Lima: From archaeological remains to colourful neighbourhoods

Lima, Peru's exciting capital, deserves to be better known. With its archaeological remains right in the heart of the city, its parks, its colonial and modern architecture, its museums and its outdoor activities, the capital is a real tourist attraction. Situated at the foot of the Andes mountains and surrounded by the sea, the city has a foggy climate for much of the year. But Lima is well worth a visit. Lively both day and night, the capital has preserved a fascinating city centre that bears witness to its rich past.

The colonial-style districts in the centre are listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and still boast some fine 16th-century mansions, such as the flamboyant Casa de Jarava. The Basilica and Monastery of San Francisco, built over catacombs, are superb with their yellow and white facades.

The development of Lima is astonishing: buildings are rising on the cliffs facing the Pacific Ocean, at the foot of the Andes mountain range. Beaches stretch out below these broad rock faces, much to the delight of tourists. Sports enthusiasts and thrill-seekers will be won over in this city, where surfing and paragliding are daily activities, with the added bonus of a marvellous view of the ocean and the capital.

Why go there?

The historic centre is definitely a must-see on your visit to Lima, with its rich pre-Columbian influences. Wander around until you come across the Torre Tagle Palace, a Spanish Baroque palace that became the mystery of Foreign Affairs, the Plaza Mayor and Plaza San Martin, or Lima Cathedral. If you have time, try to get to Chinatown, and stroll through the beautiful Exhibition Park. Lima also has the largest bullring in South America, the Plaza de Acho.

The city has a number of very interesting museums. These include the Archaeological Museum, the Museum of Popular Arts and Traditions, and the Museum of the Inquisition and Congress. The Bullfighting Museum and the Larco Museum, famous for its mummies and ancient works of erotic art displayed in a special gallery, are among Lima's main exhibition centres. The San Francisco catacombs are also an original idea for a day out in the Peruvian capital.