Peru
Lima
Welcome to Peru! Lima is a sprawling capital city where colorful colonial buildings sit just a short walk from cliffs that drop straight down to the Pacific Ocean. It's a place where centuries-old plazas and glowing modern fountains exist side by side.
Why is it famous?
Lima's Historic Centre is packed with beautifully preserved colonial buildings, ornate wooden balconies, and grand old plazas dating back hundreds of years.
The Miraflores district sits on top of tall seaside cliffs called the Costa Verde, with parks and walking paths running right along the edge.
How was it built?
Spanish conquistador Francisco Pizarro founded Lima nearly 500 years ago, choosing a site near the coast so ships could easily reach it.
Builders in the historic center used wood for many balconies and upper floors instead of heavy stone, since wood flexes better during Peru's occasional earthquakes.
Amazing facts
Lima's Plaza Mayor is surrounded by grand buildings including a cathedral with twin bell towers and the country's presidential palace.
The Parque de la Reserva is home to the Circuito Mágico del Agua, one of the largest fountain complexes in the world, with dozens of fountains that light up at night.
Quick facts
- Lima's Plaza Mayor is surrounded by grand buildings including a cathedral with twin bell towers and the country's presidential palace.
- The Parque de la Reserva is home to the Circuito Mágico del Agua, one of the largest fountain complexes in the world, with dozens of fountains that light up at night.
- Lima almost never sees rain — some parts of the city go years without a single drop — yet the coastal fog keeps everything cool and green.
- Because it hugs the coast, Lima stretches for miles along cliffs and beaches where surfers ride waves right below city neighborhoods.