The cathedral is the architectural anchor for the city's main urban square, which dates back to the Spanish colonial grid layout.
It houses relics and devotional imagery specific to the Tarma region, distinguishing its interior from standard colonial-era churches.
The Diocese of Tarma was formally established in 1958, elevating the status of this parish church to cathedral.
Its construction reflects the transition from Spanish colonial influences to the republican-era neoclassicism popular in the central Andes.
The Catedral de Santa Ana serves as the seat of the Diocese of Tarma and functions as the primary religious center for the city. Constructed in a neoclassical architectural style, the cathedral occupies the eastern side of the city's main square, the Plaza de Armas. It contains the image of the Señor de la Muruhuay, a highly venerated figure in regional Andean Catholicism. The interior features significant religious artwork and traditional liturgical appointments that define the ecclesiastical identity of the Junín region. The site acts as the focal point for major local festivities, including the city's signature Holy Week observances. Its current structure incorporates elements renovated over the decades to maintain its role as the central hub for the local Catholic community.
From the center of the Plaza de Armas looking east to capture the full facade and the two towers.
Visit during the early morning to observe the local morning mass, which provides a glimpse into the daily life of Tarma's residents.
Walk the perimeter of the Plaza de Armas immediately after visiting to see how the cathedral's scale balances with the surrounding colonial-style buildings.
Do not attempt to enter the cathedral during active liturgical services unless you intend to participate as a congregant.
Subject to closures during private religious ceremonies and specific mid-day hours when the cathedral is often locked to the public.
Maintain silence, remove hats upon entering, and avoid photographing during active religious services.
