The current house and headquarters of the Chachapoyas bishopric are also where Peru's independence hero, Toribio Rodriguez Mendoza was born. This house is interesting as it combines colonial and republican influences in its architecture and historical importance.
Who was Toribio Rodriguez de Mendoza?
Don Alejandro Toribio Rodríguez de Mendoza Collantes was born on April 17, 1750. He is hailed as one of the eminent forerunners of national independence. He lived in Chachapoyas, Amazonas' region capital.
He was a priest, educator, and advocate, raising a new generation of patriots with new ideas. When Peru was established, this great leader stood with his followers. When he was a student, Rodríguez de Mendoza was brilliant.
That's why he earned his doctorate in Theology from the University of San Marcos in Lima. He was a professor of Philosophy and Theology at the Royal Convictorio of San Carlos. Later, he became its Rector.
Even in his old age, he joined the liberating expedition led by San Martín. He emerged from retirement to serve the new government where he played a key role in the birth of the Peruvian Republic.
He gave invaluable guidance in Congress during the turbulent time of Independence. He lived to see the triumph of Ayacucho in 1825. Finally, Peru won freedom and independence "through the people's will".
Today, Peru honors its legacy through the "Toribio Rodríguez de Mendoza" medal. The Constitutional Court of the Republic awards the medal to renowned people or groups. Peruvian people get it for defending the Constitution or Human Rights.
What's the house like?
The house was built in the 18th century by Don Santiago Rodríguez de Mendoza Hernaldi y Arbildo Maestro de Campos. In the mid-19th century, Doña Isabel Rodríguez de Mendoza gave the house to the Diocese of Chachapoyas, using it as the Bishop's residence.
The façade of the building is divided into two levels: The main gate opens into a hallway, then this hallway leads to wide corridors around the courtyard. In this house, the Bishop's room stands out, named for the 12 portraits it houses. It also holds a map of the Jesuit missions on the Marañón River.
It has 18th-century rococo-style furniture, and paintings depicting Saint Peter, Saint Paul, and the Christ of Poverty. On the crucifix, there are two lecterns plated in hammered silver.
Another part of the house is the reception room. It has an 18th-century churrigueresque-style piece of furniture and leather embossed Frailero armchairs. Also, the house has an archive with papers dating to the 16th century.
Address: Ortiz Arriet St, 466, Chachapoyas, Amazonas
“La Casona de Las Rosas”
Since 2000, the National Institute of Culture has declared “La Casona de las Dos Rosas” (The Two Rose Mansion) a National Cultural Heritage Site. This lovely building is a Mansion-Museum part of the local tourist circuit in Chachapoyas.
The halls of this fascinating house are lined with burnt brick. It has a cobblestone patio, and beautiful ornamental items like grinding stones, mortars, and chests sit on it. Colorful plant pots add warmth to this lovely building. The Casona de las Dos Rosas won the Dream Patios, Gardens, and Balconies Contest.
Address: Amazonas St, 670, Chachapoyas, Amazonas
