Lima has some of the most stunning colonial architecture in the world, much of it clustered around the city’s Plaza de Armas. Follow our guide through Lima’s most impressive buildings that have stood the test of time.
Huaca Pucllana
Huaca Pucllana is an adobe and clay pyramid located in Miraflores. It’s also impossible to miss – in the upscale business district of Miraflores’, this ancient pyramid couldn’t be more prominent. Enjoy it during the day or at night from its spectacular onsite restaurant.
This mansion is widely considered to be the best example of colonial architecture in Lima. It was built in 1730 by José B. Tagle, the Marquis of Torre Tagle and treasurer of the Royal Spanish fleet. Among its notable features are its intricately carved balconies that are visible from the street. Currently, the palace is home to the Peruvian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and can only be visited with a private tour operator.
Building, Ruins, Historical Landmark, Archaeological site
Government Palace of Peru, Cercado de Lima
Located in Lima’s main square Plaza de Armas, the Presidential Palace is home to Peru’s incumbent president. The building stands on top of the ruins of Francisco Pizarro’s palace, which served as the first Spanish Viceroy Palace in Lima. Head to the palace gates at noon to watch the daily changing of the guards. Tours of the palace can be arranged, but must be made in advance.
Casa de Aliaga is the oldest colonial mansion in Lima, dating back to the 16th century. The house has been owned and lived in by the Aliaga family and their descendants since Franzisco Pizarro granted the land to Jerónimo de Aliaga in 1535. The building is a perfect example of the beauty of colonial architecture both inside and out.
The church and monastery were blessed in 1673 and completed in 1774, but have suffered damage over the years from earthquakes, only to be rebuilt and renovated in the 20th century. The church is recognized for its Spanish Baroque architecture and its catacombs located under the building.
The Archbishop Palace is located in La Plaza de Armas next to the cathedral. Representative of Spanish colonial rule, this religious symbol is intentionally present in the main square, as the church and Spanish colonial power went hand-in-hand. Constructions of the original Archbishop Palace began shortly after the foundation of Lima in 1535. The building is home to the Archbishop of Peru and the administrative headquarters of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Lima.
