This lovely basilica, nearly half a millennium old, pays tribute to the city’s protector with its ornate facade and its great stone arcades.
Head a couple of blocks southwest from Plaza Mayor and you’ll reach La Merced Church, a lovely basilica with origins in the 16th century. Stay a while to appreciate this church’s appealing facade, its stunning baroque design and its impressive collection of colonial artwork.
The basilica was originally built in 1541 on land which is said to have once belonged to the Mercedian Order, a convent that dedicated itself to paying the ransom for Christians that were being held captive. Originally made from wood, the structure has been rebuilt a number of times, particularly in the wake of various fires and earthquakes. A particularly noteworthy renovation took place in the late 18th century.
Now La Merced Church stands in the historical centre of Lima as a fine example of baroque design. Its great stone arcades and interior columns are testimony to the grandeur of its architects’ vision.
Head inside the church and investigate the works of art that explain the life story of Fray Miguel de Orenes, the basilica’s founder. Look in the nave of the Epistle for the plaque that marks the founder’s final resting place. In the centre of church stands a statue of Our Lady of Mercy, in whose honour the basilica is named (full title: La Basilica Menor y Convento de Nuestra Señora de la Merced, or Basilica and Convent of Our Lady of Mercy). Find this statue and pay respect to the alleged protector of the city of Lima.
Linger a while in the spacious plaza in front of the church and admire the church’s ornate façade. The main entrance, carved towards the end of the 16th century, is very photogenic. Look out for the Cross of Padre Urraca, which is dedicated to a man who was believed at the time to be a miracle worker.
La Merced Church is located in historical central Lima, just a few blocks away from the Government Palace and the Lima Cathedral. The church is right next to the Estación Jirón de la Union bus stop, and walking distance from the now-defunct riverside Desamparados Station.
