Perou Decouverte
Perou Decouverte
Founded in 1535 by Francisco Pizarro, Lima's Historic Center represents one of the best-preserved colonial architectural ensembles in Latin America. Listed as a World Heritage Site since 1988, it covers 10 km² and includes:
The historic heart of Lima since its foundation in 1535. This iconic square features:
📍 Av. Nicolás de Piérola (ex-Colmena) block 9 - 5 blocks from Plaza Mayor
Connection: Linked to Plaza Mayor via Jirón de la Unión pedestrian street
Jewel of the Republican era (inaugurated in 1921 for Peru's independence centennial):
16th century jewel famous for:
Founded in 1540, this religious complex houses:
Daily at 11:45 AM in front of Government Palace. Colorful spectacle with military band in full dress uniform.
📍 Av. Paseo Colón 125, Lima 15001 - 10 min walk from Plaza Mayor
Features Peruvian art from the 16th to 20th century in an elegant Republican-era building.
📍 Jirón de la Unión 554, Lima 15001 - Right in the shopping district
Former residence of liberator Bernardo O'Higgins, now a PUCP cultural center.
📍 Jr. Junín 548, Barrios Altos - Visit this neighborhood by day
Located in the former tribunal of the Holy Office (16th century), near Plaza Bolívar.
📍 Jr. Huancavelica 172, Historic Center - 2 blocks from San Francisco
House-museum of Admiral Grau in a typical colonial mansion.
📍 Jr. Ancash 207, Cercado de Lima - Former Desamparados train station, facing Government Palace
Housed in the impressive 1912 train station building, this cultural institution offers:
📍 Jr. Rufino Torrico block 11, Cercado de Lima - On Plaza Francia, in Hospicio Manrique
Alternative location: Some sources indicate Jr. Conde de Superunda 141
Major collection of 19th century Peruvian paintings, with key works of Peruvian Romanticism.
📍 Jr. Ancash 542, Historic Center - House of the Thirteen Coins
Unique museum dedicated to African heritage, near San Francisco Monastery.
📍 Jr. Áncash, Barrios Altos - Main entrance via Av. Rufino Torrico
Lima's oldest cemetery (1808), 15 min walk from Plaza Mayor.
📍 Pedestrian street between Plaza Mayor and San Martín Square
Historic shopping street (16th century) where you'll find:
📍 Access via Av. Alcázar (Rímac) - Altitude 400m - 360° views
Transport:
🔍 Crucial tip:
Note: Allow at least 1.5 hours for visit (transport + viewing).
Sensitive areas:
Free admission days:
Best practices:
💡 2025 Tip: Check the Ministry of Culture website for updated monthly list of free museums.
Tips: Start your day at Plaza San Martín, an architectural gem surrounded by harmonious white buildings. Don't miss:
Then walk along Jirón de la Unión, a vibrant pedestrian street, to reach Plaza de Armas (Plaza Mayor) where you'll find:
Afternoon: Immerse yourself in religious history with:
Customize based on your interests:
| Site | Price | Hours | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cathedral | 30 soles | 9AM-5PM | - |
| San Francisco | 20 soles | 9:30AM-5:30PM | - |
| Inquisition Museum | Free | 9AM-5PM | Sensitive area |
The neighborhood offers diverse dining options for all tastes and budgets:
💡 Good to know: Weekday lunches often feature "menús ejecutivos" (set menus) with excellent value for money.
Accommodations reflect the neighborhood's character, blending heritage and modernity:
💡 Tip: Choose side streets to avoid nighttime noise from commercial avenues while remaining close to major sites.
Between colonial splendors, captivating museums and vibrant daily life, Lima's Historic Center offers an immersive experience where every street tells a page of history. With these recommended itineraries and good addresses, you're ready for independent exploration.
🌍 Ready to explore Peru with confidence?
Useful Travel Phrases →Essential phrases in Spanish, French and Portuguese for managing transportation, restaurants and emergency situations.
Enjoy your visit to this UNESCO World Heritage gem, where the past constantly converses with the contemporary energy of Peru's capital!
Explore our complete guide to Lima's main districts to plan your itinerary.
See Lima's Districts