In the south of the current Ancash region of Peru, there is a significant number of churches whose foundations date back to the 16th century. During the viceroyalty age, churches with original features were built, among which the elongated nave stands out. This study investigates the origin of the elongated nave in the Andean region of Ancash by comparing the typological and constructive characteristics of the churches with similar buildings in other parts of Peru. The aim is to establish a relationship between the elongated nave and the Christian liturgy that was adapted to the Andean environment. This peculiar characteristic originated from the need for spaces for Christian rituals that took place along a longitudinal axis. The Spanish builders initially occupied the existing buildings, then constructed new structures based on a consolidated scheme that allowed for the congregation of ...