Lima is HUGE. Inhabited by more people than New York City, Lima is loaded with Neo-classical, Gothic, Baroque and Republican architecture. The historic center of Lima is a must-see. However, I found Lima a very different experience, both architecturally, and aesthetically from the rest of Peru.
Lima, UNESCO World Heritage Site
The historic center of Lima (Ciudad de los Reye) is a short cab ride from the Miraflores District and is a ‘must see.’ This is not just because it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s because it’s beautiful—both by day and by night.
Lima is H U G E
The population estimate for metropolitan Lima is slightly over 12 million. Compare that to New York City with 8.6 million. (As of July 2017).
To put that number in perspective, close to one-third of Peru’s entire population lives in the Lima metropolitan area.
Lima Districts
I should probably take a moment here to explain how Lima is organized. Lima is divided into 43 districts with the oldest (Carabayllo) created in 1821. The newest district (Santa Anita) was created as recently as 1989.
According to Wikipedia, 33 of the districts make up the urban area of Lima, while the remaining districts are sparsely populated, being rural, desert and mountainous areas.
Peru’s Provinces
To further boggle your mind, Peru is currently divided into 196 provinces which are grouped into 25 regions.
EXCEPT . . .for Lima which is its own province, and doesn’t belong to any of the regions.
Lima Was Never a Sacred City Center
As you explore Miraflores, and the historic center of Lima, take note of the architecture of the oldest buildings. Notice the foundations of the churches and cathedrals. They will look different from those of other cities you explore throughout Peru.
You see, unlike the cities of Cusco and Arequipa, Lima was designed–pretty much from the ground up–by the Spanish invaders.
In contrast, in traditional Incan centers like Cusco and Arequipa the Spanish systematically demolished Inca temples, and other of their sacred buildings. The Spanish then used the foundations of the Incan sacred structures for the base of their cathedrals, and government buildings
Lima Abounds with Churches
I was particularly taken in by Lima’s soaring cathedrals, and how the vibrant colors of each building played off the next.
There is much to see, so carve out plenty of time to wander up and down the side streets, and to explore the many nooks and crannies of each building that is open to the public.
Make sure to allow time to just sit down on one of the many steps or benches surrounding the city square. Listen and watch. It’s a great way to soak up the special rhythm and personality of a centuries old treasure.
Next time I’ll share recommendations for a few museums you’ll not want to miss. And the gold…..you have to see the gold!! Until next time, A Curious Trekker signing off!
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