Elegant 17th-century architecture and a wonderful collection of colonial artwork make the Trujillo Cathedral (Catedral de Trujillo) one of the city’s must-see attractions. The church dominates the north side of the Plaza de Armas, the main square and heart of Trujillo’s historic centre.
Spend a few moments in the cathedral’s courtyard looking over the graceful burnt-yellow façade. Admire the domed bell towers and note the sculpture of Christ above the main entrance.
Step inside the grand building to appreciate its collection of religious art and ornate decorations. Examine the colonial-era canvas paintings, which adorn the cathedral’s arched niches. They include The Triumph of the Eucharist, which depicts scenes of Heaven, Earth and Hell and Santo Toribio de Mogrovejo. In this picture, Santa Rosa of Lima is receiving the Sacrament of Confirmation.
Marvel at the stunning Baroque central altarpiece, a magnificent wood carving with twisting columns and sculptures of Christ and an assortment of saints. See the church’s other altarpieces, including the Crucified Christ of Souls and San Jose and the Sacred Family. The Catedral de Trujillo also has a fine collection of silverware, with pieces that date back to the beginning of the 18th century.
Visit the museum inside the cathedral to see wood carvings and more paintings of the colonial period, including The Denial of St. Peter and a portrait of John the Baptist.
The cathedral is open daily and admission is free. Although, bear in mind that it closes for several hours from midday. The building is also an active place of worship and so visitors are reminded to dress appropriately. After your sightseeing tour, take advantage of your location on Plaza de Armas to see the array of colourful colonial architecture that surrounds this tree-lined square.
Do make a point of coming back to the square at night to view the cathedral building illuminated by bright white lights. It is a spectacular sight.
