Lima

Lima
Name	Lima
Settlement type	Capital city
Coordinates	12, 03, S, 77...
Subdivision type	Country
Subdivision name	Peru
Subdivision type1	Province
Subdivision name1	Lima Province
Established title	Founded
Established date	January 18, 1535
Founder	Francisco Pizarro
Government type	Metropolitan Municipality
Leader title	Mayor
Leader name	Rafael López Aliaga
Area total km2	2672
Elevation m	154
Population total	9,674,755
Population as of	2023
Population density km2	auto
Timezone	PET
Utc offset	-5

Lima. Founded by Spanish conquistador Francisco Pizarro on January 18, 1535, as the Ciudad de los Reyes, it became the capital of the Viceroyalty of Peru and the most important city in South America for centuries. Today, it is the political, cultural, financial, and commercial heart of the nation, a sprawling metropolis nestled in the valleys of the Chillón, Rímac, and Lurín Rivers, overlooking the Pacific Ocean. The city is renowned for its rich colonial architecture, vibrant culinary scene, and numerous pre-Columbian archaeological sites.

History

The area was inhabited by indigenous cultures such as the Ichma before being incorporated into the Inca Empire. Following the Spanish conquest of the Inca Empire, Francisco Pizarro officially founded the city, which quickly became the seat of the powerful Viceroyalty of Peru, administering much of the continent from the Plaza Mayor. It survived threats like the Battle of Lima during the War of the Pacific and grew dramatically in the 20th century through migration from the Andes following events like the Internal conflict in Peru. Key historical institutions include the National University of San Marcos, the oldest in the Americas, and the Inquisition tribunal.

Geography and climate

The city is located in the central coastal part of the country, primarily on a flat alluvial plain, with the urban area extending into valleys and foothills. It borders the Pacific Ocean to the west and is flanked by the steep slopes of the Andean foothills. The unique climate is classified as a subtropical desert, heavily influenced by the cold Humboldt Current, resulting in high humidity, persistent coastal fog known as garúa, and minimal rainfall despite its location. This arid environment contrasts sharply with the nearby Lomas de Lachay ecosystem.

Government and politics

As the capital, it houses the nation's principal government institutions, including the Government Palace, the Congress, and the Palace of Justice. The city's local administration is led by the Metropolitan Municipality of Lima and its mayor, with jurisdiction over the Lima Province. The broader metropolitan area encompasses the adjacent Constitutional Province of Callao, a key port district with its own regional government. The city has been the focal point of major political events, from the declaration of independence by José de San Martín to periods of unrest.

Economy

It is the country's dominant economic and industrial hub, generating a significant portion of Peru's GDP. Key sectors include finance, commerce, manufacturing, and the thriving services industry. The Port of Callao is one of South America's most important maritime terminals, handling the majority of the nation's import and export trade. The city is headquarters to major corporations like Banco de Crédito del Perú and the Lima Stock Exchange, and its economy benefits from industries such as textile manufacturing and food processing.

Demographics and culture

The population is a vast mosaic of ethnicities, including Mestizos, Indigenous, European, African, and Asian communities, the latter with significant influence from Chinese and Japanese immigration. This diversity is reflected in its world-famous gastronomy, pioneered by chefs like Gastón Acurio, and cultural expressions such as Marinera dance and Criollo music. Major cultural institutions include the Gran Teatro Nacional, the Museum of Art of Lima, and the National Library of Peru.

Landmarks and tourism

The Historic Centre of Lima, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, features monumental architecture like the Cathedral, the Convent of San Francisco with its catacombs, and the Torre Tagle Palace. Pre-Columbian sites such as the Huaca Pucllana adobe pyramid sit within modern districts. Key museums include the Larco Museum and the National Museum of Archaeology, Anthropology, and History of Peru. Popular coastal areas include the Miraflores district with its Parque del Amor and the Bohemian district of Barranco.

Category:Capitals in South America Category:Populated places established in 1535 Category:1535 establishments in the Spanish Empire