Church of Belén

The Church of Belén is a colonial church building located at Belen Square, marked by a large stone facade and several side chapels. The interior arranges its spaces around a central nave with carefully proportioned chapels lining both sides.

The building was founded in 1553 as part of a college complex and was reconstructed around 1680 following a major fire in 1671. This reconstruction shaped it into the form that stands today.

The altars and walls display religious art that blends Spanish motifs with Andean symbols in a single visual language. This mix tells the story of how two very different traditions came together in one building.

The church sits on a public square with easy access and is open for visitors during certain times of the day. You can view it from outside or step inside to explore the interior when it is open.

The stones used in the facade come from local quarries and have a distinctive reddish-brown color that sets the building apart. This material makes every surface a direct expression of what the land around Cusco offers to those who build upon it.

Location: Cusco Department

Location: Cusco Province

Location: Santiago District

GPS coordinates: -13.52696,-71.98123

Latest update: December 9, 2025 12:25