LIMA PERU

Pre Colonial History

The first residents of the area were nomadic herders in 10,000 BC. The first significant settlement is an archaeological site known as El Paradiso built in 2000 BC. Built along the Chillón River the city extended over 50 hectares and consisted of a big pyramid that was used as a temple or an administrative center and smaller housing for its inhabitants. There is thought to have been some 1500 to 3000 people living within the city.

Chavin

The Chavin were the first significant culture in Peru, and are considered the foundation for all future Peruvian Cultures. The Chavin inhabited the northern Andes region of Peru between 900 BC and 200 AD. The Chavin domesticated plants and animals, the created methods of irrigation both for farming and to avoid flooding in their cities. The Chavin are best known for their artwork in particular their pottery and gold and metal works. Though the best example of Chavin architecture is found north of Lima at Chavín de Huantar temple their influence can be seen at Huaca Garagay located in today's district of "San Martín de Porres" in Lima

Lima Culture and Maranga

As the Chavin Culture declined the Lima Culture began in the fertile Rimic River Valley. During their time 200 to 650 AD the Limas they constructed canals to irrigate the desert outside of Lima which allowed them to have larger populations in the area. As the civilization grew they constructed urban centers out of layered adobe bricks with monumental known as Huacas throughout the valley. Visitors to Lima today can see evidence of the Lima Culture in the archaeological sites of Huaca San Marcos, Huaca Concha, Middendorf and Potosi Alto and Huallamarca in San Isidro, Huaca Pucllana in Miraflores.

The largest of the Lima Culture sites is Maranga, parts of which can be seen on the grounds of the University of San Marcos and at Lima Zoo. At one time it consisted of 14 huge pyramids and was surrounded by at least 50 smaller buildings and was spread out over an area of 4 million square meters, making it one of largest archaeological sites in all of Peru.

The Wari Empire

In 650 AD, the Wari Empire overtook the region. During the era of the Wari many of the sites built by other cultures were rebuilt or expanded upon. The Wari preferred the southern city of Pachacamac to Maranga and based their administration center of the region there. Under the Wari Pachacamac was expanded, additional pyramids were built and the site grew to be some 210 acres. Pachacamac became a large city home to thousands including Oracles and Priests, and the most important religious center in Latin America.

Chancay and Ichma Cultures

As the Wari Empire lost its importance the Lima area came under the influence of two different cultures the Chancay Culture from the North who brought with them their incredible weaving techniques to the Lima Area and the Ichma Culture from the South. The Ichma continued with the building of Huacas in the Lima Area and during their era the Huaca San Borja was constructed.

Incas Influence on Lima

The Chancay and Ichma Cultures were absorbed into the Inca Culture which arrived in Lima in 1450. During the Incas the Incas divided the area into 4 divisions Carbayllo, Maranga, Surco and Pachacamac. At La Palma in Maranga the Incas built their palace. The pyramid contains three platforms connected with two ramps. The base is surrounded by sidewalks and walls with small niches. In 2001archaeologist discovered and began the restoration of amazing friezes, the Aves Piquero and the Cruces Escalonada the freezes can easily be seen while visiting the zoo. At Pachacmac the Incas built a Sun Temple and The Acllahuasi expanding the site and adding to it with classic Incan architecture.

With the arrival of the Spanish the pre-colonial history of Lima was ignored and many of the Huacas were destroyed either to make way for new construction or by weather and neglect. It has only been in the recent years that the people of Peru have begun to embrace these early cultures and began to protect and restore these sites for the future.

Colonial Lima - Viceroyalty of Peru

The site of modern day Peru was founded January 18, 1535 by conquistador Francisco Pizarro naming it The City of Kings. Yet the area's original name endured and it continued as Lima. The city became the capital of the Vice-royalty of Peru and the Real Audiencia in 1543. The Americas were divided into two Vice royalties - New Spain (based in Mexico City, Mexico) and Peru (based in Lima). It was from Lima that the Spanish oversaw and governed South America.

