Plaza Mayor of Lima
Lima
The Plaza Mayor of Lima, also known as Plaza de Armas, is the main public square in the historic center of Lima, Peru. Founded by Francisco Pizarro on January 18, 1535, it was designed following Spanish colonial city planning principles with a large, rectangular layout. The plaza is bordered by significant buildings including the Government Palace, Metropolitan Cathedral, Archbishop's Palace, Municipal Palace, and the Palacio de la Unión. Historically, it served multiple roles such as a market, bullfighting ring, execution site, and location for the Inquisition's autos-da-fé. The central fountain, inaugurated in 1651, remains a prominent feature. The plaza witnessed Peru's independence proclamation by José de San Martín in 1821, a pivotal moment in the nation's history. Over centuries, the plaza evolved architecturally and socially, with the addition of gardens, gas lighting, and tram rails in the 19th century, and neocolonial style porticos in the 20th century. Today, it stands as a vibrant symbol of Lima's colonial heritage and civic life, attracting locals and tourists alike.
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Tip: Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures. Purchasing tickets for nearby museums or guided tours in advance can enhance your experience. The plaza is accessible year-round, with special events often held on national holidays. Look for combined tickets or discounts for students and seniors at surrounding cultural institutions. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended to explore the plaza and its surroundings thoroughly.
Interesting facts
- •The first auto-da-fé in the New World was held here in 1573, marking the first heretic execution in the Americas.
- •The central fountain, built in 1651, is a preserved colonial-era landmark and centerpiece of the plaza.
- •José de San Martín proclaimed Peru's independence in this plaza in 1821, a defining moment in South American history.
- •The plaza was originally multifunctional, serving as a market, bullfighting ring, and execution site during colonial times.
- •The plaza's layout follows the 1523 Spanish royal ordinances for New World city foundations, emphasizing a grid centered on the main square.
History
The Plaza Mayor of Lima was established on January 18, 1535, by Francisco Pizarro following Spanish colonial urban design laws.
Initially, it included a gallows and a water fountain, with the latter replaced in 1651 by the current central fountain.
Throughout the colonial period, the plaza was a multifunctional space used for markets, bullfights, executions, and the Inquisition's autos-da-fé.
The Metropolitan Cathedral was completed in 1622, anchoring the plaza's religious significance.
In 1821, the plaza was the site of Peru's independence proclamation by José de San Martín.
The 19th century brought public gas lighting, gardens, and tram rails, while the 20th century saw the completion of key governmental and religious buildings and neocolonial architectural enhancements.
Place Guide
Central Fountain1651
The iconic 17th-century fountain at the plaza's center, featuring a baluster and elevated bowl with eight water pipes and a city seal atop.
Metropolitan Cathedral of Lima1622
Completed in 1622, this cathedral dominates the eastern side of the plaza and is a masterpiece of colonial architecture and religious significance.
Government Palace of Peru1938
Located on the northern side of the plaza, it serves as the residence of the President of Peru and a key political landmark.
Archbishop's Palace of Lima1922
Completed in 1922, this palace is an important ecclesiastical building facing the plaza, showcasing neocolonial design.
Municipal Palace of Lima1944
Finished in 1944, the Municipal Palace represents the city's local government and is situated on the plaza's south side.
Contact
Phone: 912 672 341
