Make a trip to the Government Palace, which was originally built by the city’s founder, an infamous Spanish conquistador by the name of Francisco Pizarro. See where the current Peruvian president lives, watch the ceremonial changing of the guards and explore this functioning government building with a fascinating history.
With characteristic cultural sensitivity, Pizarro built the palace in 1535 on the site of an Incan burial ground – this was where the previous ruling authority for the area used to live. The Government Palace is known by some as the House of Pizarro, such is his influence over the city’s colonial era. The site has been rebuilt and redesigned a number of times over the centuries, having sustained damage from a number of fires and earthquakes. Now a lonely fig tree, which is said to have been planted by Pizarro himself, may be the only remaining feature of the original palace.
The Government Palace was Lima’s first official palace under Spanish Rule. Currently, it serves as the official residence of the president of Peru. It is also a functional meeting place for government. Visit at noon to see the changing of the guards, a ceremonial routine that sees the palace guards march in blue-and-red uniforms with Peruvian flags held aloft.
Admire the façade of the palace, which looks properly picturesque with palm trees by the side and an iron fence in the foreground. Head to the north side of Plaza Mayor and enter the palace through a grand portal. The palace takes up the whole of a city block, so it may take you some time to explore it.
The Government Palace is located just south of the Rímac River in the centre of Lima. It is easily accessible by bus, and it is walking distance from a number of other historical attractions including the Cathedral of Lima and the Aliaga Virreynal House. The palace is open to the public, although certain sections may be unavailable on account of political activity. Make a reservation by calling in advance, or ask the guards for directions to the office.
