Exploring Lima’s Historic Center, Peru

In 1535 Francisco Pizarro founded the city of Lima, claimed for Spain. Lima is large and multifaceted, though one part which should not be missed is the historical center. It is an architectural dream filled with buildings from Pizarro’s day, forward. Begin in Plaza de Armas Lima where many gems exist amongst of slathering of yellow buildings. One translation of the word Lima actually means ‘yellow flower.’ Here is Peru’s Government Palace where the president lives (and Pizarro once resided), if you visit at the right time you can witness the changing of the guards. The Cathedral of Lima is here, built in 1535 with the first stone laid by Pizarro himself.

Note the fountain in front of the building, it certainly has some questionable characters around the base.

The Archbishops Palace is another noteworthy building in the square with a stunning double balcony.

Lima was dubbed the ‘City of Balconies’ because they were quite popular at the time. Another example of exceptional architecture is the Torre Tagle Palace, a pink mansion build in the 18^th century complete with another ornate balcony.

Further down the line, but worth witnessing is the San Francisco Church, pale yellow with a double tower built in the 1600s. A reason it draws a crowd is for the catacombs where 30,000 people were buried.

Just wandering around your bound to see incredible sights in the UNESCO World Heritage Site, which has so many buildings remaining from Spanish imperialism.

The historic center is very popular and crowded, so always be aware of your surroundings. There are many stores and restaurants in the district. The street food was interesting so we stopped to grab a drink, but to this day I still have no idea what is was. A woman was whipping up foam light as air, with a bit of stale beer at the base and a poof of cinnamon atop.

Do you know what I drank? If so, please tell! Either way it was strange and yummy, I’d recommend it if you chance upon the libation in the historic district!