Lima is the capital city of Peru, located between the valleys of Chillion and the rivers to the central coast of Peru. It is home to some of the most fantastic historical monuments and ancient institutions founded during the Spanish kingdom. If you are a history buff it is the perfect place to go on holiday, starting from the historic center and working towards the beautiful countryside.
Historic Center of Lima
The city of Lima was founded by Francisco Pizarro in 1535 and was given the name ‘City of Kings’. In the center of Lima’s historic past you will see a mix of Spanish colonial and Moorish architecture, as well as some of the most unique and historic buildings from the 18th century.th a century. From its foundation, the Lima port of Callao was the entry point for all trade from Spain, Mexico and China. A wealthy class emerged, which built spectacular palaces, gardens and churches.
Plaza Mayor
Plaza Mayor is a must see when you are Peru. It was here in 1535, that the Spanish conquistador Francisco Pizarro founded Lima. You can admire all the significant colonial institutions around the Plaza including the Cathedral, Palacio Arzobispal, Parroquia del Sagrario, the Municipality and the Palacio de Gobierno. The Cathedral is open to the public and houses a museum with an extensive collection of art, artefacts and historical memorabilia. The Plaza was also used to execute those condemned by the Spanish Inquisition.
Palace of Justice
Inspired by the architecture of the Courts of Law in Brussels, it is a symbol of Peru’s judiciary. It is built in a grand neoclassical style with the Great Hall supported by columns and decorated with monumental bronze lamps. In the center is the bust of the first president of the Supreme Court, Don Manuel Lorenzo de Vidaurre. The interior of the Palacio de Justicia is inaccessible to the general public but its architectural value is something to marvel at.
Casa Aliaga
Casa Aliaga is a wonderful example of Spanish colonial architecture. It was the home of eighteen generations of the Aliaga family and served almost five centuries. It is considered one of the oldest houses in South America. It holds a wide collection of Peruvian art and artifacts, such as the sword Jerónimo de Aliaga used in the conquest of Peru. It may not look like much from the outside, but inside you can admire the exquisite craftsmanship, with beautiful vintage furniture and detailed tile work. It can only be visited through excursions organized with Lima Tours.
Cieneguilla
If you are willing to venture a little further for a more traditional view of Peruvian life, Cieneguilla is definitely worth the visit. Twenty kilometers east of Lima, its warm sunny weather makes it a popular place to go for camping and horse riding. Cieneguilla is interesting to visit as it has not been destroyed by urban growth, keeping many of its wild landscapes and natural surroundings untouched. Be sure to try the many authentic dishes around the area such as pachamanca, a meat and vegetable dish, cooked slowly with hot wood and stones. The main access route to Cieneguilla is a highway that exits the District of La Molina.
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