Lima travel
The city of Lima could well be described as a progressive interbreeding of races, cultures, architectures and arts, all different from each other, which have merged over time into a distinct cultural identity, which still dominates the city. city today. This means you'll be spoiled for choice between ancient temples built long before the Spanish conquest, beautiful colonial palaces, old quarters, nightclubs, dark taverns, empty beaches, and all kinds of idyllic locations.
History of the city
Before the arrival of the Spanish conquistador Francisco Pizarro, the region that Lima would later occupy was inhabited by many different peoples. These have followed one another over time, leaving many constructions as evidence of their existence. After the war against Chile in 1879, the city was sacked and devastated. A process of reconstruction ensued, which modernized the capital with grand avenues, parks, gardens, as well as cafes and other bohemian hangouts. The following decades were marked by a population explosion and a rural exodus, which forced Lima to develop in a haphazard way. However, the old city center and the Republican Avenues are still there to bear witness to the colonial past of this beautiful city.
The unavoidable
Plaza Mayor
The Plaza Mayor or Plaza de Armas, is the porthole of the city of Lima, and one of the main tourist attractions. Built in 1535, this bustling square was once the economic and cultural heart of Lima, filled with crowds gathering for religious celebrations, markets, and even bullfights. Today, this historic square provides a window into the city's vibrant way of life.
Kennedy Park cats
If you're a feline lover, take a walk through Kennedy Park in central Miraflores. It is home to about sixty cats, which has earned it the nickname "Cat Park". They are usually found napping under benches, on the sidewalk or in the grass. No one really knows how they got there.
Pucllana temple
The ruins of Huaca Pucllana are one of the few surviving from the pre-Columbian historical period in Peru. It is an adobe ceremonial center which would have been used for spiritual ceremonies and sacrifices. It is said to have been built around 500 AD, at the height of Lima's cultural history. It is incredibly located in what is now a residential area of the Miraflores district, which makes it very easy to access.
Explore the islands of Lima
If you need an invigorating break away from the big city, hop aboard a boat to tour the islands off Lima. Usual stops are the islands of Palomino, Cabinzas, and El Frontón, an island that once served as a quarantine stop in colonial times and later as a maximum security prison.
Attend a concert or music festival
Lima attracts an ever-growing number of major international music groups, so keep an eye on the concert schedule. Annual music festivals are gaining more and more popularity.
