Plaza de Armas

Location:
about two blocks south of the Río Rímac
Central Lima, Lima, Peru

City Plaza

By Kris Dreessen

Inca temples once stood here. Spanish conquistador Francisco Pizarro was assassinated here. Accused sorcerers were brutally punished around the square in the 17th century. Throughout history, the Plaza de Armas, or Plaza Mayor, has been a focal point of Lima, with its cathedrals, ornate buildings and government palace. Now, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Plaza de Armas spans four large blocks, with a park in the center. A bronze fountain with an angel perched on top blowing a trumpet is its centerpiece. It's also the oldest remaining structure, created in 1650.

On the north end of Plaza de Armas is the Palacio de Gobierno (governor's palace), which is now home to Peru's president and is open for free tours. Visitors can see a traditional changing of the guard (Monday through Saturday, at 11:30 a.m.), but guards are always on duty here if you just want a dose of presidential (and military) ambiance. Catedral de Lima is home to a religious museum and what are believed to be Pizarro's remains, which are encased in a casket. The Iglesia de Merced dominates another block and the main post office is right off the plaza. Several other historic buildings and churches are within a few blocks, including the San Francisco monastery and church. Catacombs are its claim to fame and open for tours. 

At night, hundreds of people stroll the park and sit on the church steps to experience the culture. There's also an information office here to get tips on the next sightseeing stop.

Travel Tips: A tour of the presidential palace is free but reservations are required through the Office of Public Relations, Jíron de la Unión, Plaza Pizarro. Call 51-1-311-3908.

Catedral de Lima is open Monday through Friday 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and Saturday 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Admission is $1.40 (4.50 nuevo sols) for adults and $1 for kids (3 nuevo sols). Call 51-1-427-9647