Francisco Pizarro founded the city of Lima in 1535 at a site considered at the time difficult, inhospitable, with hardly any rainfall, and with many earthquakes. But it offered a fast getaway capacity if the natives attacked. But that city grew and eventually became the political and military capital of South America, seeing the reigns of 40 viceroys. In the year 1821, it was declared capital of the now independent Peru.
The City Square or Plaza Mayor has been the place of power since the inception of the city, and is an attractive, lovely park. Almost in its center, we found this lovely fountain, constructed in 1651, and considered therefore the oldest water fountain of the New World. Surrounded by great masses of colorful flowers, it is a favorite meeting place for Limenians. The Lima Cathedral, in the background, was first built in 1535, and has been through many earthquakes and reconstructions. Only one original chapel remains. It is dedicated to the Virgin of Evangelization, and her image was a gift from the Spanish king Charles V.
Today we also visited the house that Capt. Jeronimo de Aliaga built, right next to the house that Pizarro had built for himself. Today it is a house/museum, where seventeen generations of the Aliaga family have lived. We also visited the cathedral, where the human remains of Pizarro lie. A short walk brought us to the San Francisco Convent or Franciscan Monastery, with a marvelous cloister and lovely gardens. Of course, a visit to Lima forces one to check out the Gold Museum, also called the Museo Mujica Gallo Foundation.
