What is the Capital of Peru? Lima
Capital City of Peru: Lima
City Overview
Lima, the capital city of Peru, is one of the most important urban centers in South America, both historically and economically. It is located along the coast of the Pacific Ocean, in the central part of the country, and serves as Peru’s political, cultural, and financial hub. As the largest city in Peru, Lima is home to over 9 million people, making it the third-largest city in Latin America after São Paulo and Mexico City. See Everhomedecor for other major cities in Peru.
Founded on January 18, 1535 by Spanish conquistador Francisco Pizarro, Lima became the capital of the Viceroyalty of Peru, and later, after Peru’s independence in 1821, it remained the capital of the newly established republic. The city’s location along the Rímac River and the Pacific coast provided strategic advantages, contributing to its development as a major port and center of commerce. Over the centuries, Lima has grown into a sprawling metropolis, mixing colonial heritage with modern developments.
Lima is a city that offers a fascinating blend of the old and new, with historical sites, museums, and vibrant cultural scenes, alongside contemporary high-rises, shopping malls, and gourmet restaurants. The city is also famous for its gastronomic scene, which is considered one of the best in the world, boasting a variety of Peruvian and international cuisines.
City Facts
- Area: Approximately 2,672 km² (1,030 square miles)
- Population: Around 9.7 million (2023 estimate), making it the largest city in Peru.
- Time Zone: Peru Time (PET), UTC -5:00. Peru does not observe Daylight Saving Time.
- Highest Mountain: The highest peak in Peru is Huascarán, located in the Andes Mountains, reaching 6,768 meters (22,205 feet). While Lima is a coastal city, Huascarán is significant for the country’s geography.
- Longest River: The Amazon River, at 4,345 km (2,703 miles), is the longest river in Peru, though it originates in the Andes and flows through the Peruvian Amazon region.
Major Landmarks in Lima
Lima is home to numerous historical landmarks, reflecting its rich colonial past and modern developments.
- Plaza Mayor (Plaza de Armas): The main square of Lima, Plaza Mayor, is surrounded by important buildings like the Government Palace, the Cathedral of Lima, and the Archbishop’s Palace. It is the heart of the city and the site of many political and historical events in Peru’s history.
- Government Palace (Palacio de Gobierno): Situated on the Plaza Mayor, the Government Palace is the official residence of the President of Peru. It dates back to the 16th century and is an architectural symbol of the nation’s governance. The changing of the guard ceremony here is a popular attraction.
- Cathedral of Lima: A stunning example of colonial architecture, the Cathedral of Lima is located on the Plaza Mayor and dates back to the 16th century. It houses important religious artifacts and the tomb of Francisco Pizarro, the founder of the city.
- Larco Museum: One of the most prominent museums in Lima, the Larco Museum showcases a vast collection of pre-Columbian art from the Nazca, Moche, Inca, and other ancient civilizations. The museum is housed in an 18th-century mansion built over a pre-Columbian pyramid.
- Huaca Pucllana: Located in the Miraflores district, Huaca Pucllana is an ancient Moche pyramid that was used for ceremonial purposes. It’s a fascinating archaeological site amid the modern cityscape, offering insight into the ancient cultures that lived in the region before the Spanish arrived.
- Miraflores District: Famous for its upscale shops, restaurants, and parks, Miraflores is one of Lima’s most vibrant districts. The Malecón, a cliff-top park along the coast, offers panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and is a popular spot for jogging, cycling, and paragliding.
- Barranco District: Known for its bohemian atmosphere, Barranco is a neighborhood filled with vibrant street art, colonial architecture, and lively bars and cafes. It is home to the Bridge of Sighs (Puente de los Suspiros), a popular romantic spot.
- Parque Kennedy: Situated in the heart of Miraflores, Parque Kennedy is a lively square surrounded by cafes, restaurants, and street vendors. It’s also known for its large population of friendly, stray cats that roam the park.
- Parque de las Leyendas: This large zoo and archaeological park in Lima showcases the country’s diverse flora and fauna while also housing several ancient Peruvian ruins, including Nazca and Moche remains.
- The Magic Water Circuit: Located in the Parque de la Reserva, this series of fountains and water displays is a must-see for visitors. It is the largest fountain complex in the world, recognized by the Guinness World Records.
Climate Overview
Lima experiences a desert climate with a mild, arid weather pattern, especially in the coastal region. The city enjoys warm temperatures year-round but is often cooled by the Humboldt Current from the Pacific Ocean, which brings fog and creates a unique coastal weather system.
The months of June to September are cooler and more overcast, while the summer months of December to March are warmer with less fog and more sun. However, Lima is one of the few major cities in the world with very little rainfall.
Climate Data for Lima
| Month | Avg Temperature (°C) | Precipitation (mm) | Sunny Days |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 27 | 0 | 11 |
| February | 27 | 0 | 11 |
| March | 27 | 0 | 11 |
| April | 25 | 0 | 10 |
| May | 22 | 0 | 9 |
| June | 20 | 0 | 8 |
| July | 19 | 0 | 7 |
| August | 20 | 0 | 7 |
| September | 21 | 0 | 8 |
| October | 23 | 0 | 9 |
| November | 25 | 0 | 10 |
| December | 26 | 0 | 11 |
Other Cities as Capital in the History of Peru
- Cusco (1533–1835)
- Time Period: Cusco served as the capital of the Inca Empire before the Spanish conquest and remained the capital of Peru after Spanish colonization until it was replaced by Lima in 1835.
- Arequipa (1835–1839)
- Time Period: After Lima, Arequipa briefly became the capital of Peru during the time of political upheaval and the establishment of rival governments following the War of the Confederation.
Country Facts
- Country Name: Peru
- Capital: Lima
- Population: Approximately 33 million (2023 estimate)
- Area: 1,285,216 km² (496,225 square miles)
- Largest City: Lima
- Currency: Nuevo Sol (PEN)
- Official Languages: Spanish, Quechua, Aymara (recognized regional languages)
- ISO Country Codes: PE (Alpha-2), PER (Alpha-3), 604 (Numeric)
- Government: Unitary presidential republic
- Religion: Predominantly Roman Catholic, with growing numbers of Protestants.
Lima, as the capital of Peru, is not only the country’s political and economic center but also a city with deep historical roots and a rich cultural landscape. From its colonial-era architecture and historical landmarks to its modern districts and vibrant food scene, Lima represents the fusion of Peru’s past and present. Whether you’re exploring ancient ruins, savoring world-class cuisine, or simply soaking in the coastal atmosphere, Lima offers an unforgettable experience for visitors and locals alike.
