Most people think of Peruvian culture as being synonymous with Machu Picchu and the Incas. However, there were advanced cultures in Peru before the Incas arrived, as can be seen in the impressive archaeological sites north of Lima.

Colonial Architecture in Lima

Although there are other Peruvian cities where one can see Spanish Colonial architecture, some of the best examples can be found in Lima. Of these, three of the most impressive are the Cathedral, the San Francisco Monastery and the Palacio de Torre Tagle.

Construction on the cathedral, located on the main plaza in downtown Lima, was begun in 1535. Francisco Pizarro himself laid down the first stone of the original structure. Since then, it has gone through a number of reconstructions but maintains the original colonial baroque architecture. The vaults were rebuilt more than once, twice due to earthquake damage.

Right near the cathedral, the San Francisco Monastery … READ MORE -->