It was during these early years that the historic Center of Lima was built including the Plaza Major, The Basilica Cathedral of Lima (1535-1540), Governmental Palace-House of Pizarro (1535), Archbishops Palace, House of Aligia (1535), House of Pilatos, the University of San Marco and Convent of Santo Domingo and the Court of Santo Oficio (1569).

During the 17th century Lima expanded and developed as the city became a key port in trade between the Americas, Europe and Asia. The vice-royalty required all shipments to pass through the port of Callao to and from overseas markets. As a result the economy in Lima thrived and the population boomed from an estimated 25,000 people in 1619 to 80,000 in 1687.

Spanish Balconies

During the late 17th century and early 18th century as the wealth of Lima grew so did the pomp and circumstance. Distinctive Spanish Balconies were built in much of the colonial center these enclosed wooden balconies, Moorish in design allowed the high society woman of the day to observe the city without the impropriety of being seen from a window or going outside. The Balconies remained a source of national pride and the preservation of them was considered a high priority. Today it is estimated 1600 of these ornate wooden balconies can be seen in historic Lima.

Real Filipe

The wealth passing through Lima made it a frequently target for pirates and privateers. To defend the city and its riches a wall was built around the city between 1684 and 1687. The walls included 34 bulwarks and five gates; their total cost was estimated at 400,000 pesos. When an earthquake and subsequent tsunami destroyed much of the walls in 1746 the fort known as Real Filipe was constructed (1747-1774) and was the largest construction project the Spanish had under took costing a staggering 3 million pesos. The Real Filipe became known as the Castillo of Callao and stands as the most important military site for the defense of Lima.

Other Sites from the Colonial Period

Other building of interest constructed during this period include: Basilica of San Pedro (1638), Merced Church, Sanctuary and Monastery of Las Nazarenas, Basilica and Convent of San Francisco (1774), Torne Tangle Palace (1715) and the Plaza de Toros de Acho the oldest bullring in the Americas and 2nd oldest in the world.

Independence and the Republican Era

In the early 1800's Lima was adversely effected by the Bourbon Reforms and then later became a royalist stronghold in the South American War of Independence. New construction in Lima came to a halt. By the time of Peru's independence in 1824, Lima was impoverished. Over the next few decades the new government would work to establish a new infrastructure including a new market, hospitals and prisons.

During the republican era railroad lines and bridges were built connecting Lima with the rest of Peru. The Lima to Huancayo Railway Line (1870-1908) built in became the world's highest railway.

War of the Pacific and Occupation of Lima

The late 18th century saw the War of the Pacific (1879-1883). After defeating the Peruvian and Bolivian Armies in the Arica Deserts near the border, the Chilean forces marched on Lima. Arriving in Pisco and Chilca set out to conquer Lima. Along the way they met Lima's last line of defense literary every male of the city became part of an untrained militia fighting to save their city from foreigner invaders. The Chilean Military easily defeated the militia at the battles of Miraflores and Chorillos and for the next few years the Chileans would occupy and loot Lima.

Modern Era

After the war Lima saw a time of expansion large avenues were constructed to connect Historic Lima with neighboring cities like Miraflores. The Government Palace and Municipal Palace were rebuilt. The Palace of Justice (1938) and Plaza San Martin with its surrounding Colon Theatre (1914) and the Hotel Bolivar (1924) the first modern hotel in the city were all built.

On May 24, 1940 an earthquake destroyed much of Lima however with its rapid growth and immigration over the next few decades Lima quickly rebounded and expanded into the thriving city that it is today.

Barranco

The most romantic and bohemian of the districts within Lima, Barranco has long been a favorite home to local artists. Set along the coast next to Miraflores, where as the traditional buildings in other districts have been torn down to make way for towering new condominiums and apartment complexes, Barranco has tree lined streets with Colonial and Republican Style houses, lush parks, and beach access giving which combine give the city its charm.

