Archbishop’s Palace of Lima, Peru
Located in Lima’s Plaza de Armas, the Archbishop’s Palace of Lima is an extraordinary example of neo-classical architecture. Rising next to the Lima Cathedral, this plot of land has been the Archbishop’s residence since Francisco Pizarro decreed it as such in 1535. The building, however, is relatively new, constructed in 1924 after the previous building, which had stood for years, was in dire need of repair. In addition to the soaring and intricately carved façade, there are spectacular carvings on the cedar balconies that hang above the front door.
On the palace interior, light filtering through stained glass windows falls softly on marble staircases that are lined with duel wooden balconies. With its regal—almost museum-like—quality, it’s hard to imagine that anyone is actually fortunate enough to live in the palace, which is still the home of Lima’s Archbishop and holds offices for the Cardinal of Peru. Guided tours of the palace are available for a deeper insight to the building, and it’s a captivating sight even from the exterior when exploring the Plaza de Armas.
Peru Culture Route 2020 © Simon & Monika Newbound
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