14 Centro Histórico Locations You Must See in Lima Peru

Lima’s Centro Histórico, known as the “Ciudad de los Reyes” or City of Kings, was founded by Spanish conqueror Francisco Pizarro in 1535. Located in the heart of this district, Lima’s Plaza Mayor is an iconic square that features political, administrative, religious and economic architecture from this era.

Here, amidst the grand Government Palace, the imposing Archbishop’s Palace, and the ornate Cathedral of Lima, you can truly feel the pulse of the city’s past. Today, from lively street performances to solemn ceremonies, Plaza Mayor is the perfect base to start your exploration through the city’s iconic neighborhood.

Location: Jr. Junín cdra. 1

Entry Cost: Free*

Hours: 24/7*

Dating back to 1535, the Lima Cathedral is a site with monumental architecture and a rich history.

Originally constructed using adobe bricks and wooden elements, the Cathedral has been rebuilt and restored many times over the course of its history. Today, the Cathedral is recognizable for its striking Baroque details and stony exterior, improvements that were made over time to help the structure better withstand natural disasters like earthquakes and fires.

Inside, vaulted ceilings and ornate altars house a wealth of Catholic artifacts and priceless works of art, including paintings by renowned artists such as Diego de la Puente and Marcos Zapata.

Buried within its hallowed walls lie the remains of figures from different periods, including Spanish conquistador Francisco Pizarro, who was involved in the establishment of colonial Lima in 1535. Additionally, the cathedral houses the final resting places of numerous archbishops and bishops who played significant roles in the history of the Catholic Church in Peru.

Location: XX3F+V59, Jr. Lampa

Entry Cost: 15 Soles*

Hours: Saturday – Thursday from 9AM – 8:45PM. Fridays from 9AM – 8PM.*

Originally founded in 1535, the Santo Domingo Convent is one of Lima’s most important religious sites.

The convent’s intricate architecture, a blend of Spanish colonial and Baroque styles, captivates with its ornate facades, vibrant archways and colorful tiles. Inside, Santa Domingo Convent is not only home to valuable Catholic art and relics, but it is the final resting place of three important Peruvian saints: San Juan Macías, Santa Rosa de Lima and San Martín de Porres.

Quite possibly the most popular historic home in Lima’s downtown area, Casa de Aliaga is spectacular. The same age as the city of Lima itself, Casa de Aliaga has been home to seventeen generations of descendants of Jerónimo de Aliaga y Ramirez.

With a mix of architectural styles and furniture, walking through the home is almost like journeying through almost 500 years of Lima’s history.

Location: Jr. Ucayali 363

Entry Cost: Free*

Hours: Daily from 7AM – 8AM. Holiday hours may vary.*

Constructed by Martin de Osambela, a merchant, banker, and ship-owner, the Casa de Osambela served as his family residence in the early 19th century.

Despite needing some restoration, Osambela completely took my breath away! Its chipping paint and cracked tiles make it a silent witness to Lima’s history, its weathered facade echoing tales of the city’s bygone eras.

With three levels and a rooftop “mirador” (look-out), Casa de Osambela also offers panoramic views of the incoming ships at Callao’s harbor. The mansion has a grand total of five wooden balconies that hang effortlessly over the sidewalk and that stand out against its blue-painted exterior. Internally, a pink patio filled with colorful tiles and approximately 40 bedrooms add to its architectural splendor.

Location: Jirón Conde de Superunda 298

Entry Cost: Free*. Guided tours are available to vistors (tips encouraged!)

Hours: Monday – Friday from 9AM – 12:45PM and from 2 – 4:45PM. Saturdays from 9AM – 12:45PM.*

The Church of San Agustín stands as a monumental testament to both the religious fervor and architectural prowess of its time. Built in the 17th century by Spanish colonizers, it is the oldest stone church in Peru and a prime example of colonial architecture in South America.

Probably the most recognizable feature of the church is its elaborate churrigueresque exterior, embellished with stone carvings of local flowers and fruits, angels and, of course, St Augustine.

While the church’s interior is not as impressive as its façade, I still recommend a quick a look inside, but only if you have time to spare. This is because La Muerte (Death), a wood sculpture created by 18th-century sculptor Baltazar Gavilán can often be seen on display inside if it is not otherwise traveling and it is definitely worth seeing.

La Iglesia de la Merced is a beautiful Roman Catholic church located on the busy Jirón de la Unión street.

One of the first Catholic masses in Lima took place in 1534 on a small piece of land where the Iglesia de la Merced now stands. Initially constructed in 1541, the church has been rebuilt many times over the years, with the majority of its current structure dating back to the 18th century.

La Merced has a wonderful granite facade, intricately carved in the Churrigueresque style, as was popular during Lima’s late Spanish Baroque period. Inside, the main area of the church is flanked by large pastel yellow and orange columns, leading up to a gold leaf-adorned ceiling.

In front of Gran Hotel Bolivar is one of the most beautiful squares in all of Centro Histórico, Plaza San Martin. It was instated in 1921 to celebrate 100 years of Peruvian independence from the Spanish.

At the Plaza’s center is a large statue commemorating General Jose de San Martin, a key former Argentinean military leader in Southern America who served as the Protector of Peru shortly after its independence. But my favorite part of the park, and a big reason for its inclusion on this list is the wonderful scenery.

Not only is the park flanked on all sides by intricate French-inspired architecture from the early 20th century, but it’s one of the few green spaces in Centro Historico and has the most lovely blooms, depending on the season.

Location: Av. Nicolás de Piérola cdra. 9

Entry Cost: Free*

Hours: 24/7*

If you’re a fan of vintage books and old interiors, one final spot to see in Centro Histórico is the library inside the Municipal Palace of Lima. While small, the architecture inside the space is quite stunning. Venture up the twisting wood spiral staircase to take in the city’s two-story collection of historic volumes, storybooks and publications. Among its treasures include an original “Charter of Foundation of Lima” signed by Francisco Pizarro and a rock from the moon!