Lima, the capital of Peru, is located on the west
central coast of South America, 150 m/427 ft.a.s.l.
PLAZA DE ARMAS (Main Square): It was Francisco Pizarro,
the founder of Lima who determined the area for the
square, as well as the location for the Government House
(now Government Palace), the Cathedral and the Cabildo (Town
Hall). Today, this square continues to occupy the same
original area, in the middle of which there is a
splendid bronze fountain dating back to 1650.
THE CATHEDRAL: It was initially devoted to Our Lady of
Assumption. Almost entirely destroyed during the 1746
earthquake, the Viceroy Jose Antonio Manso de Velasco
Conde de Superunda had it rebuilt in 1758. Its interior
is remarkable for the intricate carving work of the
wooden seats of the choir, the heavily ornamented
"Inmaculada" chapel of baroque style and an ivory Christ
carved by Martinez Montaņez, a splendid gift from King
Charles V Entering the church and to the fight there is
a chapel which holds the remains of the conqueror
Francisco Pizarro. In the sacristy there is a museum of
religious art.
GOVERNMENT PALACE: Also known as the House of Pizarro
because since the foundation of Lima, this was the place
where the conqueror worked and lived until his death in
1541. It has magnificent halls such as the Salon Dorado
where important paintings are exhibited. It also has an
elegant area which is the official residence of the
President of Peru. It is recommended to attend the
change of guard which takes place daily at 11:45 am. at
the front esplanade.
