Getty Partners to Restore Earthquake-Damaged 17th-Century Peruvian Church
A multi-year initiative will preserve the Church of Rondocan and its rare art collection.
1Preserving Andean Cultural Heritage
The Getty is partnering with Peruvian authorities to conserve the 17th-century Church of Santo Tomás de Aquino, also known as the Church of Rondocan. Located in the Andean highlands, this earthen site has suffered significant seismic damage over the years. The project aims to protect both the structure and its vast collection.
2Government Funding and Scope
The Peruvian government has allocated $5 million for this multi-year initiative. The project focuses on strengthening the adobe walls against future earthquakes while ensuring the long-term care of over 300 cultural objects. These include 17th- and 18th-century paintings, gilded wooden retablos, sculptures, and various ecclesiastical textiles found within the historic church.
3Seismic Retrofitting Technology
The Getty Conservation Institute’s Seismic Retrofitting Project will utilize high-tech analytical techniques to stabilize the site. By applying specialized engineering methods, the team intends to reinforce the thick adobe brick walls against seismic activity. This collaboration with the Ministry of Culture of Peru is scheduled to begin construction in 2027.
4Rediscovery of Lost Masterpieces
The church houses a rare series of eight large easel paintings by Italian Jesuit priest Bernardo Bitti, created in the 1590s. Long thought lost by art historians, these works were rediscovered by Getty staffers in 2010. One specific painting, 'Prayer in the Garden,' will be transferred to the Getty in 2027 for treatment.
5Historical Artistic Significance
Bernardo Bitti is credited with introducing Mannerism to Peruvian art after his training in Rome. His influence spread through his travels in Juli, La Paz, and Lima, shaping painters across the Andes. The church’s collection remains uniquely valuable because there is no evidence that these specific artifacts have ever undergone previous restoration efforts.
6Rare Research Opportunity
The project offers a rare chance to document artifacts in their original, unrestored state. Studying the decorative surfaces of the lateral altarpieces will provide essential data on original materials. This knowledge will help stakeholders interpret similar decorative surfaces found in other historic churches throughout Peru, advancing the broader field of conservation science.
7Community-Centered Conservation
Unlike museum-based conservation, this project involves objects that remain in active use by the local community. Residents carry sculptures during Semana Santa processions, presenting unique challenges for preservationists. The Getty team emphasizes the importance of collaborating with the Rondocan community, who have served as the primary caretakers for many generations.
8Long-term Impact and Strategy
Since 2011, the Getty Conservation Institute has worked with local professionals to protect significant earthen buildings across Peru. By combining seismic engineering with community engagement, this project establishes a model for maintaining remote sacred sites. The initiative ensures that these vital cultural landmarks remain standing for future generations to cherish and utilize.