Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Sights
Cajamarca's genial Plaza de Armas has a well-kept topiary garden with hedges trimmed
into the shape of llamas and other Andean animals. The fine central
fountain
dates from
1692 and commemorates the bicentenary of Columbus' landing in the Americas. Come
evening, the town's inhabitants congregate in the plaza to stroll and mull over the import-
ant events of the day - a popular pastime in this area of northern Peru.
Two churches face the plaza: the cathedral and the Iglesia de San Francisco. Both are
often imaginatively illuminated in the evenings, especially on weekends.
HISTORIC BUILDING
El Complejo de Belén
(adult/student S5/2; 9am-1pm & 3-6pm Tue-Sat, 9am-1pm Sun)
Construction of this
sprawling colonial complex, church and hospital of Belén, made entirely from volcanic
rock, occurred between 1627 and 1774. The hospital was run by nuns and 31 tiny, cell-
like bedrooms line the walls of the T-shaped building. The facade here has a fascinating
statue of a woman with four breasts - it was carved by local artisans and supposedly rep-
resents an affliction (supernumerary nipples, that is) commonly found in one of the nearby
towns.
The baroque church next door is one of Cajamarca's finest and has a prominent cupola
and a well-carved pulpit. Among several interesting wood carvings, one extremely tired-
looking Christ sits cross-legged on his throne, propping up his chin with a double-jointed
wrist and looking as though he could do with a pisco sour after a hard day's miracle work-
ing. Look out for the oversized cherubs supporting the elaborate centerpiece, which rep-
resents the weight of heaven. The outside walls of the church are lavishly decorated. The
tourist office is housed in one of the interior complex rooms.
