In Cusco’s South Valley, three nearby churches tell different stories through their painted walls. In Andahuaylillas, two paths present a choice. In Huaro, Tadeo Escalante’s scenes turn the eye towards judgement and the fate of the soul. In Canincunca, the painted walls recall Andean textiles.
This guide covers the three rural stops on the Andean Baroque Route. The fourth church on the full route is La Compañía de Jesús, on Cusco’s Plaza de Armas.
Map of the three churches
From Cusco, start in Andahuaylillas, continue to Huaro and finish at Canincunca beside Urcos Lagoon. The line shows a reference road route. Select a numbered marker to locate each church.
Open the route in Google MapsThree details to look for
San Pedro Apóstol
Take a moment to look at the façade from the square. Once inside, turn towards the entrance wall and look for the painted paths to heaven and hell, attributed to Luis de Riaño. Compare the two paths before looking up at the decorated ceiling and taking in the rest of the interior.
What detail helps you tell the two paths apart?
San Juan Bautista
Tadeo Escalante’s murals depict the last things, including the Last Judgement. Choose one scene and follow a figure’s gesture or gaze. This gives you a way into a composition filled with figures.
Which gesture or figure helps you understand what is happening?
Chapel of the Purified Virgin
The chapel stands beside Urcos Lagoon. Inside, look for the geometric designs that resemble woven cloth. Notice the plant and animal motifs and see how they repeat across the wall.
What shape keeps returning, and how is it arranged?
Compare your three notes
Write down a choice in Andahuaylillas, a gesture in Huaro and a pattern in Canincunca. Then compare how each interior guides the eye: along a path, towards a figure or through a repeating shape.
Planning your visit
- Order. Follow the order on the map if you are leaving Cusco. Allow time to walk from your drop-off point to each church.
- Breaks. Start in the square at Andahuaylillas. At Canincunca, take a few minutes to see how the chapel sits beside the lagoon.
- Access and etiquette. Check access to the interiors before leaving. Follow staff instructions during services. Ask before taking photographs and avoid touching painted surfaces.
Download the observation sheet (PDF)
Read our guide to visiting Tipón, Pikillaqta and Andahuaylillas.
