The History of Barranco

History

By Christopher Minster

The village of Barranco was founded by early Spanish settlers and soon became known as a popular seaside resort. By the time Peru became independent, it was a thriving retreat for Lima's wealthiest families.  It was also a favorite for international families. Now it is an upscale district of Lima.

Barranco has a great deal of history. According to local legend, one night, a group of fishermen were lost at sea, enshrouded in Lima’s famous dense fog.  They prayed for salvation, and a luminous cross appeared, guiding them back to shore. The Ermita church was constructed on the site where the cross allegedly appeared, and since has become the preferred church for fishermen. Although the church was sacked by invading Chilean troops in 1881, is has been rebuilt and is an interesting site to visit.

Barranco was once known as "the city of windmills," as early settlers often used windmills to draw water from their wells.  In 1870, the famous "Bajada a los Baños," a series of stairways that leads to the ocean, was constructed, and has since become an important Barranco landmark. Nearby, lovers meet on the Puente de Los Suspiros, "the Bridge of Sighs."

In 1940, a strong earthquake hit the region and did a great deal of damage to Barranco. The town recovered, however, and rebuilt.

There are many architectural wonders in Barranco, most of which date from the Republican era. Check out the Casa Nash or the Casa Checa Eguren, both of which are fantastic examples of older architecture.

Today, Barranco is a romantic, bohemian, artistic district, known for lively nightlife.