LAUSR

The research offers an insight into the development of the Ecclesiastical Province of Lima, highlighting the peripheral dioceses, namely Quito, Arequipa, and Santiago de Chile. The study shows how the attributes of autonomy and the collegial character of the bishop’s profile allowed the peripheral dioceses of this Ecclesiastical Province to solve the challenges of maturing and consolidating ecclesial structures more efficiently. These processes were strengthened with the influence of the Council of Trent in the patronage laws, especially those related to reforms, such as the residence and pastoral visit of the bishop, the foundation of seminaries and the celebration of diocesan synods or provincial councils. These aspects have been found analyzing the reports of the Visita ad Limina Apostolorum that bishops sent to Rome, every ten years, according to the rule promulgated by Sixtus V in 1585.