Art is the best reason to visit Barranco. During the day you can choose between Lima's contemporary art museum, the MAC and the Museo Pedro de Osma, which hosts one of the best collections of colonial art. At night Barranco comes alive with numerous restaurants, nightclubs, discos, bars and peñas, where you can enjoy live entertainment.

Callao

Situated on the coast west of Lima, Callao is the transportation hub of Peru. Under the Spanish, Callao was the principal port in South America from which all international imports and exports flowed. Today, Callao is home to Peru's largest seaport. If you have arrived in Lima via air - you have been to Callao. The Jose Chavez International Airport the country's main airport and one of the largest in South America is also located in Callao. The Lima Airport has been named the best airport in South America for 2008 - 2011. Callao is also home to the Lima Train Station it's from here where the Ferrocarril Central Andino departs from the historic central Andes Railway line departs for the train from Lima to Huancayo.

Callao was founded in 1537 just two years after the founding of Lima. Its importance as a port are both in historic times and today are portrayed by the Real Filipe the largest fortress built in the Americas during colonial times to protect the port of Lima, the Lima Yacht club as well as the Naval Academy all of which are located in Callao.

Central Lima

The most important district is Central Lima, the historic heart of the capital. During the 16th and 17th century when Lima was the most important city in South America, Central Lima was at the core of the new world. The layout of Lima was diagrammed under Francisco Pizarro in the early 1500's. The Spanish City of Kings was established on the foundations of the former pre-Colombian city utilizing the aqueducts and structures built by previous the areas previous inhabitants. Central Lima is the governmental and religious center of Peru and is established in the traditional Spanish grid fashion radiating from the Plaza Mayor.

A UNESCO world heritage site, visiting the area today, with its inspiring architecture seemingly transports travelers back in time to the city's glorious past. During its more than 500 year history, Central Lima has undergone many metamorphoses. The original buildings once made of adobe and leather lashings have long since turned to dust aided by a series of earthquakes over the years. The main fountain in the Plaza Mayor dates back to 1651 is one of the few historical structures that remain from Lima's early days. Most of what makes up today's Central Lima was constructed in the early 1900's of brick and stone in the renaissance, rococo or baroque style.

Central Lima is home to parks, plazas, squares, palaces and churches. Some of the most astonishing sites within the historic center include - the Plaza de Armas (with the cathedral, Sagrario chapel, archbishop's palace), the Plaza de la Vera Cruz with Santo Domingo, and the Basilica and Convent of San Francisco (founded by Emperor Charles V and Francisco Pizarro) the largest of its type in this part of the world.

Beginning from the center - the Plaza Mayor, to the north you will find the Governmental Palace also known as The House of Pizarro. Francisco Pizarro's (the founder of Lima) original building was constructed on the site from which the Incas oversaw the affairs of the area. Under Pizarro a large adobe structure was built where he resided and administered the region. After his death the site became the headquarters for the Viceroys of Peru. Rebuilt in the early 20th century the site has serviced as the official residence and office of the President of Peru since 1939.

To the right of the Governmental Palace on the east side of the plaza is the Basilica Cathedral of Lima and Archbishop's Palace built on the site of pre-Colombian pyramid. The Cathedral of Lima is the oldest building on the main plaza. Construction of the original cathedral began in 1535. Over the years earthquakes severely damaged or destroyed the Cathedral several times causing a need for a series of renovations and reconstructions. The current cathedral was built in 1755 has a colonial feel and is considered one of the most beautiful cathedrals on the continent. Adjoining the Cathedral is the Archbishop's Palace complete with classic Spanish Balconies. The Archbishop's Palace is the residence of the Archbishop of Lima and the headquarters of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Lima.

