Plaza de Armas

Introduction

Plaza de Armas (Plaza Mayor) of Lima is the historic center and birthplace of Peru's capital. Founded in 1535 by conquistador Francisco Pizarro, with a central bronze fountain, surrounded by the Cathedral, Government Palace, Archbishop's Palace and City Hall, and as the core of Lima's World Heritage historic center, it is Peru's most important colonial square and the starting point of Lima's history. Planned by Pizarro in 1535 — "Plaza de Armas" was the standard central square of Spanish colonial cities, surrounded by the most important buildings. A 1650 bronze fountain stands at center. To the east is the Cathedral of Lima (1535-1772) — Pizarro is buried here; to the north the Government Palace (presidential) — daily changing of the guard at noon; to the south the Archbishop's Palace and City Hall. The square and surrounding buildings are part of the "Historic Centre of Lima" World Heritage (1991). At night, lights illuminate the facades — a pleasant time to stroll. Visiting to feel 500 years of Peruvian history at Pizarro's colonial square is a solemn, historic experience in Lima.

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