During the breaks of the dynamic Peru Travel Mart 2024, we had the opportunity to explore some of the most emblematic sites of the Historic Center of Lima, a space that is being reinvented thanks to the recovery efforts led by the Municipal Program for the Recovery of the Historic Center of Lima (Prolima). This project aims to preserve and enhance the heritage of one of the most iconic cities in Latin America.

Lima, the capital and largest city of Peru, was founded in 1535 by Spanish conqueror Francisco Pizarro and has been known by many names throughout its rich history, but the one that endures the most is "City of Kings." Since 1972, its Historic Center has been considered Cultural Heritage of the Nation, and in 1991, it was included in the UNESCO World Heritage list. This recognition not only highlights its cultural and architectural value but also Lima's commitment to preserving its historical legacy.

Prolima, the entity responsible for the recovery of the Historic Center of Lima, is leading a comprehensive effort to restore monuments, churches, convents, and public spaces, returning the city to its colonial splendor. This ambitious project includes enhancing buildings from the viceroyalty and republican eras, thus revitalizing the authentic and varied essence that characterizes this area of the Peruvian capital.

Lucrecia Lafora, Director of the Lima City of Kings Brand (Prolima), emphasizes the importance of this work: "The Historic Center of Lima houses a wide variety of tourist attractions, from churches and convents to galleries and squares. The idea is for visitors to find a wealth of architectural and historical beauty in this space. The buildings are being recovered, respecting how they were in the past, from colonial Lima to republican Lima."

A journey through history and Creole culture
Among the highlighted places we visited is the Ignacio Merino Art Gallery, a space that showcases a rich collection of works by Peruvian artists. Here, visitors can enjoy collections by Pancho Fierro, which illustrate the customs of the colonial era, including figures of the famous "tapadas limeñas," women who covered almost their entire faces as part of a tradition that became a symbol of old Lima.

Another point of interest is the Rosa Mercedes House of Creole Culture, a restored gem that celebrates the evolution of Creole culture in Peru. This space offers an interactive experience that allows visitors to learn more about mestizaje and local traditions, including the creation of instruments such as the cajón peruano, which has left an indelible mark on the country's music and folklore.

Additionally, the emblematic San Martín Square, surrounded by neoclassical-style buildings, stands out as an example of the ongoing effort to conserve and restore Lima's architectural heritage. This square and its surroundings bear witness to the meticulous and detailed work carried out by the Planning, Recovery, and Maintenance Management of the Historic Center, following a master plan projected until 2035.

Lima is not only positioning itself as a relevant international tourist destination but is also consolidating its identity as a city that respects and celebrates its past. With the dedication and vision of Prolima and the Lima City of Kings Brand, the Peruvian capital is ready to welcome visitors from around the world, offering an authentic experience that combines its historical richness with a vibrant urban life.