{"id":70562,"date":"2026-05-09T12:51:16","date_gmt":"2026-05-09T17:51:16","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/freewalkingtoursperu.com\/?p=70562"},"modified":"2026-07-19T23:16:24","modified_gmt":"2026-07-20T04:16:24","slug":"the-founding-of-lima-history-events-peru","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/freewalkingtoursperu.com\/en\/blog\/the-founding-of-lima-history-events-peru\/","title":{"rendered":"Who founded Lima and why was it so important?"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"788\" height=\"489\" src=\"https:\/\/freewalkingtoursperu.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Quien_fundo_Lima_y_por_que_fue_tan_importante_10.webp\" alt=\"\u00bfQuien fund\u00f3 Lima y por qu\u00e9 fue tan importante?\" class=\"wp-image-70484\" srcset=\"https:\/\/freewalkingtoursperu.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Quien_fundo_Lima_y_por_que_fue_tan_importante_10.webp 788w, https:\/\/freewalkingtoursperu.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Quien_fundo_Lima_y_por_que_fue_tan_importante_10-300x186.webp 300w, https:\/\/freewalkingtoursperu.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Quien_fundo_Lima_y_por_que_fue_tan_importante_10-150x93.webp 150w, https:\/\/freewalkingtoursperu.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Quien_fundo_Lima_y_por_que_fue_tan_importante_10-768x477.webp 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 788px) 100vw, 788px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Lima<\/strong> is not just the capital of <a href=\"https:\/\/freewalkingtoursperu.com\/en\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Peru<\/a>; it is a city where every street whispers stories that transport you back to the early days of the colonial era. As you walk through its squares and wander along its streets, it is impossible not to wonder: who was behind <strong>its foundation<\/strong>, and why did this event change the course of <strong>South America<\/strong> forever?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In this article, we invite you to travel back in time and discover how the ancient <strong>\u201cCity of Kings\u201d<\/strong> was born, who the key figure behind this historic moment was, and how its creation transformed Lima into one of the most influential cities on the continent. It is a story that is not only told\u2026 it is experienced in every corner of the city, explaining why Lima continues to captivate those who visit it today.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Who founded Lima?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>To uncover this story, we need to go back to the moment when the Spanish first arrived in <strong>America<\/strong>. From the city of Panama, in <strong>1531<\/strong>, the <strong>first expeditions<\/strong> set out towards the territory of<strong> Peru<\/strong>, driven by ambition and the desire to explore the unknown. It was during the third expedition, led by <strong>Francisco Pizarro<\/strong>, that the Spanish landed on the shores of Tumbes and began their journey inland until they reached Cajamarca. There, one of the most decisive events in history took place: the capture of the <strong>last Inca ruler, Atahualpa<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This event, in <strong>1532<\/strong>, marked the official arrival of the Spanish in Inca territory and triggered a series of conflicts that would change the destiny of the continent. However, the mighty <strong>Tahuantinsuyo<\/strong> was already going through a period of great instability. A civil war between the brothers Hu\u00e1scar and Atahualpa had severely weakened the <a href=\"https:\/\/freewalkingtoursperu.com\/en\/blog\/ollantaytambo-living-inca-city\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Inca Empire<\/a>, leaving its foundations vulnerable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In the middle of this situation, Francisco Pizarro knew how to take advantage of the circumstances. With the support of his men, superior weaponry, and the impact of <strong>diseases previously unknown in America<\/strong>, he managed to overpower the Inca civilisation. Thus began a new chapter: the <strong>colonial era<\/strong>. Shortly afterwards, on 18 January 1535, the city of Lima was founded under the name \u201cCity of Kings\u201d. Today, as you stroll through its streets, you can still feel how this past remains alive in every corner of the city.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Francisco Pizarro and the conquest of Peru<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"788\" height=\"489\" src=\"https:\/\/freewalkingtoursperu.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Quien_fundo_Lima_y_por_que_fue_tan_importante_11.webp\" alt=\"\u00bfQuien fund\u00f3 Lima y por qu\u00e9 fue tan importante?\" class=\"wp-image-70488\" srcset=\"https:\/\/freewalkingtoursperu.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Quien_fundo_Lima_y_por_que_fue_tan_importante_11.webp 788w, https:\/\/freewalkingtoursperu.