Museum of Religious Art, Cusco

The Museum of Religious Art in Cusco offers a profound glimpse into the rich colonial history of the region, housed within the walls of the archiepiscopal palace—originally the palace of Inca Roca. This museum, built on the foundations of an ancient Inca palace, integrates a significant historical transition from Inca to Spanish colonial architecture, evident in its baroque decor enriched with stone structures from the Inca period. The museum's architecture features mullioned balconies, columns, windows, patios, sinks, and arches, all beautifully decorated in the Baroque style.

Inside, the museum hosts an extensive collection of colonial artifacts, including over 200 paintings, sculptures, altarpieces, cedar furniture, and religious items made from gold and silver. Noteworthy pieces include prominent paintings like 'Christ Crucified' and 'The Virgin of Milk.' These artifacts reflect the opulent baroque style prevalent during the colonial era, characterized by luxurious ornaments.

The museum's thematic rooms, such as the 'Sala Corpus Christi,' the 'Chapel of the church,' and the 'Golden Room,' each tell a part of the religious and artistic history of Cusco. The 'Diego Quispe Tito' room is particularly significant; it displays 12 canvases by Quispe Tito, a notable figure from the 'Cusco School' of Art, which was donated by the parish of Santa Ana. The 'Golden Hall' and the chapel within the museum also stand out, showcasing a gold-leaf-adorned baroque altarpiece donated by the seminary of San Antonio de Abad.

The Museum of Religious Art is an essential visit for those interested in the religious and colonial history of Peru. It provides insights into the blend of cultures and the artistic evolution from the pre-Inca era to modern times.