Culture Vulture

San Francisco Convent

A warning for guests at the hostel reception

Lima has grown on me somewhat. It is probably much better in the Summer, but the Winter grey sky and early morning drizzle does not make it look good. Part of the problem is that I have been getting out early in the morning when all the buildings are shuttered, it is drizzling, and everything looks shabby. Later on in the day the streets are unrecognizable as the buildings open up their huge shutters and wooden doors to reveal shops, cafes, business, banks, colleges and beautiful old colonial courtyards. The evening is even better as everyone is out on the streets and everything is open late. It gets dark at 6pm so the lighting of the streets and buildings gives everything a warm glow.

I visited some wonderful museums and the San Francisco Convent next door to my hostel. The Convent was full of dark carved wood, murals, paintings and it had the most beautiful library that is over 400 years old. It was such a thrill to see not only Inca treasures in the museums, but also examples of traditional crafts that are still practiced. One museum also had artefacts from the colonial era, which were equally beautifully made.

It was very fortunate that as I am came out of a museum there was a parade in the street. The costumes, dancing and music were wonderful.

San Francisco Convent Library

Traditional gourd carving

Inca ear plugs

18th century silverware

Parade

Museum in old mansion

Plaza Des Armas

My hostel

My hostel