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Quien_fundo_Lima_y_por_que_fue_tan_importante_11-300x186.webp 300w, https:\/\/freewalkingtoursperu.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Quien_fundo_Lima_y_por_que_fue_tan_importante_11-150x93.webp 150w, https:\/\/freewalkingtoursperu.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Quien_fundo_Lima_y_por_que_fue_tan_importante_11-768x477.webp 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 788px) 100vw, 788px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Francisco Pizarro<\/strong>, born on <strong>16 March 1478<\/strong>, was a key figure in the <strong>fall of the Tahuantinsuyo<\/strong> between 1532 and 1533. This process was the result of several years of explorations, failed attempts, and strategic alliances.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>After the conquest of Mexico, stories began to spread about a wealthy territory in the south known as <strong><em>\u201cBir\u00fa\u201d<\/em><\/strong>. In 1524, Pizarro formed a partnership with <strong>Diego de Almagro<\/strong> and the priest <strong>Hernando de Luque<\/strong> to organise the so-called <strong>\u201cEmpresa del Levante\u201d<\/strong>. Pizarro took command of the expedition, Almagro was responsible for recruiting men and gathering supplies, while Luque provided the financial support.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>After two unsuccessful expeditions, during the third attempt in 1532, the Spanish finally reached what is now Peruvian territory. The circumstances worked in their favour. The Inca Empire had already been weakened by the <strong>civil war between Atahualpa and Hu\u00e1scar<\/strong>. The capture of Atahualpa in Cajamarca allowed the Spanish to strengthen their position.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>From this point onwards, Spanish control expanded rapidly. In 1535, Pizarro founded the city of Lima, initially known as the \u201cCity of Kings\u201d, which would later become the main political centre of the territory. Inca resistance continued in remote regions. The <strong>Kingdom of Vilcabamba<\/strong> remained active for almost 40 years until <strong>its fall in 1572<\/strong>. With this event, Spanish control was firmly consolidated and the <strong>Viceroyalty of Peru<\/strong> became fully established.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">The original name: City of Kings<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"788\" height=\"489\" src=\"https:\/\/freewalkingtoursperu.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Quien_fundo_Lima_y_por_que_fue_tan_importante_9.webp\" alt=\"\u00bfQuien fund\u00f3 Lima y por qu\u00e9 fue tan importante?\" class=\"wp-image-70480\" srcset=\"https:\/\/freewalkingtoursperu.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Quien_fundo_Lima_y_por_que_fue_tan_importante_9.webp 788w, https:\/\/freewalkingtoursperu.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Quien_fundo_Lima_y_por_que_fue_tan_importante_9-300x186.webp 300w, https:\/\/freewalkingtoursperu.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Quien_fundo_Lima_y_por_que_fue_tan_importante_9-150x93.webp 150w, https:\/\/freewalkingtoursperu.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Quien_fundo_Lima_y_por_que_fue_tan_importante_9-768x477.webp 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 788px) 100vw, 788px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Following the events that took place between 1532 and 1533, the process that would lead to the foundation of Lima began, culminating on <strong>18 January 1535<\/strong>. This moment not only marked the beginning of the colonial era, but also the birth of a name filled with symbolism: the \u201cCity of Kings\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This title was largely linked to its proximity to the <strong>Feast of the Three Wise Men<\/strong> (6 January), a coincidence that reinforced its religious significance. In addition, the name reflected the city\u2019s <strong>political importance<\/strong> as the capital of the Viceroyalty, honouring the Spanish monarchs <strong>Carlos I of Spain<\/strong> and <strong>Juana I of Castilla<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This symbolism was also represented in the city\u2019s <strong>coat of arms<\/strong>, where the <strong>Star of Bel\u00e9n and three crowns<\/strong> stand out as a clear reference to the Three Wise Men. Over time, the name \u201cCity of Kings\u201d <strong>gradually fell out of use<\/strong> and was replaced by \u201c<a href=\"https:\/\/freewalkingtoursperu.com\/en\/tours-lima\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Lima<\/a>\u201d, a term derived from the word \u201cR\u00edmac\u201d, referring to the river that runs through the city.