A valley in the desert. A valley near the sea. In this unique geographical setting — inhabited since ancient times by various pre-Hispanic peoples — the Spanish conquistador Francisco Pizarro founded a city that would become the capital of a vast viceroyalty, and later the capital of an entire nation.
That is the origin of Lima — the “City of Kings”, the “thrice-crowned town”, and the metropolis of many cultures. Its Historic Centre preserves the grandeur of its colonial and republican mansions, churches, and plazas — a priceless cultural legacy for humanity.
At the heart of this Historic Centre lies a truly special and significant place: the Plaza de Armas, also known as the Main Square. Surrounded by iconic landmarks such as the Cathedral and the Government Palace, this urban space still echoes the foundational spirit of the modest town laid out by Pizarro in early 1535.
Lima was born in the Plaza de Armas. This is where its colonial history began. This is where Peru’s independence was proclaimed on July 28, 1821. This is where, for nearly 500 years, the country’s future has been shaped. So much history and meaning make it an unmissable destination.
The Plaza Mayor awaits you. Don’t miss the chance to visit, explore, and feel it — only then will you truly understand the essence of Lima: the city that blossomed in a desert stretching all the way to the shores of the Pacific Ocean.
Contents
- A Square Steeped in History
- A question: is it Plaza de Armas or Plaza Mayor?
- What will you see in the square?
- What to Do In and Around the Plaza de Armas
- Discover the Plaza de Armas with a Free Walking Tour
- Eating and Drinking During Your Visit to the Plaza de Armas
- Useful Info for Visiting the Plaza de Armas
- Photos of the attractions around Plaza de Armas
A Square Steeped in History
On 18 January 1535, conquistador Francisco Pizarro founded the “City of Kings” in the Rímac Valley. This historic act, carried out in territory once ruled by the local leader Taulichusco, was based on Spanish royal regulations known as the Ordinances for the Foundation of New World Cities.
These laws, issued by King Charles I of Spain, dictated that new cities must be laid out in a grid pattern resembling a chessboard. This design — drawn using ropes and rulers — had a starting point: the site chosen as the Plaza de Armas or Main Square.
From this perspective, it’s clear that Lima, now home to more than 10 million people, took the Plaza de Armas as the cornerstone of its urban development and expansion.
Following the city’s foundation, several key buildings were erected around the plaza: the Cathedral, Pizarro’s house (eventually replaced by today’s Government Palace), the City Council building (now the Municipal Palace), and the House of the Royal Judge (Oidor). A fountain was also added to provide water.
In colonial times, this open public space served many purposes — it was a market, a bullring, and a social gathering spot. Locals came here to collect water from the fountain, mingle with neighbours, or witness public executions, often for political or religious offences.
A question: is it Plaza de Armas or Plaza Mayor?
What’s the correct name—and which one is used more often? Is it wrong to say Plaza de Armas, or are those who call it Plaza Mayor mistaken? What do you think? Do you tend to cling to historical facts, or do you believe everyday use should take precedence?
In this “debate”, history tells us that in Spain, the main square of any city is called the Plaza Mayor. This name was established by the Catholic Monarchs through an ordinance issued in 1480—twelve years before the “discovery” of the Americas.
As a result, all cities founded by the Spanish in the New World were, by regulation, to have a Plaza Mayor.
At the beginning of the 19th century, as the winds of independence swept through the viceroyalties, both royalist troops and patriots held political events in the main squares. That’s when the term Plaza de Armas started to be used.
Mayor or de Armas? That question didn’t seem to trouble Ricardo Palma. The famous author of Peruvian Traditions referred to it as Mayor 48 times in his writings, and only once as Armas. Another interesting point comes from the book Lima, Walks Through the City and Its History.
On page 29 of that publication by Expreso, Editora Nacional S.A., it’s clearly stated that the original name of the city’s main square was Mayor, and that this term remained in use throughout the colonial era.
Today, most people in Lima call it Plaza de Armas, even though historical records show that Mayor was its original name. But cities are living, changing places—especially vibrant capitals like Lima. Everything evolves. And this historic square might just be your next destination!
What will you see in the square?
You’ll see—and feel—the echoes of the colonial past and the awakening of the republic in this square laid out on 18 January 1535, back when Lima wasn’t yet Lima but rather La Ciudad de los Reyes (The City of Kings). That’s the name used by those who remember and want to highlight the Spanish roots of the Peruvian capital.
Those roots remain deeply embedded in the Plaza de Armas, the original heart of urban life and a must-see attraction for visitors who want to discover the architectural wealth of Lima’s Historic Centre—declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.
Surrounded by colonial and republican buildings, your eyes will be captivated by the grandeur of the Cathedral and the Archbishop’s Palace—two powerful symbols of the founders’ deep faith. A faith that still lives in the hearts of most of Lima’s people, as seen in their many religious celebrations.
And just as God has His place in the square, so too does political and civic power—within the Government Palace (built over the house of Pizarro) and the City Hall (formerly the colonial Cabildo). Other significant buildings include the House of the Oidor and the Club de la Unión.
Don’t miss the Portal de Botoneros or the colonial fountain dating back to the mid-17th century. Situated at 160 metres above sea level, this fountain marked kilometre zero of the national road system starting from Lima—at least until just a few decades ago.
