Lima is the capital and largest city of Peru. It is located in the valleys of the Chillon, Rimac and Lurin rivers on a coast overlooking the Pacific Ocean. It forms a contiguous urban area with the seaport of Callao.
The word Lima comes from the word Rimac, which in quechua, the official language in the Inca empire, means hablador or talkative. The city was largely rebuilt after earthquakes in 1687 and 1746.
Lima is the main gateway to Peru, a major city bustling with living history and movement. It is an ethnic melting pot, featuring pre Hispanic, colonial and modern elements. The metropolis is also surrounded by every aspect of Nature the sea, islands, mountains, desert and plant life.
Its various quarters feature an active nightlife and well endowed cultural scene, as well as plentiful public transport and non stop activities, a city of more than 8 million souls.
Main attractions of the city include the Government Palace, the Cathedral and the Municipal Palace are located around the square. Churches and Monasteries, these churches house the mortal remains of the local saints, gorgeous sculptures, wood carvings, and other pictorial work of inestimable value.
Museums and Mansions which some of these buildings exhibit beauty Colonial architecture. As a whole, the group gives the visitor a complete view of the history of this country, from Inca times to our days. These buildings also hold millenary pieces of pottery, textiles, gold and silver pre Hispanic work, Colonial and Republican work in silver.
Archaeological Sites, such as Huallamarca and Pucllana. District of Miraflores it is modern and has a daily intense commercial, cultural and artistic activity. Site where many discotheques, restaurants, and casinos are located. The Green Coast is a row of beaches that crosses six districts. Sea lovers, swimmers, surfers.
Lima is not the most attractive of cities and arriving at the airport to the sight of crowds of people outside offering taxi and hotel services can be a shock to most tourists who are expecting pretty little Andean villages and Inca ruins.
The climate doesnt help either, with Lima being covered in a blanket of low cloud except for the months of January and February when the sun shines. However Lima does have some redeeming features, notably its many interesting museums and excellent restaurants and cafes.
Lima also has a good selection of accommodation at prices to suit most budgets. See for yourself.