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">The importance of Lima\u2019s foundation<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Following the foundation of the \u201cCity of Kings\u201d in 1535, Lima gradually established itself as the <strong>main political centre<\/strong> of the territory. Years later, in 1542, with the creation of the Viceroyalty of Peru, the city officially assumed the <strong>role of capital<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The choice of location responded to <strong>strategic considerations<\/strong>. At first, <strong>Jauja<\/strong> was considered as the seat of power. However, its high altitude and distance from the sea made communication and supply routes difficult. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Faced with these limitations, the Spanish chose the <strong>R\u00edmac Valley<\/strong> instead. This area offered permanent access to water, a more stable climate, and close proximity to the coast. It also provided a direct connection to the <a href=\"https:\/\/freewalkingtoursperu.com\/en\/blog\/how-to-get-from-callao-port-to-lima\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">port of Callao<\/a>, a key point for <strong>trade with Spain<\/strong>. Following this decision, the urban core that today corresponds to Lima\u2019s historic centre was laid out. From there, the administrative, religious, and economic functions of the viceroyalty were organised, consolidating Lima as the <strong>centre of colonial power in South America<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Political centre of the viceroyalty of Peru<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"788\" height=\"489\" src=\"https:\/\/freewalkingtoursperu.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Quien_fundo_Lima_y_por_que_fue_tan_importante_8.webp\" alt=\"\u00bfQuien fund\u00f3 Lima y por qu\u00e9 fue tan importante?\" class=\"wp-image-70476\" srcset=\"https:\/\/freewalkingtoursperu.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Quien_fundo_Lima_y_por_que_fue_tan_importante_8.webp 788w, https:\/\/freewalkingtoursperu.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Quien_fundo_Lima_y_por_que_fue_tan_importante_8-300x186.webp 300w, https:\/\/freewalkingtoursperu.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Quien_fundo_Lima_y_por_que_fue_tan_importante_8-150x93.webp 150w, https:\/\/freewalkingtoursperu.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Quien_fundo_Lima_y_por_que_fue_tan_importante_8-768x477.webp 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 788px) 100vw, 788px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>From its foundation in 1535, Lima gradually became the main centre of control within the territory. In 1542, with the creation of the Viceroyalty of Peru by <strong>Carlos I of Spain<\/strong>, the city was officially established as its capital.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The authority of the monarch in America was exercised through the<strong> viceroys<\/strong>. The first to arrive was <strong>Blasco N\u00fa\u00f1ez de Vela<\/strong>, who assumed office in 1544. His government relied on the <strong>Royal Audience of Lima<\/strong>, the institution responsible for the administration of justice and political balance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>From Lima, the administration of vast territories across South America was directed, including present-day <strong>Peru, Ecuador, Bolivia, Colombia, Chile, and Argentina<\/strong>. This system was further consolidated in 1569 with the arrival of <strong>Francisco de Toledo<\/strong>, who reorganised the administrative structure, regulated the collection of taxes, and strengthened territorial control.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>As a result of these reforms, Lima became firmly established as the <strong>principal political and administrative centre<\/strong> of the viceroyalty.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Cultural and religious influence<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"788\" height=\"488\" src=\"https:\/\/freewalkingtoursperu.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Quien_fundo_Lima_y_por_que_fue_tan_importante_12.webp\" alt=\"\u00bfQuien fund\u00f3 Lima y por qu\u00e9 fue tan importante?\" class=\"wp-image-70439\" srcset=\"https:\/\/freewalkingtoursperu.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Quien_fundo_Lima_y_por_que_fue_tan_importante_12.webp 788w, https:\/\/freewalkingtoursperu.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Quien_fundo_Lima_y_por_que_fue_tan_importante_12-300x186.webp 300w, https:\/\/freewalkingtoursperu.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Quien_fundo_Lima_y_por_que_fue_tan_importante_12-150x93.webp 150w, https:\/\/freewalkingtoursperu.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Quien_fundo_Lima_y_por_que_fue_tan_importante_12-768x476.webp 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 788px) 100vw, 788px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>During the Viceroyalty of Peru, between the <strong>16th and 19th centuries<\/strong>, life in Lima was deeply shaped by the organisation of the <strong>Catholic Church<\/strong>. The <strong>Archdiocese<\/strong> of Lima played a central role in the social structure and in the <strong>religious administration<\/strong> of the territory.