Churches, Peru

The Cathedral of Lima, nestled in the city's historic heart, is a beacon of history and art. It's not just any building; it's the most iconic structure in Lima and a treasure trove of religious art. This grand cathedral also serves as the resting place of the Spanish conquistador, Francisco Pizarro. The cathedral's story begins in 1535 when Pizarro laid its foundation, envisioning a spiritual home for the new Spanish settlers. By 1540, the church opened its doors, and a year later, it gained the prestigious status of a cathedral with the formation of the Lima diocese. The cathedral's design is unmistakable, featuring two neoclassical bell towers that stand proudly alongside the main altar. Over the years, it has undergone several renovations, particularly in the 19th century, and following the 1940 earthquake, ensuring its resilience and beauty. Walking through its doors, you'll be treading the same path as four saints from the colonial era: Santa Rosa de Lima, San Martin de Porres, San Juan Macias, and San Francisco Solano. In a momentous occasion, Pope John Paul II graced the cathedral with his presence in 1985, marking a historic first, and returned again in 1988. The Cathedral of Lima is a fascinating blend of architectural styles, reflecting the city's diverse history. You'll find elements of neoclassical, baroque, and gothic design, each layer adding to its unique charm. If you find yourself in Lima, this cathedral is an absolute must-visit. It's not just a building; it's a living testament to Peru's rich and varied past. Beyond its walls, the vibrant Plaza Mayor awaits, offering a perfect spot to soak in the local culture and enjoy some authentic Peruvian cuisine.

Nestled in the heart of the city, this stunning 17th-century monument stands as one of the earliest examples of neoclassical architecture in the area. Crafted from "sillar," a unique volcanic stone, it boasts a timeless elegance that captivates visitors from around the globe. The intricate details carved into the stone tell stories of a bygone era, while its grand façade offers a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the city. As you wander through its historic halls, you can't help but feel a connection to the past, imagining the lives of those who walked these very steps centuries ago. Fun fact: the sillar stone used in its construction not only gives the building its striking white appearance but also helps keep the interior cool during those hot summer days.

Machu Picchu, this ancient Incan city, is a mesmerizing blend of temples, terraces, and water channels, all perched dramatically on a mountaintop. Crafted from massive stone blocks, these structures fit together seamlessly without a trace of mortar. Today, it's honored as a UNESCO World Heritage site, celebrated for its significant political, religious, and administrative roles during the Inca Empire. The name Machu Picchu translates to "Old Mountain," a nod to the citadel's majestic setting. Historians believe it was constructed in the 15th century by the Inca ruler Pachacutec. This awe-inspiring site was connected to the vast Inca Empire through the Qhapaq Ñan, the legendary Incan road network. The citadel is thoughtfully divided into two main sections: the agricultural area, with its iconic terraces, and the urban area, which served as the administrative hub. Standing at an average altitude of 8,047 feet, Machu Picchu is located in the district of Machu Picchu, within the Urubamba province, about 70 miles northeast of Cusco. For those with a spirit of adventure, the mountains of Wayna Picchu and Machu Picchu offer breathtaking vantage points for panoramic photographs of this stunning architectural marvel. Imagine capturing the sunrise as it casts a golden hue over the ancient stones, or witnessing the mist weave through the ruins, adding a mystical touch to your visit. If you're planning a trip, consider visiting during the early morning hours or late afternoon to experience the site at its most tranquil.

Ever imagined what it would be like to live right in the middle of a lake? The Uros people on Lake Titicaca have turned this dream into reality. Perched at a stunning 3,810 meters above sea level, they’ve ingeniously crafted floating islands made entirely from local reeds to house their communities. It's a lifestyle that's both fascinating and resilient, with boats as their main means of travel between islands and fishing as a way of life. Visiting these islands is like stepping into another world. You can join a tour to witness how the Uros live or, for a deeper connection, book a homestay with a local Uros family to immerse yourself in their daily routines. This isn't just a visit; it's a chance to experience a unique culture firsthand. While you're there, don't miss the chance to learn about the intricate craftsmanship of the reed boats, which are an essential part of their survival. The islands themselves are a marvel, constantly needing maintenance as the reeds naturally decay. It's a testament to the Uros' ingenuity and adaptability.

