Franciscan missions in Peru over the centuries – basic information

Abstract

This study briefly presents the history of a mission and work of Franciscans in Peru from the 16th to the 20th century. It is a history of Observant Friars who were present there uninterruptedly – despite many problems, particularly at the beginning of the 19th century when Peru gained independence and became a Republic. However, circumstantial evidence of the presence of Conventual Friars had been already noticed in the 16th century. The missionary issue in undiscovered and not-conquered areas during the Spanish conquest of America constitutes the center of brothers’ activity, starting principally from the 17th century. The formation of missionary colleges in Peru formed an impulse to carry out expeditions to the Peruvian Amazonian jungle, where brothers used to preach the Gospel and they made a sacrifice of their life for the martyrdom. The Franciscan spirit and its style were acquired by many Indios, peculiarly thanks to the work of Doctrinas – parishes appointed by the natives. Brothers defended Inca, they cared about the justice, taught them a new production and agricultural activities, became involved into the social life, culture and art. Franciscans had also learnt the local language, they wrote grammars and dictionaries, described customs and geography of this land, considerably contributing to comprehension and knowledge about the culture and the world of Inca.