Flanking the southern and western sides of the plaza are the Municipal Palace and the Plaza de Union. Both buildings were constructed during the 1940's and feature the neo-classical style. At the intersection between these buildings is the Jiron de Union - today a pedestrian street connecting the Plaza Mayor with the Plaza de San Martin, for many centuries the Jiron de Union was the most important boulevard in Lima. The boulevard travels 9 blocks beginning from the Rimic River, past the Plaza Mayor, crosses in front of the Cathedral of La Merced and the smaller Plazoleta de La Merced church where San Martin declared Peru's independence in 1821 and ends a block beyond the Plaza de San Martin another of Lima's important Plazas.

The Plaza of San Martin was built to celebrate the 100th year of Independence. It is one of the largest and most beautiful plazas in Lima, larger than the Plaza Mayor. At the center of the plaza is a large bronze statue of General Jose de San Martin horseback. San Martin is a key figure in the battle for independence from France. The Plaza is surrounded by a number of Republican Buildings built in the early 20th century including the Colon Theatre, Club National and Hotel Bolivar - the first international level hotel in Lima built to receive dignitaries to the new Republic of Peru.

A block northwest of the Plaza Mayor is the Plaza de la Vera Cruz and the Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary and Convent of Santo Domingo. Construction of the original church began at the same time as the Basilica Cathedral, however it there were more than five decades of delays in the building of Santo Domingo.

The interior of the Basilica has images from the earliest days of Lima. Yet perhaps the most impressive fact is that it was on these grounds in 1551 that the National University of San Marcos was established - the oldest university in the Americas and one of the oldest university's in the world.

While a block northeast of the plaza are the Basilica and Convent San Francisco the church and its impressive library as well as enormous catacombs, consecrated in 1673 it is one of the best preserved colonial churches in Lima. It withstood the earthquakes of 1687 and 1746 but did suffer extensive damage in a quake in 1970. The Library on the upper level contains thousands of historical books and documents. There is a significant amount of artwork within the Convent including early frescoes and paintings. Underneath the church is an extensive labyrinth of catacombs the final resting place for tens of thousands of people. A tour of the underground tunnels finds you on pathways with skulls and bones piled high on either side of you.

The district is also home to several fine art galleries and other attractions including the Museum of Italian Art, and the Palacio de la Exposición home to the Lima Museum of Art. For families one of the more popular attractions in Lima is the Park of the Reserve and the Magic Water Tour. The park is home to 13 distinct fountains many of which are interactive and is the largest fountain complex in the world.

Lurin

The agricultural district of Lurin is in the southern part of Lima. It is home to the pre-Colombian archaeological site of Pachacamac. The site dates back almost 2000 years and at one time was the most important religious site in the Americas. The large adobe structure and adjacent museum tell the story of the many cultures that lived here including the Limas, Wari, Ichma and Incas. A visit to Pachamac makes an interesting half day trip from Lima.

Miraflores

The beachfront district of Miraflores is the favorite tourist destination in Lima. An upscale area, Miraflores is home to many shops, cafes, restaurants, theaters and flower filled parks. The majority of hotels catering to international travelers can be found in Miraflores including the luxurious JW Marriott and Miraflores Park Hotel.

At the center of Parque Kennedy, an oasis of green in the otherwise busy city the park is a favorite meeting spot for people of all ages. During the day you can see families gathered around the playground, local artists selling paintings, or others sitting on benches enjoying a conversation or good book. At night the park has a flea market as well as frequent musical events. On either side of the park are busy boulevards with many restaurants, cafes, bars and shops. There seems to be always something going on or near the park.

A couple of miles from Parque Kennedy is Huaca Pucllana one of several pre-Colombian archaeology sites in Lima. Built by the Lima Culture between 200 - 700 AD this adobe pyramid was an important site for several early cultures including the Wari and Incas. A short tour of the site takes you around through the courtyard and to the top of the pyramid to learn about the Limas and their way of life. The Huaca Pucllana restaurant has a panoramic vista of the ruins and offers excellent Peruvian food along with an impressive wine list.

