In Lima the remains of the first Andean inhabitant can be found. They were hunters and harpoon fishermen from approximately 1,000 years ago. These remains were found in Chivateros, Ancón and Lurín.

Many years later, farming, ceramics and weaving became popular here. People lived in the valleys. They built temples and communities around grand ceremonial centers such as the Huacoy on the Chillón River; Garagay and La Florida on the Rímac River, Manchay on the Lurín River. They constructed finely ornamented temples with figures modeled in clay. The Lima culture began to take shape, especially in the area from Chancay down to Lurín. The painted adobe buildings of the Márquez on the Chillón and Cerro Trinidad on the Chancay are the most well known.

During this time, the Wari conquest occurred. Wari style ceramics and a local style known as Nievería took over. The population grew and the culture changed. Then the decline of the Wari culture happened and new cultures were born. The most notable of all of them is the Chancay. It was during the time of Chancay that immense urban centers, notable textile production, and mass-produced ceramics were developed. In the 15th Century the Incas arrived, occupying important sites such as the Pachacámac Sanctuary.

Francisco Pizarro founded Lima on January 18, 1535. Before becoming the capital of Peru, it was a first class religious place of worship. Lima reached its greatest splendor in the 17th century. Beautiful homes and palaces were built for the prosperous nobility and Lima became the richest colony.

During the Independence period, many of Lima's patriots shed their blood in the name of freedom. Among these were Don Pablo de Olavide, José Baquíjano y Carrillo, José Olaya and José Bernardo Alcedo, author of the National Anthem.

Tourism
Lima offers the tourist great attractions and the comfort a traveler seeks. The rich history of the city, its beautiful beaches, great museums, and delicious cuisine are just some of the delights you can find in the "City of the Kings".

The most notable events in Lima take place in August and November. The festivities of Santa Rosa de Lima are held in August. The procession of the Señor de los Milagros occurs in October.

The Magdalena and the Gold Museum should not be missed. Archeological ruins such as Pachacamac, Cajamarquilla, El Paraíso and Chilca are interesting too. Churches and colonial houses that you should also visit are the San Francisco, La Merced and the Palace of Torre Tagle. Other areas of beauty and interest include: Infiernillo, Chillón, Río Cañete Canyons, the thermal baths of Churín and numerous beaches within Metropolitan Lima.

Tours in Lima:
Information about tours in Lima.