The Basilica and Convent of San Francisco is one of the most visited sights in Lima's historic centre, and the reason is underneath it. The Franciscans began building the convent in 1546, and beneath it lies a network of crypts used as a burial place through almost the whole Spanish colonial era, until 1810. Wikipedia reports that around 25,000 bodies were held there when burials ended. The bones are stacked in circular pits and neat arrangements, and the experience is eerie but quietly fascinating. Above ground, the monastery adds tiled cloisters, a library, religious paintings and a richly decorated church, so a visit works as both an art and a history stop. The site reopened as a museum in 1950, and the San Francisco complex was part of the UNESCO listing of Lima. Tiqets sells entry as a Lima walking tour that includes the monastery, which is how most visitors get a guide and a reserved time.
Why it matters: the catacombs were built to support the convent in the event of an earthquake, and later served as a cemetery until the cemetery was closed after independence. Today they are one of the clearest windows into everyday colonial life and death, and the monastery above holds some of the city's best religious art.
How to see it: the visit is by guided tour, which moves through the church, the cloisters and the library before descending into the crypts. Booking a tour in advance gives you a time slot and a guide who explains the history. Photography rules inside can change, so follow the guide's instructions. Combine it with the Plaza Mayor and a walk through the centre for a satisfying half day.
Good to know: the crypts are cool and a little damp, and the passages are narrow, so wear comfortable shoes and a light layer. It is not suited to those with mobility difficulties because of steps. Hours and tour times vary by day, so check the listing for your date. Children who like spooky places often enjoy it, but very young ones may find it unsettling.
What to expect
The experience
A guided tour through the church, cloisters and library of the convent, ending in the catacomb crypts.
Best time
Book a morning or early afternoon slot, and avoid the busiest midday coach arrivals if you can.
How long
About one to two hours for the visit, plus time to walk the Plaza Mayor nearby.
Tips
Wear comfortable shoes and a light layer, expect low light and steps, and follow the guide on photography.
Quick picks
- Best for
- History fans and anyone who wants one standout, slightly macabre stop in the centre.
- Families
- Older children often love it, though younger ones may find the bones unsettling and the steps tiring.
- Couples
- A memorable shared experience before a long lunch in the centre or an evening in Barranco.
- Pair with
- The Historic Centre walk, Larco Museum and a food tour.
- Time needed
- Allow one to two hours.
Good questions
What are the Lima catacombs?+
They are crypts beneath the San Francisco Convent that were used as a burial place through the colonial period until 1810. Thousands of bones are arranged in circular pits and passages.
How do I buy tickets?+
Tiqets sells entry as a Lima walking tour that includes the San Francisco Monastery, with the listing showing daily availability. Pick a date and time slot when you book.
Is it suitable for children?+
It is generally fine for older children who enjoy history, but the bones and low light can unsettle younger ones. Steps and narrow passages also make strollers impractical.
Can I take photos inside?+
Photography rules in the crypts and church can change, so follow your guide's instructions. Flash is often restricted.
Is it far from the Plaza Mayor?+
No, the convent is a short walk from the Plaza Mayor in the historic centre. It pairs easily with a visit to the cathedral.