What to Do In and Around the Plaza de Armas
Walk, look around, take photos of the green areas, the fountain, the balconies and the colonial and republican façades. That’s the simplest plan—and “strategy”—for enjoying the Plaza de Armas and its surroundings without booking a tour or spending a penny.
The changing of the guard in the Honour Courtyard of the Government Palace (held every day at 11:45 a.m.) should definitely be part of this budget-friendly plan, which is perfect for travellers who like to explore tourist spots on their own. This approach has the added bonus of giving you full control over your time.
So take all the time you need to rest or “escape” to nearby spots like the Santa Rosa and José Olaya passageways, the Jirón de la Unión—a pedestrian street that leads to San Martín Square—, as well as Plaza Perú (formerly Francisco Pizarro Square) and the House of Peruvian Literature, located in the old Desamparados train station.
Discover the Plaza de Armas with a Free Walking Tour
If you’re the type who prefers exploring with a guide who tells you the stories, legends and quirky facts behind the places you visit, then join our free walking tour of Lima’s Historic Centre. This is the best way to explore the old city safely, confidently, and at no cost.
Book a free walking tour of Lima to discover the squares, streets, old mansions and churches of the “Grid of Pizarro”. The tour lasts around 2 hours and 30 minutes, and throughout the route a fully professional, 100% Peruvian guide will share with you fascinating details about what you’re seeing and snapping pictures of.
Want to know what people think of our tours? Check out the amazing reviews from past guests. You can also follow us on Instagram! And once you’ve finished exploring Lima, don’t forget to leave a tip for your guide—it’s always appreciated.
Note for Peruvians: These free tours are exclusively for inbound international travellers. Peruvian nationals are welcome to book the classic city tour of Colonial and Modern Lima instead.
Important to Know: The Plaza de Armas of Lima is not our meeting point. Visit our website for all the details.
Eating and Drinking During Your Visit to the Plaza de Armas
Lima is a world-renowned gastronomic destination, which means every outing is the perfect excuse to try the capital’s amazing flavours. Make the most of your trip to the Plaza de Armas by checking out these restaurants:
- Senior Blue – This is a great budget-friendly option, offering the perfect mix of good, nice, and affordable (in Spanish: bueno, bonito y barato). Prices range from S/10 to S/15 (about $3 to $5). You’ll find it at Pasaje José Olaya 145.
- Perú Gourmet – A restaurant tailored to tourists looking for comfort and flavour. Prices range from S/35 to S/70 (around $10 to $20). It’s located at Pasaje Santa Rosa 153.
If you fancy a delicious butifarra (a traditional Peruvian sandwich) paired with a great pisco sour, then Bar Cordano (Jirón Áncash 202) is the place to go. Located very close to the Government Palace, Cordano is a true classic of the Historic Centre and one of the oldest bars and restaurants in Lima.
Another iconic spot to try Peru’s national cocktail is the Hotel Maury bar (Jirón Ucayali 201), famed as one of the original homes of the refreshing pisco sour. It’s the perfect place to relax and wrap up your walking tour of this monumental city.
Useful Info for Visiting the Plaza de Armas
Where is it?
It’s located in the Historic Centre of Lima. You can reach the square through the following streets: Jirón de la Unión, Carabaya, Junín, or Huallaga.
Is there a set visiting time?
Technically, the plaza is open 24 hours a day. Access is free and unrestricted, although on certain occasions public entry may be limited. It’s a good idea to check in advance to avoid any surprises during your visit to the “heart” of the Historic Centre.
How do I get there?
Public buses do not enter the Plaza de Armas itself. You’ll need to walk 5 to 10 minutes from nearby streets, which is actually a plus—it gives you the chance to enjoy the stunning colonial and republican architecture of the area.
An economical, reliable, and safe alternative (except during rush hour) is the Metropolitano, the bus service that connects the city from north to south. If you’re in Chorrillos, Barranco, Miraflores, San Isidro, Lince, or La Victoria, wait for the Route C buses at the station closest to your accommodation.
If you’re in the north of the city (Carabayllo, Comas, Independencia, Los Olivos, and San Martín de Porres districts), take the Route A buses. In both cases, you’ll get off at the Jirón de la Unión station. From there, you’ll walk to your destination.
Keep in mind you’ll need a rechargeable card to use the Metropolitano (cost: S/4.50). You can purchase one at any station. The standard fare is S/3.20.
For more comfort, consider using a ride-hailing app such as Uber, InDriver, Cabify or Yango. You could also opt for a street taxi, but be sure to negotiate the price before getting in—it’s acceptable to haggle. If the driver doesn’t seem trustworthy, simply wait for the next one.
No hay excusas. La plaza Mayor o de Armas te está esperando porque más allá de las dudas sobre su nombre, existe una certeza: es un magnifico atractivo histórico, cultural y turístico. ¡Ahí nos vamos, ahí nos vemos!
There’s no excuse not to go—the Plaza Mayor, or Plaza de Armas, is waiting for you. Whatever you choose to call it, one thing’s certain: it’s a magnificent historical, cultural, and tourist attraction. See you there!
Photos of the attractions around Plaza de Armas
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