Lima’s largest museum, the National Museum, is a modern, multipurpose institution dedicated to archaeology, science, and education. Its fascinating exhibits span the whole history of human civilisation in the area, ranging from ancient pre-colonial times to the tumultuous political history of modern Peru. Visit the National Museum to explore the various deep historical contours that meet in this truly engrossing city.
The National Museum, known in Spanish as the Museo de la Nación (Museum of the Nation), is housed in the former Fishing Ministry building. Admire the concrete façade of this curious building, which was constructed in a somewhat anarchic style. A jumble of geometric elements stick together – and occasionally stick out – in this seemingly disordered but overall very pleasing design.
One of the museum’s main attractions is its extensive pre-Columbian collection. Thousands of artefacts from ancient Peru are held here, many of them dating back long before the arrival of Spanish settlers in the area. Browse the pre-colonial art collection, which includes a crowd-pleasing display of ceramics from ancient civilisations including the Nasca, Moche, and Wari cultures.
Other pre-Columbian highlights include the famous Revolt of the Objects mural and the reproduction of the Lord of Sipan burial chamber. Look out for the Lanzón statue, which considered to be the most important surviving work of the Chavín civilisation, a group that was based in the Andes mountain range.
Head to the Shining Path exhibition, a permanent display of black-and-white photos that depict the history of civil wars and confrontations in Peru. This exhibition provides a moving insight into the struggles that the people of Lima have faced over their tumultuous history. It may not be suitable for children on account of its potentially shocking contents.
The National Museum is located to Lima’s south. It is easily accessible from the centre of town – either take a bus down Javier Prado Avenue, ride the metro to the La Cultura Stop, or take a taxi for the 8-kilometre (5-mile) journey. Note that the museum’s temporary exhibitions may charge an additional fee.
