This tour takes you through Lima’s Historic Center, where you can admire and learn about the numerous architectural relics that make up this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Begin in the magnificent Basilica and Convent of Santo Domingo, which was built during Lima’s foundation, and originally housed the San Marcos University – the oldest university in the Americas. Stepping into the convent is like stepping into the past.
The oldest chairs in the country sit in the chorus area, while the library – with its 25,000 books from the Dominicans, some of which were printed in the XV Century – is of incredible historic value. The Santo Domingo Convent was transited by all the major Saints of Lima, and currently houses the remains of San Martín de Porres, San Juan Masías y Santa Rosa de Lima. From here, cross through Lima’s Main Plaza – which contains the Government and Municipal Palaces – as you make your way towards the Lima Cathedral. The Cathedral is containing numerous religious art gems, and is considered an integral part of Lima’s history. 14 chapels inside reflects the catholic spirit of Lima. The firts chapel contain the remains of the spanish conqueror, Francisco Pizarro.
Our tour will continue through the modern districts of San Isidro and Miraflores. Two big pyramids, Huallamarca and Pucllana, of pre inca´s cultures have survived among buildings and houses. Our last stop will be at “El Parque del Amor” (Park of Love). A sculture of the famous peruvian artist, Victor Delfín, shows a couple in an infinite kiss. This park was inspired in Parc Guell of Antoni Gaudi in Barcelona. This is an excellent viewpoint of Lima´s Bay, Barranco and Chorrillos districts.