San Pedro Hospital was founded in 1654 and opened in 1663 to serve the impoverished and destitute. Three different Catholic orders have managed the institution during its long history. After each devastating earthquake, repairs were made or the hospital was rebuilt. Unlike most colonial structures in the city, St. Peter Hospital continues to be maintained and functional. The Franciscan friars operate Hospital del Hermano Pedro with the same mission established over 350 years ago. The Obras Sociales Hermano Pedro is also a social center. It provides living quarters for the elderly, nourishment for the underprivileged of all ages, clothing for the poor and basic outpatient services.
