Page 93 iGap Travel Guide 2022
P. 93
iGap Travel Guide | The Americas
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Lima is an archaeological metropolis. Founded in 1535 by Francisco Pizarro, the capital city is home to
a fabulous concoction of colonial architecture and glossy modernity. As holiday destinations go, Lima
has it all. From beautiful old buildings, an abundance of museums and a large beach coastline, Lima
caters to every traveller and every mood. Home to one-third of Peru’s population, this is the heart of
Peru’s metropolitan landscape and an integral visit to reach an understanding of its history. Thanks to
its central airport, Lima is accessible from all over the world, but at just a 73.6km drive from Huaral, and
66.6km from San Bartolomé, it is also an ideal day trip from any of these destinations.
Head to Museo Larco for an immersion into all aspects
of Peruvian history. This is a privately owned museum
in an 18th century royal building in the Pueblo Libre
district. Boasting a chronological overview of 4,000
years of pre-Columbian history, the museum is a key
visit for grasping Peru’s elaborate history. It features
ancient artefacts, paintings, tapestries and sculptures
and is particularly well known for its pre-Columbian
erotic pottery. This section of the museum is not family
friendly and so is separate from the other exhibitions.
The museum boasts a beautiful eating area and
garden, an ideal place for lunch.
Next, take a taxi to Lima’s historic centre, otherwise
known as the City of Kings. Located in the Rimac Valley,
this was the political, religious and economic capital of
the Viceroyalty of Peru, as well as the most important
Spanish dominion in South America. The entire centre
is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, making it the perfect
location for pondering the history and culture. Of the
many archaeologically fascinating buildings in this
area, check out the Iglesia de Santo Domingo. Built
in the 16th century, this pink church is renowned for
being the final resting place of three Peruvian saints.
The convent has many colourful courtyards adorned
with baroque paintings, Spanish tiles and a great view
of the city can be enjoyed from the church’s steeple.
The Parque de la Reserva is best experienced after
nightfall. Originally opened to commemorate the
civilians who defended Lima in the War of the Pacific,
the park has now turned into a magical land of lights
and water. It holds the Guinness World Record for the
biggest complex of fountains, boasting 13 magnificent
monument-like formations. But, after dark the park
transforms into a stage as a mystical show of shooting
water, laser lights and traditional Peruvian music
erupt to give a unique and interactive experience.
Watch the water dance along as if it’s got a mind of its
own, inviting children to come and have a splash and
bursting with colourful streams against the night’s sky.
Fabio mazzarotto / Shutterstock.com
93
Lima is an archaeological metropolis. Founded in 1535 by Francisco Pizarro, the capital city is home to
a fabulous concoction of colonial architecture and glossy modernity. As holiday destinations go, Lima
has it all. From beautiful old buildings, an abundance of museums and a large beach coastline, Lima
caters to every traveller and every mood. Home to one-third of Peru’s population, this is the heart of
Peru’s metropolitan landscape and an integral visit to reach an understanding of its history. Thanks to
its central airport, Lima is accessible from all over the world, but at just a 73.6km drive from Huaral, and
66.6km from San Bartolomé, it is also an ideal day trip from any of these destinations.
Head to Museo Larco for an immersion into all aspects
of Peruvian history. This is a privately owned museum
in an 18th century royal building in the Pueblo Libre
district. Boasting a chronological overview of 4,000
years of pre-Columbian history, the museum is a key
visit for grasping Peru’s elaborate history. It features
ancient artefacts, paintings, tapestries and sculptures
and is particularly well known for its pre-Columbian
erotic pottery. This section of the museum is not family
friendly and so is separate from the other exhibitions.
The museum boasts a beautiful eating area and
garden, an ideal place for lunch.
Next, take a taxi to Lima’s historic centre, otherwise
known as the City of Kings. Located in the Rimac Valley,
this was the political, religious and economic capital of
the Viceroyalty of Peru, as well as the most important
Spanish dominion in South America. The entire centre
is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, making it the perfect
location for pondering the history and culture. Of the
many archaeologically fascinating buildings in this
area, check out the Iglesia de Santo Domingo. Built
in the 16th century, this pink church is renowned for
being the final resting place of three Peruvian saints.
The convent has many colourful courtyards adorned
with baroque paintings, Spanish tiles and a great view
of the city can be enjoyed from the church’s steeple.
The Parque de la Reserva is best experienced after
nightfall. Originally opened to commemorate the
civilians who defended Lima in the War of the Pacific,
the park has now turned into a magical land of lights
and water. It holds the Guinness World Record for the
biggest complex of fountains, boasting 13 magnificent
monument-like formations. But, after dark the park
transforms into a stage as a mystical show of shooting
water, laser lights and traditional Peruvian music
erupt to give a unique and interactive experience.
Watch the water dance along as if it’s got a mind of its
own, inviting children to come and have a splash and
bursting with colourful streams against the night’s sky.
Fabio mazzarotto / Shutterstock.com
