Iglesia y Convento de la Merced - Museum Cusco - Peru

The Church and Convent of Mercy was originally built in 1535, making it one of the oldest religious institutions in South America, though it was rebuilt after an earthquake destroyed it 1654. It is still host to the white-robed Order of Mercy priesthood. The impressively designed courtyard and select rooms, all filled with centuries-old religious art (including a 16th century menorah), are open to the general public. The wall murals were originally reproductions of Catholic iconography from the order's home in Seville, Spain, and they include what may be considered a very controversial depiction of the Virgin Mary. This is essential touring in order to fully appreciate Cusco's colonial past.

Location:

Calle Manta 121

Museum Types:
Historical museum, Archaeology, Anthropology, ethnography, Art museum, Cultural, History, Art

Travel Tips:

Closed Noon - 2 p.m.

Price Description:

$2.50

Relative price: Budget

Open Hours from:8 a.m. to noon

Open Hours to:2-5 p.m.

Days Closed:Sunday

Travel Skills: None

Currencies accepted
Peruvian nuevo sol

Contact Information:
Phone: 231-821

About this Page

By Ricardo Segreda
Growing up in New York, Rick Segreda used to cut out of high school in order to hang out at the Museum of Modern Art and catch foreign-language...

Updated: 23 Mar 2012