The history, development and culture of Peru is widely regarded as one of the most interesting on the planet. Peru is synonymous with abstract artwork, amazing artifacts and of the course, the famous Inca civilization. In Lima, you will find a catalogue of museums, each of which has its own unique and appealing features.
Address: Av Pedro de Osma 409, Barranco
This museum is a lovely place to spend a few hours. Not only are there over 5000 years of ancient Peruvian history on display but there is also a garden full of vibrant plants and beautiful decor. Although, it is the naughty erotic pots that capture the attention of visitors. This style of pottery was widely used during the Inca and Pre-Inca ancient cultures.
Address: Parque de la Exposición, Paseo Colon 125, Cercado de Lima
Located in a beautiful, recently renovated beaux-arts building, the Lima Art Museum is home to the city’s largest collection of paintings, photography, artifacts and pottery. There are a range of subjects on display and there are often special exhibitions. The collections are split into four main areas: pre-Columbian, Colonial, Republican and Modern art. Entry is a mere S1 on Sundays and it isn’t uncommon to spend an entire day here.
Address: Retiro 160, Miraflores
Conveniently located in Miraflores, this museum features a private collection of ceramics, with an impressive display of wares from the Chimú and Nazca cultures. Lace and other textiles from the Chancay culture also features here, all of which were collected by a Japanese businessman.
Address: Pedro de Osma 421, Barranco 15063
This beautiful family house in Barranco is a museum you won’t forget in a hurry. From the outside, you will see a state of the art mansion and it only gets better as you go inside. Dating all the way back to the 1500s is a collection of colonial furniture, silverwork and art. There is also a collection of paintings, sculptures, furniture and silver from the incredibly gifted artist Pedro de Osma Gildmeister on display here (1901-1967).
Address: Jirón Lampa, Cercado de Lima 15001
This amazing church and convent dates back to the sixteenth century. The site stands as one of the city’s most important historical sites for the insight it provides into the religious life during Spanish colonial times. The baroque paintings, colonial architecture and vintage Spanish tiles impress the masses that visit everyday but the highlight of the tour is what lies beneath the church. Until 1808 underneath the church acted as a burial site and it is estimated that 30,000 deceased bodies rest here. Guided tours last around 1.5 hours and can be done through Spanish or English.
Address: Av. Pedro de Osma 409, Barranco 15063
A recent addition to the Lima museum scene, MATE Museum opened in 2012 and has since been the home of the city’s best contemporary art. The work is dedicated to the work of Peruvian fashion photographer Mario Testino as well as other Peruvian artists and a number of well-regarded international talents. Notable portraits include those of iconic figures Princess Diana and Kate Moss.
Address: Jirón Carabaya 193, Distrito de Lima, Lima, Peru
Museo Pisco falls into a different category to the rest to the museums listed above as it is not officially recognized by the city as a museum. Albeit, it is an amazing place to broaden your knowledge and learn all that there is to know about Peru’s beloved national drink. A visit to Museo Pisco consists of everything from bartending classes on how to make pisco cocktails to history courses on the nation’s favorite drink.
The museums of Lima cover a wide range of topics so there’s something for everyone. You’ll leave each one knowing a little more about the culture and history of Peru. Don’t let your time in Lima slide by without visiting one of these fascinating world-class museums.
