Lima attractions: Begin at the Parque Municipal, an open space surrounded by colonial architecture. From there walk down Zapita, over Puente de Los Suspiros (Bridge of Sighs), and out to the cliff lookout. The private Museo de Arte Colonial Pedro de Osma is housed in the historic mansion Palacio de Osma. The museum’s exceptional collection of colonial art from around Peru includes paintings, sculptures, metalwork, stonework, silver, and furniture.
Underneath Lima’s San Francisco de Lima Basilica and Convent lies the burial site of over 25,000 bodies. The site was used as a burial ground until 1808. Tours of the underground catacombs are offered daily for around $7. This cemetery-turned-museum offers visitors a glimpse into Peruvian history and, in one notable mausoleum, pays homage to those men and women who served their country in the War of the Pacific. This area is where you’ll find Lima’s most breathtaking colonial architecture. Francisco Pizarro established the city’s central square in the 16th century to serve as the capital of colonial South America. Not one building remains from that period, but the area is nonetheless stunning.
The Plaza de Armas, also known as the Plaza Mayor, sits at the heart of Lima’s historic center, one of the few remaining parts of the city that still gives a sense of the city’s colonial past. Acknowledged for its historical and cultural significance by being awarded UNESCO World Heritage status in 1988, this is the spot where Francisco Pizarro founded the city in 1535. A colonial fountain serves as the square’s centerpiece, while some of Lima’s most important buildings surround the historic plaza. Arm yourself with a camera and take a trip to the Palacio de Gobierno, official home to Peru’s President, on the northern side of the square where, at noon, you can watch the changing of the palace guard. To the southeast lies the Catedral de Lima, the final resting place of Pizarro himself and built on the plot of Lima’s first church. Further photo opportunities include the Archbishop’s Palace and the Municipal Palace (Lima’s City Hall), both of which are adorned with ornately carved, and magnificently preserved, wooden balconies.
For traditional Peruvian handicrafts, try the numerous Artisanal Markets along Av. La Marina, just north of the neighborhood (technically in Pueblo Libre, which we’ll talk about next week). There are all the usual suspects of crafts from all over the country, and it’s a great place to go to get your last-minute gifts. The prices are slightly higher than they would be in a smaller town, but they’re lower than the artisan shopping area of Miraflores. Discover additional pictures of this incredible ocean view penthouse on @AmazingPeruPenthouse on Facebook. Need a place to rent in Lima, Peru? Explore a few more details at Magdalena del Mar penthouse to book.
Groundbreaking for the construction of the original Lima Cathedral took place in 1535, and was expanded over the years. After it was destroyed several times by earthquakes, it was demolished and a totally new cathedral built several centuries later. The current cathedral is based on the 1746 cathedral. With additions over the years, the cathedral represents architectural styles from baroque to neoclassic. Located in historic Lima, the ornate cathedral has 13 chapels; the cathedral’s main altar is gold-plated. Saints, virgins and apostles are carved into the choir stalls. The Spanish explorer Francisco Pizarro, who conquered Peru, is buried here. The cathedral is even more impressive when it is lit up at night.