enchantingtravels.com/peru 18 Peru boasts a delightful melange of colonial and pre-Columbian traditions. Traverse the Route of the Andean Baroque (Ruta del Barroco Andino) to visit four spectacular colonial Jesuit churches built in the 16th and 17th centuries. Art Seen In the 16th century, the missionaries of La Compañía de Jesús utilized art to indoctrinate the indigenous people of Peru into the Christian faith. Each location was strategically chosen for its proximity to the commercial trading hubs of gold, silver, coca and fibers, which had existed even before Inca times. Set in breathtaking landscapes, these trading routes were further enhanced with beautiful Baroque influence. From the Inca capital of Cusco, to the jungle of Madre de Dios and Lake Titicaca, you can observe four significant religious sites: the Church of La Compañía de Jesús, located in the Plaza de Armas of Cusco, and the churches of Andahuaylillas, Huaro and Canincunca, in the South Valley. In addition to the historic art, the legacy of the missionaries’ active social work continues in this region. Once you’ve explored the Inca ruins, discover the area's exquisite colonial art and architecture. Most significant is the 'Sistine Chapel of the Andes', which also houses two restored 17th-century organs. Tucking into a delicious picnic lunch within the Andean countryside is just part of the experience. PA RT N E R S POT L I G H T : P E RU GO SLOW 19 Images courtesy of Erick Baca CUSCO Iglesia de la Compañía de Jesús, Plaza de Armas, 16th century CUSCO Chapel of the Virgen Purificada de Canincunca, 17th century ANDAHUAYLILLAS San Pedro Apóstol de Andahuaylillas Church, 17th century HUARO Iglesia de San Juan Bautista de Huaro, 16th century TALK TO OUR EXPERT Jay Harlow jay@enchantingtravels.com