunity for tourists to explore and understand the rich history and culture of these ancient civilizations.
  10. Leymebamba Museum10

    Leymebamba Museum

     Dos de Mayo
    The Leymebamba Museum is an archaeological museum situated at an altitude of 2,400 meters above the small town of Leymebamba, in the Amazonas department of Peru. This location offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the rich history of the region while enjoying the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
  11. Huaca Pucllana Site Museum11

    Huaca Pucllana Site Museum

     Miraflores
    Huaca Pucllana, also known as Huaca Juliana, is a prominent adobe and clay pyramid situated in the Miraflores district of central Lima, Peru. The structure is built from seven staggered platforms, making it a unique architectural marvel.
  12. Andean Sanctuaries Museum12

    Andean Sanctuaries Museum

     Arequipa
    The Andean Sanctuaries Museum, also known as Museo Santuarios Andinos, is an archaeological museum located in Arequipa, Peru. It was established in 1996 with the primary aim of conserving the archaeological artifacts from the High Sanctuaries of the South Andean project. This project was initiated in 1980 by archaeologists José Chavéz and Johan Reinhard in the southern mountains of Peru.
  13. Museo Histórico Regional del Cuzco13

    Museo Histórico Regional del Cuzco

     Cusco
    The Museo Histórico Regional de Cusco is situated in the city of Cusco, within the department of Cusco, Peru. This location is easily accessible for tourists visiting the city and offers a rich historical experience.
  14. Museum of the Inquisition and Congress14

    Museum of the Inquisition and Congress

     Lima
    The Museum of the Inquisition and Congress is situated in Lima, the capital city of Peru. It is conveniently located on Junín Street, in close proximity to Bolívar Square. This location is easily accessible and is surrounded by other historical and cultural sites, making it a great addition to any itinerary.
  15. Plaza San Francisco15

    Plaza San Francisco

     Arequipa
    A major church complex from the 16th century with a library and museum filled with excellent colonial paintings and Catholic ornaments.
  16. 16

    San Francisco Church and Monastery

     Cusco
    This church was built in 16th century and didn´t have to be rebuilt after earthquakes. There is a museum with the largest painting in Peru.
  17. Panteón de los Próceres17

    Panteón de los Próceres

     Lima
    The Panteón de los Próceres, located within the old Church of the Real Convictorio de San Carlos, is a crypt that houses the remains of the heroes of the Peruvian War of Independence. This historical site offers visitors a unique opportunity to pay respects to the individuals who played a significant role in Peru's fight for independence.
  18. 18

    Museum Santa Catalina Monastery

     Cusco
    Founded in 1610, this old monastery presents a beautiful architecture combined with painted arches and wall paintings. There is also a museum.
  19. Museum of the Nation19

    Museum of the Nation

     San Borja
    The Museum of the Nation was home to an extensive collection of over 12,500 pre-Hispanic pieces. These included collections of ceramics, metals, and textiles from various cultures such as Paracas, Moche, Wari, and Lima. In addition, the museum also housed more than 2,500 historical pieces of art from the colonial and republican era, providing a comprehensive view of Peru's rich cultural heritage.
  20. Monumento Arqueológico de Willkawain20

    Monumento Arqueológico de Willkawain

     Independencia
    Willkawain is situated approximately 6 km northeast of Huaraz, at the foot of the Cordillera Blanca mountain range, which lies further to the east. The locality is at an altitude of 3350 m, providing breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
  21. 21

    Museo La Recoleta

     Yanahuara
    A monastery from the 17th century, now a museum displaying mummies, masks, various objects from missionary travels and a huge library.
  22. Huaca Esmeralda22

    Huaca Esmeralda

     Trujillo
    Huaca La Esmeralda is an archaeological site that is part of the Chimú Culture. It is situated in the city of Trujillo, Peru. This site provides a unique opportunity for tourists to explore the rich history and culture of the Chimú people.
  23. Cementerio Presbítero Matías Maestro23

    Cementerio Presbítero Matías Maestro

     El Agustino
    The Presbítero Matías Maestro Cemetery Museum, also commonly known as the General Cemetery of Lima, is a historical monument situated in the Barrios Altos neighborhood of Lima, the capital of Peru. This cemetery holds significant historical value and is a notable landmark in the city.
  24. Monastery of Santa Teresa24

    Monastery of Santa Teresa

     Arequipa
    The Monastery of Santa Teresa in Arequipa, also known as the Monastery of Carmelitas Descalzas de San José y Santa Teresa, is a significant religious complex. It is home to a community of cloistered Discalced Carmelites nuns and also houses the Virceroyalty Art Museum of Santa Teresa. This combination of religious and cultural significance makes it a unique destination for visitors.
  25. Museum of Religious Art25

    Museum of Religious Art

     Cusco
    The Museum of Religious Art of the Archbishop's Palace in Cusco is home to the most comprehensive collection of viceregal religious art from the Cusco School, a style that flourished primarily in the 17th and 18th centuries. This collection provides a unique insight into the fusion of indigenous and Spanish artistic traditions during the colonial period.
  26. Caral26

    Caral

     Caral
    Caral, situated in Peru, is recognized as the oldest known city settlement on the American continent. It is located approximately 200 km north of Lima and 25 km inland from the Pacific coast in the valley of the mostly dried up Río Supe. This ancient city offers a unique opportunity for tourists to explore the roots of civilization in the Americas.
  27. 27

    Museum Lord of Miracles

     Lima
    The Museum Lord of Miracles is a unique institution dedicated to the devotion of the Lord of Miracles, a significant religious figure painted in 1651 by an Angolan slave. This historical and cultural context provides a deep insight into the religious and social history of Peru, making it a fascinating destination for tourists interested in history, culture, and religion.