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The Spanish Crown maintained control over ecclesiastical institutions through the system known as the <strong>Royal Patronage<\/strong>, which allowed religion to become closely integrated into the functioning of the government. Within this context, education, art, and cultural practices developed under strong religious influence.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Over time, these traditions blended with <strong>local customs<\/strong>. This process gave rise to a form of <strong>syncretism between Andean and European elements<\/strong>, visible in festivals, artistic expressions, and everyday practices that continued throughout the viceregal period.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Urban growth and colonial architecture<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"788\" height=\"489\" src=\"https:\/\/freewalkingtoursperu.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Quien_fundo_Lima_y_por_que_fue_tan_importante_4.webp\" alt=\"\u00bfQuien fund\u00f3 Lima y por qu\u00e9 fue tan importante?\" class=\"wp-image-70460\" srcset=\"https:\/\/freewalkingtoursperu.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Quien_fundo_Lima_y_por_que_fue_tan_importante_4.webp 788w, https:\/\/freewalkingtoursperu.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Quien_fundo_Lima_y_por_que_fue_tan_importante_4-300x186.webp 300w, https:\/\/freewalkingtoursperu.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Quien_fundo_Lima_y_por_que_fue_tan_importante_4-150x93.webp 150w, https:\/\/freewalkingtoursperu.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Quien_fundo_Lima_y_por_que_fue_tan_importante_4-768x477.webp 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 788px) 100vw, 788px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>During the Viceroyalty of Peru, Lima experienced <strong>steady urban growth<\/strong>. From its foundation in 1535, the city was designed in a <strong>grid layout<\/strong>, following the<strong> Laws of the Indies<\/strong>, which regulated the organisation of cities throughout the Americas.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Development was concentrated around <strong>Lima\u2019s Main Square<\/strong>. The principal institutions of power were located there, including the <strong>Government Palace<\/strong> of Peru, <strong>Lima Cathedral<\/strong>, and the residences of the ruling classes. From this central core, the city gradually expanded into new residential and commercial districts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The architecture reflected this evolution. European styles such as <strong>Renaissance<\/strong>, <strong>Baroque<\/strong>, and <strong>Neoclassical<\/strong> were introduced and adapted to local conditions. Churches and convents fulfilled religious, educational, and social functions within the urban landscape.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Construction techniques also adapted to the region\u2019s seismic activity. Materials such as <strong>quincha<\/strong> and <strong>adobe<\/strong> were widely used, as they were better suited to earthquake-prone areas. These methods allowed for the construction of more flexible structures capable of withstanding the frequent tremors experienced in the region.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Importance in South America<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>During the period of the Viceroyalty of Peru, especially between the <strong>16th and 17th centuries<\/strong>, Lima established itself as the main centre of Spanish power in South America. From the city, the administration of vast territories across the continent was directed under the authority of the <strong>viceregal government<\/strong> and the <strong>Royal Audience of Lima<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Its importance was also shaped by the economy. The silver extracted from <strong>Potos\u00ed<\/strong> drove Lima\u2019s growth and its integration into the <strong>commercial routes<\/strong> of the Spanish Empire. These resources were transported to the coast and shipped to Europe through <strong>Callao<\/strong>, which functioned as the main outlet of the viceroyalty.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>As a result of this dynamic, Lima became firmly established as both a political centre and a key commercial hub within the Spanish colonial system.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Historical and cultural heritage<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"788\" height=\"489\" src=\"https:\/\/freewalkingtoursperu.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Quien_fundo_Lima_y_por_que_fue_tan_importante_6.webp\" alt=\"\u00bfQuien fund\u00f3 Lima y por qu\u00e9 fue tan importante?\" class=\"wp-image-70468\" srcset=\"https:\/\/freewalkingtoursperu.