Lima (Callao), Peru
Description
View cruises with Lima (Callao), PeruIn 1535, Francisco Pizarro labeled the open plains where Lima now stands as inhospitable. Despite the verdict of the great conquistador, Lima became the center of imperial Spanish power, a "City of Kings" where 40 viceroys would rule as the direct representatives of the King of Spain. With independence in 1821, Lima became Peru's capital. Near Lima, one of the world's most desolate deserts is home to the famed drawings of Nazca. These drawings inspired Erik von Daniken's best-selling book "Chariots of the Gods." With mysteries seeming to be part of Peru's history, perhaps these "drawings" are in fact "the largest astronomy book in the world."
Points of Interest
- Gold Museum
- Santo Domingo Convent
- Plaza Mayor
- Indian Market
- Pachacamac Ruins
- Peruvian Horses
- Larco Herrara
- Casa Aliaga
More about Lima (Callao), Peru Points of Interest
-
Gold Museum -
Discover thousands of Peru's most treasured gold, silver and copper artifacts, from pre-Inca jewelry to military objects and tools, as well as historic weaponry.
-
Santo Domingo Convent -
The oldest church and convent in Lima, its construction begani in 1540. It was later modernized to its present neo-Classical style in the 18th century.
-
Plaza Mayor -
The founding destination of the Historic Centre of Lima, an UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Plaza Mayor is lined with some of the city's most important buildings, including The Government Palace and the Cathedral of Lima.
-
Indian Market -
Negotiate your way through the lively Indian Market as you browse colorful souvenirs from all over Peru, including handmade alpaca sweaters, paintings, woodcarvings, Inca handicrafts and more.
-
Pachacamac Ruins -
Walk among the remnants of the Inca Empire at this centuries-old archaeological site comprised of temples, monuments, houses and pyramids.
-
Peruvian Horses -
Watch in awe as the famous Peruvian prancing horses dance from their stables at a cozy hacienda featuring beautiful gardens and rooms full of memorabilia, including tooled leather saddles.
-
Larco Herrara -
Admire the 45,000-piece collection of pre-Columbian art that is housed within the Larco Museum mansion. Built atop a 7th-century pyramid, it features enchanting gardens and a gold and silver gallery.
-
Casa Aliaga -
As America's best-preserved colonial mansion, Casa Aliaga has been occupied by the same family since 1535. This colonial house was delivered by Francisco Pizarro to his Capitan Jeronimo de Aliaga.
