Capital City
Lima
The capital city, located along the Pacific Ocean, boasts a captivating history shaped by centuries of migrations and cultural exchanges, rendering it the vibrant cultural heart of the nation. With its roots tracing back to the ancient civilizations of Lima, Huari, Ichma, and the Inca, which have thrived on this territory since 200 A.D., Lima’s colonial journey began in 1535 when it was christened “Ciudad de Reyes,” serving as the epicenter of the Spanish viceroyalty in South America.
The outcome is a city of profound historical significance, featuring a prized historic center that has earned UNESCO World Heritage status. Lima has emerged as a bustling hub of contemporary commerce, offering a juxtaposition of ancient charm and modern vitality. Additionally, Lima has proudly earned the esteemed title of the gastronomic capital of the Americas. This culinary distinction is a quintessential aspect of Lima’s contemporary identity. Here, a multitude of restaurants, cozy “huariques,” and distinctive bars come together to present a captivating array of flavors, each contributing to the city’s unique tapestry of culinary experiences. Lima’s evolving gastronomic landscape showcases the city’s continual reinvention, its own identity and fostering a rich expression of culture and cuisine.
Capital City
Lima
Cultural tour: city tour + Larco Museum and Aliaga House: Complete a panoramic view of the history of an ancient city where modernity and mud pyramids coexist. We start in colonial Lima, visiting the surroundings of the Main Square: the Government Palace, the Cathedral, the City Hall and Archbishop’s Palaces. We will visit the wonderful Aliaga House, this extraordinary building is a journey through time, culture, design and architecture of Lima. Continue to the splendid San Martin Square, built to commemorate the initial centennial of Peruvian independence. Departing the historic downtown Lima, we embark on a captivating voyage into the millennia-old history of Peru at the Rafael Larco Herrera Archaeological Museum. Housed within an opulent 18th-century viceroyal mansion.
Local Market and Urban Kitchen: Embark on a culinary journey to the world’s top restaurant. Start at the bustling Surquillo market in Miraflores, a diverse food haven known for sourcing ingredients from across Peru. Then, visit Ignacio Barrios’s culinary set in a historic Miraflores residence for a hands-on cooking class to delve into the fundamentals of Peruvian cuisine.
Callao Monumental and Gastronomy: The port of Callao is Peru’s main maritime gateway, historically essential during colonial times for trade and making Lima prosperous. Chucuito, once “Pitipiti,” dates back to 1537, serving as a storage hub for goods from Callao. It was a thriving fishing community and later welcomed Italian immigrants in the 20th century. Today, Chucuito offers tranquil streets, a scenic boardwalk, and charming wooden houses reflecting past architectural styles, providing a glimpse into history. Callao Monumental is a cultural initiative in the district of Callao, Peru, focused on promoting and revitalizing culture, art, and the preservation of historical heritage. This project has transformed urban spaces into venues for cultural events, art exhibitions, and cultural activities, enriching the cultural life in the region and fostering cultural tourism.
Callao La Punta: La Punta, in Callao, started as a fishing community but transformed into an upscale district in the early 20th century. It’s known for its well-preserved architecture, including the Rospigliosi House and Grace House. La Punta offers three bustling beaches with picturesque boardwalks for seaside strolls.
Panoramic Miraflores and Barranco: Lima, a city with a history shaped by migration, represents Peru’s diverse culture. It’s a blend of regional traditions, cuisines, festivals, and vibrant communities. This metropolis, existing for millennia, harmoniously combines European influences with Andean heritage. Recent years have seen a renaissance in the historic center and the transformation of seaside districts like Miraflores and Barranco, known for their design and gastronomy. Lima’s beauty shines through its diverse facets, inviting you to immerse yourself in its multifaceted culture.
Barranco Walking Tour: Discover Barranco, Lima’s bohemian heart, a historic seaside neighborhood with charming streets, parks, and creative art galleries. Visit the Osma Museum, showcasing a Viceroyal collection in a splendid mansion, and immerse yourself in the artistic essence of this eclectic district.
Barranco, Art Galleries with Curator: Once a seaside resort, Barranco is now Lima’s bohemian and artistic center, teeming with art, design, and creativity. Galleries feature a diverse range of Peruvian artists, from established to emerging talents. Nestled in historic avenues by the Pacific Ocean, Barranco offers an immersive experience, with tours allowing exploration of exhibitions and visits to the workshops of contemporary artists and designers who call this district their creative haven.
