10 Things to Do in El Carmen Church of San Judas, Chincha Alta, Peru
El Carmen Church of San Judas is a beautiful and historic church located in the town of Chincha Alta, Peru. This church is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, offering a variety of activities and attractions that will make your visit to Chincha Alta an unforgettable experience. From exploring its ancient architecture and learning about its history, to taking part in the traditional festivals and celebrations, here are 10 things to do in El Carmen Church of San Judas, Chincha Alta, Peru.
1. Marvel at the Ancient Architecture: El Carmen Church of San Judas was built in the 18th century and is considered one of the oldest churches in Peru. Its architecture is a blend of Spanish Colonial and Moorish styles, featuring a large bell tower, a portico, and a central nave. Inside, visitors can admire the ornate altarpieces, wooden sculptures, and colorful frescoes.
2. Learn About Its History: El Carmen Church of San Judas is closely linked to the history of the town of Chincha Alta. It was founded by the Dominican order in 1730 and has been the site of many important events in the town’s history, including the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 1821.
3. Attend a Traditional Festival: Every year, El Carmen Church of San Judas hosts a variety of traditional festivals and celebrations, such as the Feast of San Judas Tadeo in June, the Feast of the Virgen del Carmen in July, and the Feast of the Immaculate Conception in December.
4. Visit the Chapel of the Virgin: Inside the church, visitors can find the Chapel of the Virgin, which houses a beautiful statue of the Virgin Mary. This statue is believed to have miraculous powers and is visited by many pilgrims throughout the year.
5. Explore the Surrounding Area: The church is located in the heart of Chincha Alta, surrounded by a number of interesting attractions. Visitors can explore the nearby Plaza de Armas, the colonial-style buildings, and the archaeological sites, such as the Pachacamac ruins.
6. Take Part in a Procession: Every year, El Carmen Church of San Judas hosts a procession in honor of the Virgin Mary. During the procession, locals and visitors alike can join in the singing and dancing, as well as the traditional prayers and offerings.
7. Enjoy a Concert: El Carmen Church of San Judas often hosts concerts featuring traditional Peruvian music. These concerts are a great way to experience the culture and customs of the region.
8. Visit the Museum: The church has an attached museum that contains a variety of artifacts and documents related to the history of the church. Visitors can learn about the history of the church and the town of Chincha Alta.
9. Climb the Bell Tower: Climb the bell tower and admire the view of the town and the surrounding area. The bell tower is open to the public and is a great place to take in the beauty of the town and its surroundings.
10. Enjoy a Meal at a Local Restaurant: After a day of sightseeing, visitors can enjoy a delicious meal at one of the many local restaurants in Chincha Alta. The town is known for its traditional Peruvian cuisine, which includes dishes such as ceviche, lomo saltado, and aji de gallina.
No matter what your interests are, El Carmen Church of San Judas is sure to provide a memorable experience. From admiring its ancient architecture to taking part in traditional festivals, there are plenty of things to do in this beautiful church. So don’t miss out on the chance to visit El Carmen Church of San Judas, Chincha Alta, Peru.