The Government Palace in Lima has stood since the city was founded in 1535, although it's taken on various forms over the years. Originally constructed on a Huaca, a sacred site of the chief Taulichusco in the Rímac Valley, this area was one of the few fertile spots, thanks to the indigenous irrigation systems. These systems made it ideal for supporting a larger population. Over the centuries, the Government Palace in the "City of Kings" has been rebuilt multiple times. The first structure, a two-story adobe building, was created by the city's founder, Francisco Pizarro, as his personal residence. After Peru became a viceroyalty in 1542, Pizarro's home transformed into the government palace. To this day, Pizarro’s coat of arms graces the main entrance. The current building, dating back to the 1930s, maintains a colonial style but incorporates older and newer elements. This is typical of Peru’s major buildings, which have been regularly damaged by earthquakes and subsequently renovated in the architectural styles of their times. You'll find the Government Palace in the Plaza Mayor, Lima's main square. It shares this exclusive space with other landmarks like the cathedral and the episcopal palace. The palace is easily recognizable by the large Peruvian flag that proudly waves over the entrance and the intricately forged fence that encircles the grounds. If you’re exploring Lima, make sure to witness the changing of the guard ceremony, which takes place at the palace. It’s a vibrant display of tradition and pageantry that offers a glimpse into Peru’s rich cultural heritage.

The Plaza Mayor, or Plaza de Armas as it was known until 1990, is Lima's oldest public square. Founded in 1535 by the conquistador Francisco Pizarro, this historic spot was originally the site of an indigenous settlement. Pizarro envisioned the main square as the heart of Lima, with all significant institutions strategically built around it. On the north side of Plaza Mayor stands the Palacio de Gobierno. This is the presidential residence today, but back in colonial times, it was Francisco Pizarro's house and later became the Palace of the Viceroys. Head over to the east side, and you'll find the majestic Cathedral of Lima, flanked by the impressive Archbishop's Palace. The Palacio Municipal claims its place on the west side, adding to the square's grand aura. During colonial times, Plaza Mayor was the buzzing economic hub of the city. Wealthy and influential immigrants, depending on their status, were granted the privilege to construct their mansions close to this central plaza. The arcades that line the main buildings, along with the quaint Pasaje Olaya and nearby streets, were once bustling with shops of every kind. For many years, the plaza was home to Lima's main food market, a lively scene of local trade and daily life. Today, the square still feels like the heartbeat of the city, where history and modernity blend seamlessly. Strolling through Plaza Mayor, you can almost hear the echoes of the past while enjoying the vibrant energy of present-day Lima.

This is a lovely city, with a very well preserved downtown, a Mediterranean climate, a ring of snow capped mountains, tons of history and it is the epicenter of Peruvian cuisine, which is fabulous and diverse. I stayed in the quiet residential section called Vallecito, which is a quiet older neighborhood, formerly very upscale and now kind of middle class, but safe and very pleasant.

Nestled a mere three miles from the bustling heart of Arequipa, Peru, the Arequipa Temple site offers a serene escape, perched near the entrance to the tranquil village of Carmen Alto. This enchanting spot is set on a bluff that rises gracefully from the Chili River, offering panoramic views of lush pastures and majestic mountain landscapes. The imposing silhouette of the Misti volcano adds a dramatic touch to the scene, creating a picture-perfect backdrop for visitors. Explore the village of Carmen Alto, where time seems to slow down, and discover charming local crafts and traditional Peruvian cuisine. The area is also known for its vibrant festivals, where music and dance fill the air, inviting everyone to join in the celebration. Whether you're seeking a peaceful retreat or an adventure-packed day, this location has something for everyone.

Constructed in 1580, this historic citadel evolved over the years to feature charming cloisters, lively plazas, quaint streets, iconic tiled roofs, and rustic cobblestone paving. It once functioned as a completely enclosed convent, providing a secluded haven for nuns from the city's elite families. Nestled in the heart of Arequipa, Santa Catalina Monastery is a mesmerizing blend of history and architecture. As you wander through its vibrant courtyards and serene passageways, you'll be transported to a different era. Don't miss the opportunity to explore its colorful walls, each telling a story of its own, and imagine the tranquil life that once thrived within these walls.

Machu Picchu is beautiful in every way! It was insane the amount of good reviews about this place and they are not wrong. Machu Picchu is also one of the least understood archaeological sites in the world. Built at the pinnacle of the Inca's power, these ruins are a magnificent example of the Inca's impressive stonework and craftsmanship.It is considered one of the wonders of the world. You can feel the good energy since you are in the little town of Machu Picchu. Is here where you can try the tipical food of Cusco-Peru, buy souvenirs and also go the bridge and add a patlock with your significant other!