Iglesia de San Francisco

Iglesia de San Francisco Review

This 16th-century church has survived numerous natural disasters, including several earthquakes that cracked its cupola. Inside, near the polished silver altar, is the little chapel of the Sorrowful Virgin, where the all-important Virgin Mary statue is stored. On December 8, during Arequipa's Feast of the Immaculate Conception, the Virgin is paraded around the city all night atop an ornate carriage and surrounded by images of saints and angels. A throng of pilgrims carry flowers and candles. Visit the adjoining convent (S/5) to see Arequipa's largest painting and a museum of 17th-century religious furniture and paintings.