San Juan de Letran, Juli

San Juan de Letran is a Baroque church in Juli featuring a carved stone facade with elaborate ornamentation and decorative detailing. Inside, multiple wooden altarpieces are adorned with gold leaf, creating an ornate visual environment.

Construction started in 1570 under Dominican leadership but was later handed over to Jesuit administration. This transfer reflects changing religious authority during the Spanish colonial period.

The interior paintings show works from the Cusco School with religious scenes that blend European and indigenous artistic traditions together. You can see how two different worlds came together in the visual language of faith.

The church stands two blocks north of Plaza de Armas and welcomes visitors. Visiting during daylight hours and dressing respectfully will help you fully appreciate the religious space.

Several artworks inside come from Bernardo Bitti, an Italian Jesuit painter who greatly shaped colonial religious art. His pieces show a special connection between European painting traditions and local elements.

Location: Puno Department

Architectural style: Baroque

GPS coordinates: -16.21056,-69.45833

Latest update: December 13, 2025 17:07