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Quien_fundo_Lima_y_por_que_fue_tan_importante_6.webp 788w, https:\/\/freewalkingtoursperu.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Quien_fundo_Lima_y_por_que_fue_tan_importante_6-300x186.webp 300w, https:\/\/freewalkingtoursperu.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Quien_fundo_Lima_y_por_que_fue_tan_importante_6-150x93.webp 150w, https:\/\/freewalkingtoursperu.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Quien_fundo_Lima_y_por_que_fue_tan_importante_6-768x477.webp 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 788px) 100vw, 788px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The legacy of the <strong>Viceroyalty of Peru<\/strong> shaped the political and cultural organisation of the territory. During this period, a <strong>colonial system<\/strong> was established that integrated Indigenous, European, and African populations within the same administrative structure.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>On an institutional level, the viceroyalty introduced systems of government that would later influence the republican era. Institutions such as <strong>town councils<\/strong>, <strong>royal courts<\/strong>, and <strong>administrative systems<\/strong> organised territorial control and the <strong>administration of justice<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In the cultural sphere, this process gave rise to<strong> mestizaje<\/strong>, or cultural mixing. The blending of traditions can still be seen in <strong>language<\/strong>, <strong>gastronomy<\/strong>, and everyday customs. Within this context, the Catholic religion became firmly established as the centre of social life, integrated into political structures through the colonial system.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Places related to the foundation of Lima<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The foundation of Lima, led by Francisco Pizarro on 18 January 1535, established an <strong>urban centre<\/strong> intended to concentrate the political, religious, and administrative power of the Viceroyalty of Peru. This original space was designed following an organised layout, with the<strong> central square<\/strong> serving as the main point of organisation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>From this starting point, the principal buildings and institutions that shaped the city during the colonial period were developed. These spaces guided Lima\u2019s <strong>urban expansion<\/strong> and defined how the city functioned in the centuries that followed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Below are some of the most representative places for understanding the historical formation of the city.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Plaza de Armas of Lima<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"788\" height=\"489\" src=\"https:\/\/freewalkingtoursperu.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Quien_fundo_Lima_y_por_que_fue_tan_importante_5.webp\" alt=\"\u00bfQuien fund\u00f3 Lima y por qu\u00e9 fue tan importante?\" class=\"wp-image-70464\" srcset=\"https:\/\/freewalkingtoursperu.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Quien_fundo_Lima_y_por_que_fue_tan_importante_5.webp 788w, https:\/\/freewalkingtoursperu.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Quien_fundo_Lima_y_por_que_fue_tan_importante_5-300x186.webp 300w, https:\/\/freewalkingtoursperu.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Quien_fundo_Lima_y_por_que_fue_tan_importante_5-150x93.webp 150w, https:\/\/freewalkingtoursperu.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Quien_fundo_Lima_y_por_que_fue_tan_importante_5-768x477.webp 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 788px) 100vw, 788px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The <a href=\"https:\/\/freewalkingtoursperu.com\/en\/blog\/main-square-of-lima-peru\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Plaza de Armas of Lima<\/a>, also known as <strong>Plaza Mayor<\/strong>, is the exact place where the city was founded in <strong>1535<\/strong>. From the very beginning, it served as the central point of the urban layout designed according to the traditional <strong>grid system<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Around the square, the main institutions of colonial power were established, including the <strong>government<\/strong>, the <strong>church<\/strong>, and the <strong>residences<\/strong> of the ruling classes. This space concentrated <strong>political administration<\/strong> and <strong>social organisation<\/strong> throughout the viceregal period.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Over time, the square maintained its central role. To this day, it continues to be the main setting for official ceremonies and public events in the city.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Lima Cathedral<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"788\" height=\"489\" src=\"https:\/\/freewalkingtoursperu.