Plaza de Armas (Plaza Mayor)

The Plaza de Armas, also known as Plaza Mayor, is the historic heart of Lima, Peru. This grand square is framed by significant colonial buildings, including the Government Palace, the Cathedral of Lima, and structures adorned with beautiful wooden balconies. It serves as a vibrant hub for both tourists and locals, offering opportunities for photography, people-watching, and exploring the surrounding shops and restaurants. The daily changing of the guard ceremony at the Presidential Palace is a popular spectacle. While generally safe with a visible police presence, visitors should remain mindful of their belongings. The plaza represents a crucial intersection of Peru’s Spanish colonial past and its modern present.