Built into the cliffs overlooking the coast is the shopping center, Larcomar. Home to upscale stores, movie theaters, several restaurants as well as a PeruRail office, Larcomar is a frequent evening destination for Peruvians and visitors alike.

Possibility the most famous site in Miraflores is the restaurant Rosa Nautica. Built on top a pier on the Pacific Ocean, Rosa Nautica has been a favorite since it first opened some 30 years ago. Featuring Peruvian and international cuisine the restaurant has a mesmerizing view of the ocean surrounding the restaurant.

Pueblo Libre

Founded in 1557, the city's name came after the War of Independence in recognition of the patriotism shown by the city's inhabitants. The area was the home of Francisco Pizarro the founder of Peru, and today visitors can visit his colonial mansion which now houses the National Archaeological Museum of Peru. The museum is home to some 100,000 artifacts spanning the entire human history of Peru.

Pueblo Libre is also home to the Larco Museum the finest museum the world and home to the best pre-Colombian art museums. The Larco Museum is a private museum founded in 1926. The museum is located in an 18th century viceroy mansion built on top of a 7th century pre-Colombian pyramid.

Though it concentrates on the Moche Culture, permanent collections at the museum include the world's largest collection of ceramics, the largest collection of jewelry used by many notable rulers of pre-Columbian Peru. It comprises an impressive collection of crowns, earrings, nose ornaments, garments, masks and vases, finely wrought in gold and decorated with semi-precious stones and the erotic gallery.

San Borja

The upscale district of San Borja is the best planned of the Lima Districts. Principally a residential district San Borja is home to numerous parks and colleges. There are several national agencies based here including the Ministries of Education, Mines and Defense as well as the National Library and the National Museum home to a remarkable presentation of Pre-Colombian art and artifacts.

There are archaeological sites within the San Borja city limits Huaca San Borja and Huaca Limatambo and the Suco River the pre-Incan irrigation canal. The Huaca San Broja was built by the Ichma culture and is open for visitors while the Huaca Limatablo is closed for research purposes.

San Isidro

The San Isidro district is an interesting mix of business and agricultural - modern and historic. San Isidro is the financial district of Lima, but it is also home to many gardens and parks. This upscale district has many exclusive stores, excellent restaurants and is home to the headquarters of 21 banks, 5 pension fund managers and 6 brokerage firms making San Isidro the financial hub of Peru and one of the most important financial centers in Latin America. In contrast to the busy pace of the financial world San Isidro is also the greenest district in Lima with its many parks, gardens and famous olive grove El Olivar which dates back to the founding of Lima.

San Isidro is home pre-Colombian and Colonial treasures as well. As you drive through the middle of the city you will encounter the large adobe pyramid of Huallmarca built during the era of the Lima Culture and later modified by both the Ishma and Inca Cultures. During the early years of the Spanish Colonization, the land in San Isidro including Hullmarca was deeded to Antonio de Rivera and became part of the Pan de Azugar Hacienda. It was de here on the Hacienda that Rivera along with Gonzalo Pizzaro who planted the first olive trees in an effort to avoid taxes on Olive Oil. What began as just three young trees over the years has spread into a grove of thousands.

The Hacienda was past between families and would later to be known as the Casa Hacienda los Condes de San Isidro when the Viceroy Manso de Velasco, Conde de Superunda, conferred the earldom of San Isidro on Don Isidro Gutierrez de Cossío in the 18th century.

In the 1920's the Hacienda owner created the San Isidro Urbanizing company and the area became part of Miraflores. In 1927 the Lima Golf Club and Hotel Country Club were built securing San Isidro as the affluent neighborhood of Lima. Finally in 1931, San Isidro was recognized as a separate city.

Today San Isidro is home to some of the best restaurants and stores in Lima. Visitors to the city can explore the city's past and present by touring the rebuilt pyramids and museum at Huallmarca, visit the Casa Hacienda de los Condes, play a round of golf at the Lima Golf Club and spend the night at the luxurious Hotel Country Club all while doing some shopping at its upscale boutiques.