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Quien_fundo_Lima_y_por_que_fue_tan_importante_1.webp\" alt=\"\u00bfQuien fund\u00f3 Lima y por qu\u00e9 fue tan importante?\" class=\"wp-image-70448\" srcset=\"https:\/\/freewalkingtoursperu.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Quien_fundo_Lima_y_por_que_fue_tan_importante_1.webp 788w, https:\/\/freewalkingtoursperu.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Quien_fundo_Lima_y_por_que_fue_tan_importante_1-300x186.webp 300w, https:\/\/freewalkingtoursperu.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Quien_fundo_Lima_y_por_que_fue_tan_importante_1-150x93.webp 150w, https:\/\/freewalkingtoursperu.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Quien_fundo_Lima_y_por_que_fue_tan_importante_1-768x477.webp 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 788px) 100vw, 788px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Lima Cathedral<\/strong> was built shortly after the foundation of the city in 1535, on one side of the <strong>Plaza Mayor<\/strong>. From that moment onwards, it became part of the institutional core that shaped the urban space during the colonial period.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Its construction developed in stages and evolved over time, incorporating elements of <strong>Renaissance<\/strong>, <strong>Baroque<\/strong>, and <strong>Neoclassical styles<\/strong>. These transformations responded both to changing artistic trends and to reconstruction efforts following the earthquakes that affected the city.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In addition to its religious function, the cathedral played a role in the <strong>evangelisation process<\/strong> promoted by the<strong> Spanish Crown<\/strong>. Inside, several spaces and elements connected to the early years of Spanish presence have been preserved, including the <strong>tomb of Francisco Pizarro<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Government Palace of Peru<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"788\" height=\"489\" src=\"https:\/\/freewalkingtoursperu.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Quien_fundo_Lima_y_por_que_fue_tan_importante_3.webp\" alt=\"\u00bfQuien fund\u00f3 Lima y por qu\u00e9 fue tan importante?\" class=\"wp-image-70456\" srcset=\"https:\/\/freewalkingtoursperu.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Quien_fundo_Lima_y_por_que_fue_tan_importante_3.webp 788w, https:\/\/freewalkingtoursperu.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Quien_fundo_Lima_y_por_que_fue_tan_importante_3-300x186.webp 300w, https:\/\/freewalkingtoursperu.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Quien_fundo_Lima_y_por_que_fue_tan_importante_3-150x93.webp 150w, https:\/\/freewalkingtoursperu.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Quien_fundo_Lima_y_por_que_fue_tan_importante_3-768x477.webp 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 788px) 100vw, 788px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The <a href=\"https:\/\/freewalkingtoursperu.com\/en\/blog\/changing-of-the-guard-lima-peru\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Government Palace<\/a> of Peru stands on the very site where Francisco Pizarro established his residence after the foundation of Lima in 1535. Since then, this space has remained closely linked to the exercise of <strong>political power<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>During the Viceroyalty of Peru, it served as the <strong>residence of the viceroys<\/strong>, who governed the territory on behalf of the Spanish Crown. From here, decisions were made that affected much of South America.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Today, the palace continues to fulfil this role as the seat of the <strong>Executive Branch<\/strong>. Its location facing Lima\u2019s Plaza de Armas connects it directly to the original core from which the city was organised.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Lima today: living history for tourism<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The process of conquest and colonial organisation transformed the ancient territory known as <strong><em>\u201cBir\u00fa\u201d<\/em><\/strong> into the Viceroyalty of Peru, establishing <strong>new political, economic, and social structures<\/strong> from the 16th century onwards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Within this context, Lima became the main centre of power. From its foundation in 1535 as the \u201cCity of Kings\u201d, it concentrated administrative decisions and <strong>territorial control<\/strong>. Over the centuries, it became the setting for the most important events of <a href=\"https:\/\/freewalkingtoursperu.com\/en\/tours-lima\/city-tour-of-lima-peru\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">colonial Lima<\/a>. Below, we present <a href=\"https:\/\/freewalkingtoursperu.com\/en\/blog\/historic-center-of-lima-peru\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Lima\u2019s Historic Centre<\/a>, one of the key places for understanding this stage in the city\u2019s history.