Lima: History, Culture & Gastronomy in Peru’s Capital
Located on Peru’s central coast, Lima is a vibrant metropolis where history meets modernity, offering one of the world’s finest culinary scenes. Founded in 1535, the city blends colonial architecture, skyscrapers, and bohemian neighborhoods in a fascinating contrast.
- Minimum altitude: 0 m.a.s.l. (Costa Verde)
- Maximum altitude: 1,010 m.a.s.l. (Cieneguilla)
🏛 History & Culture
Plaza Mayor de Lima
The historic heart of the city, surrounded by the Lima Cathedral, Government Palace, and City Hall. At its center stands a bronze fountain from 1650.
Lima Cathedral
Built on the site of Lima’s first church in 1535, it features an ornate choir stall, side altars, and the tomb of Francisco Pizarro.
San Francisco Church & Convent
Famous for its catacombs and an impressive library. Its baroque façade and Sevillian tiles make it an architectural gem of the 17th century.
San Pedro Church
Built in 1638, it boasts gilded altars and colonial paintings. It was once managed by the Jesuits.
Santo Domingo Church & Convent
Houses the remains of Saint Rose of Lima and Saint Martin de Porres. Its carved wooden dome and choir stalls are true masterpieces.
Santa Rosa de Lima Monastery
Built next to the saint’s home, featuring her chapel, wishing well, and legendary lemon tree.
Palacio Torre Tagle
Now home to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, it stands out for its stone façade and finely carved wooden balconies.
Casa Oquendo o Palacio Osambela
A colonial mansion with five balconies and an observatory, once used to oversee the Callao port.
🌿 Nature & Adventure
Cerro San Cristóbal
A sacred Apu in pre-Hispanic Lima, offering a panoramic city view and a site museum.
Pachacámac
31 km south of Lima, this pre-Incan ceremonial center was the coastal region’s most important shrine. Highlights include the Temple of the Sun and Acllahuasi.
Beaches of Costa Verde
Stretching from Miraflores to Chorrillos, these beaches are perfect for surfing, relaxing, and enjoying fresh seafood.
🎭 Art & Culture
Lima Art Museum (MALI)
Located in the Palace of the Exposition, it showcases pre-Hispanic ceramics, textiles, goldwork, and a significant colonial and republican painting collection.
Italian Art Museum
Opened in 1924, its white marble façade displays Italian city crests and mosaics of historical figures.
🍽 Gastronomy & Traditions
Lima is considered the gastronomic capital of the Americas. Some of its most iconic dishes include:
- Ceviche – Fresh fish marinated in lime juice.
- Lomo Saltado – Stir-fried beef with onions and tomatoes, served with fries.
- Ají de Gallina – Creamy shredded chicken stew.
- Suspiro a la Limeña – Traditional dessert with caramelized milk and meringue.
🎉 Festivals & Traditions
Lord of Miracles Procession (October)
South America’s largest Catholic procession, where thousands of devotees dressed in purple take to Lima’s streets.
📅 Best time to visit: Year-round. Mild climate, with drizzle in winter and clear skies in summer.
📍 How to Get There?
Direct flights from national and international cities. Jorge Chávez International Airport is Peru’s main gateway.
