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Lima, Peru

Introduction

Lima is the capital and largest city of the autonomous region of Lima in southern Peru. With a population of over 10 million people, it is one of the most populous cities in South America. The city has a rich cultural heritage, with influences from Spanish colonialism, indigenous culture, and African traditions.

Key Facts

  • Population: over 10 million
  • Area: approximately 4,000 km2 (1,553 sq mi)
  • Language: Spanish
  • Currency: Peruvian sol (PEN)
  • Climate: tropical monsoon
  • Average temperature: 23°C (73°F)

History

Lima has a long and complex history, with various empires rising and falling over the centuries. The city was founded by the Spanish in 1535 as a small settlement for the conquistadors. Over time, Lima grew into a major port city, becoming one of the most important cities in South America.

Historical Context

Lima has been shaped by several historical events and periods, including:

  • Spanish colonial period (1535-1821): The city was founded as a small settlement for the conquistadors and later became a major hub for trade and commerce.
  • Independence movement (1820s-1830s): Lima played a key role in the independence movements against Spanish rule, with many Peruvians fighting for their freedom.
  • Provincial capital (1859-1868): During the Bourbon Restoration, Lima was declared the provincial capital and became a center of politics, culture, and economy.

Significant Contributions

Lima has made significant contributions to various fields, including:

  • Architecture: The city is home to many iconic buildings, such as the Plaza de Armas, Cathedral of Lima, and Government Palace.
  • Cuisine: Peruvian cuisine, known for its bold flavors and ingredients, originated in Lima and features dishes like ceviche, lomo saltado, and ají de gallina.
  • Literature: The city has a rich literary heritage, with notable authors such as Mario Vargas Llosa, Juan Rulfo, and Isabel Allende.

Notable Attractions

Lima is home to many iconic attractions, including:

  • Plaza de Armas: A historic square that serves as the heart of the city.
  • Cathedral of Lima: A stunning Gothic-style cathedral built in 1535.

Metadata:

  • Model: llama-3.2-1b-instruct
  • Generation time: 2024-11-01 20:47:15
  • Keywords: Lima, Peru, wiki, history, attractions, facts
  • URL: https://worldbestplaces.com/places/lima_peru