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">The Historic Centre as a tourist attraction<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"788\" height=\"489\" src=\"https:\/\/freewalkingtoursperu.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Quien_fundo_Lima_y_por_que_fue_tan_importante_2.webp\" alt=\"\u00bfQuien fund\u00f3 Lima y por qu\u00e9 fue tan importante?\" class=\"wp-image-70452\" srcset=\"https:\/\/freewalkingtoursperu.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Quien_fundo_Lima_y_por_que_fue_tan_importante_2.webp 788w, https:\/\/freewalkingtoursperu.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Quien_fundo_Lima_y_por_que_fue_tan_importante_2-300x186.webp 300w, https:\/\/freewalkingtoursperu.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Quien_fundo_Lima_y_por_que_fue_tan_importante_2-150x93.webp 150w, https:\/\/freewalkingtoursperu.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Quien_fundo_Lima_y_por_que_fue_tan_importante_2-768x477.webp 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 788px) 100vw, 788px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>To understand what makes <strong>Lima\u2019s Historic Centre<\/strong> so special, it is important to look at its different layers of history. Within this space, traces of pre-Hispanic settlements \u2014 such as those of the ancient<strong> Ychma<\/strong> culture \u2014 coexist with the urban layout established after the Spanish foundation in the 16th century.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This area was declared a <strong>UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1988<\/strong>, in recognition of its historical and urban value. Its grid-style design, defined from 1535 onwards, organised the city\u2019s growth and concentrated the principal institutions of colonial power.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Within this historic core stand important landmarks such as <strong>Lima\u2019s Plaza de Armas<\/strong>, <strong>Lima Cathedral<\/strong>, and the <strong>Government Palace of Peru<\/strong>. Around them, churches, convents, and colonial mansions developed, shaping the city\u2019s urban structure throughout the viceregal period.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Experiences such as <em>walking tours<\/em><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"788\" height=\"689\" src=\"https:\/\/freewalkingtoursperu.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Quien_fundo_Lima_y_por_que_fue_tan_importante_13.webp\" alt=\"\u00bfQuien fund\u00f3 Lima y por qu\u00e9 fue tan importante?\" class=\"wp-image-70501\" srcset=\"https:\/\/freewalkingtoursperu.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Quien_fundo_Lima_y_por_que_fue_tan_importante_13.webp 788w, https:\/\/freewalkingtoursperu.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Quien_fundo_Lima_y_por_que_fue_tan_importante_13-300x262.webp 300w, https:\/\/freewalkingtoursperu.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Quien_fundo_Lima_y_por_que_fue_tan_importante_13-150x131.webp 150w, https:\/\/freewalkingtoursperu.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Quien_fundo_Lima_y_por_que_fue_tan_importante_13-768x672.webp 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 788px) 100vw, 788px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>If you decide to explore Lima\u2019s Historic Centre on your own, you will be able to follow the city\u2019s original layout, admire its architecture, and identify the main spaces linked to the colonial period. It is a direct way to understand how <strong>Lima<\/strong> was organised following its <strong>foundation in 1535<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For a guided visit, <em><a href=\"https:\/\/freewalkingtoursperu.com\/en\/tours-lima\/free-walking-tour-lima\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">free walking tours<\/a><\/em> offer a more detailed interpretation of the area. With the help of a guide, it becomes easier to identify streets, buildings, and key locations connected to the origins of the city and the functioning of the Viceroyalty of Peru. These tours usually operate on a <strong>voluntary contribution<\/strong> basis at the end of the experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>There are also options with specific schedules, such as Sunday tours, as well as <a href=\"https:\/\/freewalkingtoursperu.com\/en\/tours-lima\/lima-private-tours-and-walks\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">private services<\/a> for those seeking a more personalised experience within the same historic circuit.