Plaza Mayor de Lima

Overview

Plaza Mayor (formerly Plaza de Armas) is the founding center of Lima, established by Francisco Pizarro in 1535. Surrounded by the Cathedral, the Government Palace, the Archbishop's Palace, and the Municipal Palace, it remains the ceremonial heart of Peru's capital.

Highlights

• Bronze Fountain: The central fountain, installed in 1651, is the plaza's oldest surviving element.
• Changing of the Guard: The presidential guard ceremony takes place daily at noon at the Palacio de Gobierno.
• Colonial Architecture: The surrounding buildings with their distinctive wooden balconies represent Lima's finest colonial streetscape.

History

Pizarro personally laid out the plaza in January 1535 as the center of the new Spanish colonial capital. It has witnessed every major event in Peruvian history, from viceregal ceremonies to independence celebrations. The UNESCO inscription of Lima's historic center in 1988 recognized the plaza as its anchor.

Visitor Tips

• Morning Visit: Arrive early for the best light for photography and smaller crowds.
• Combine: Walk from here to the San Francisco Monastery and the Rímac district across the bridge.
• Duration: 30–45 minutes.