Iglesia de la Recoleta, Cusco

This Franciscan church and convent on the southeastern edge of Cusco's historic center offers a quieter counterpart to the busy churches of the main square. Founded in the colonial period, it preserves cloisters, colonial paintings and carved altarpieces amid a peaceful setting. Its whitewashed walls and modest bell tower reflect the restrained architecture of the outlying religious houses. The complex shows how the Franciscan order established convents beyond the ceremonial core of the old Inca capital.