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Lima is not just the capital of Peru; it is a city where every street whispers stories that transport you back to the early days of the colonial era. As you walk through its squares and wander along its streets, it is impossible not to wonder: who was behind its foundation, and why did this [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":7,"featured_media":70485,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"advgb_blocks_editor_width":"","advgb_blocks_columns_visual_guide":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[63],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-70562","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-lima"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v28.4 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>The Founding of Lima: History and Events that Shaped Peru<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"The Founding of Lima: History and Events that Shaped Peru. Facts that many visitors to Lima don&#039;t know. Discover them now!\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/freewalkingtoursperu.com\/en\/blog\/the-founding-of-lima-history-events-peru\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"The Founding of Lima: History and Events that Shaped Peru\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"The Founding of Lima: History and Events that Shaped Peru. Facts that many visitors to Lima don&#039;t know. Discover them now!\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/freewalkingtoursperu.com\/en\/blog\/the-founding-of-lima-history-events-peru\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"Free Walking Tours Peru\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:published_time\" content=\"2026-05-09T17:51:16+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:modified_time\" content=\"2026-07-20T04:16:24+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/freewalkingtoursperu.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Quien_fundo_Lima_y_por_que_fue_tan_importante_10.webp\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:width\" content=\"788\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:height\" content=\"489\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:type\" content=\"image\/webp\" \/>\n<meta name=\"author\" content=\"Michael\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"Written by\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"Michael\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:label2\" content=\"Est. reading time\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data2\" content=\"14 minutes\" \/>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"yoast-schema-graph\">{\"@context\":\"https:\\\/\\\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":\"Article\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/freewalkingtoursperu.com\\\/en\\\/blog\\\/the-founding-of-lima-history-events-peru\\\/#article\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/freewalkingtoursperu.com\\\/en\\\/blog\\\/the-founding-of-lima-history-events-peru\\\/\"},\"author\":{\"name\":\"Michael\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/freewalkingtoursperu.com\\\/en\\\/#\\\/schema\\\/person\\\/140612b6810b92d6c9574052175078cb\"},\"headline\":\"Who founded Lima and why was it so important?\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-05-09T17:51:16+00:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-07-20T04:16:24+00:00\",\"mainEntityOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/freewalkingtoursperu.com\\\/en\\\/blog\\\/the-founding-of-lima-history-events-peru\\\/\"},\"wordCount\":2482,\"publisher\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/freewalkingtoursperu.com\\\/en\\\/#organization\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/freewalkingtoursperu.com\\\/en\\\/blog\\\/the-founding-of-lima-history-events-peru\\\/#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/freewalkingtoursperu.com\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2026\\\/05\\\/Quien_fundo_Lima_y_por_que_fue_tan_importante_10.webp\",\"articleSection\":[\"Lima\"],\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},{\"@type\":\"WebPage\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/freewalkingtoursperu.com\\\/en\\\/blog\\\/the-founding-of-lima-history-events-peru\\\/\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/freewalkingtoursperu.com\\\/en\\\/blog\\\/the-founding-of-lima-history-events-peru\\\/\",\"name\":\"The Founding of Lima: History and Events that Shaped Peru\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/freewalkingtoursperu.com\\\/en\\\/#website\"},\"primaryImageOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/freewalkingtoursperu.com\\\/en\\\/blog\\\/the-founding-of-lima-history-events-peru\\\/#primaryimage\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/freewalkingtoursperu.com\\\/en\\\/blog\\\/the-founding-of-lima-history-events-peru\\\/#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/freewalkingtoursperu.com\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2026\\\/05\\\/Quien_fundo_Lima_y_por_que_fue_tan_importante_10.webp\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-05-09T17:51:16+00:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-07-20T04:16:24+00:00\",\"description\":\"The Founding of Lima: History and Events that Shaped Peru. 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