Iglesia+de+la+compania+de+Jesus

=Iglesia de la compania de Jesus=

Cuzco
Location: Plaza de Armas, Cuzco, Peru

Iglesia de la compania de Jesus or the Company of Jesus church or The Church of the Society of Jesus was built on the grounds of the ancient Incan palace of Huayna Capac, last Inca to rule. The church was built by Jesuits in 1571 and sustained heavy damage from a large earthquake in 1650 and was reconstructed, taking nearly two decades for completion and included many famous builders and architects. The Jesuits wanted and planned for the church to be the most magnificent of all of the Cuzco churches. Many argued that it could not surpass the splendor of the Cathedral and the Pope, Pope Paul III, was called in, and the decision was in favor of the Cathedral. By the time the news traveled back to Cuzco, the church was almost complete. It houses Peru’s largest altar with a soaring dome.

Iglesia de la compania de Jesus (Cuzco) is a prime example of Andean Baroque architecture It is very ornate, including soaring domes, and gold leaves adorning statues, columns, and altars. The most famous piece of art in the church is the painting of Martin de Loyola who married the great-niece of the Inca ruler Tupac Amaru. This painting depicts great detail and is a top tourist stop in the church. The inside does feel a bit gloomy, but the altar (gilded in gold) is stunning and is a focal point when lit up. A single hall leads to the golden altar, complete with decorated and wreathed columns, and features old images of the Virgin and other paintings and sculptures, including the Crucifixion.

Iglesia de la compania de Jesus (Cuzco) still stands today and continually undergoes renovations to maintain its splendor. It is open to the public and tours are offered by local students for a fee or donation. You can peruse the beautiful hallways and look upon the detailed paintings, or climb rickety stairs to the choir for a grand view. It is rated one of the best spots to visit in Cuzco, Peru.

By: Laura Reed