Lima (disambiguation) facts for kids

Lima is a name that can mean a few different places around the world. The most famous one is the capital city of Peru, a country in South America. Other places named Lima include a small town in Sweden and a city in the United States.

Lima, Peru: The Capital City

Lima is the largest city in Peru and its capital. It is located on the Pacific Ocean coast, in the valleys of three rivers: the Chillón, Rímac, and Lurín. This big city is home to over 11 million people, making it one of the largest cities in the Americas. Lima is the main center for Peru's economy, culture, and education.

A Look Back at Lima's History

Lima was founded by a Spanish explorer named Francisco Pizarro on January 18, 1535. He called it "City of the Kings." For many years, Lima was the most important city in South America for the Spanish Empire. It was a major trading hub and a center of power.

The city grew a lot during the colonial period. Many beautiful churches, monasteries, and mansions were built. You can still see these old buildings in the historic center of Lima today. This area is so special that it is recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage site.

Peru became independent from Spain in 1821, and Lima remained its capital. The city continued to grow and change over the years, becoming the modern metropolis it is today.

What's Lima Like Today?

Lima is a busy and exciting city. It has a mix of old and new. You can find ancient Inca ruins, grand colonial buildings, and modern skyscrapers all in one place. The city is known for its amazing food, which is a blend of Peruvian traditions and influences from around the world. Many people visit Lima just to try its delicious dishes.

The weather in Lima is usually mild, with a lot of fog and mist, especially during the winter months (May to November). It doesn't rain much in Lima because it's in a desert area.

Important Places in Lima

• Plaza Mayor (Main Square): This is the heart of the historic center. It's surrounded by important buildings like the Government Palace, the Cathedral of Lima, and the Archbishop's Palace.
• Miraflores: A modern and lively district along the coast. It's famous for its parks, shopping centers, and beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean.
• Barranco: A bohemian neighborhood known for its colorful houses, art galleries, and lively nightlife.
• Larco Museum: This museum has a huge collection of ancient Peruvian art, including pottery, textiles, and gold and silver artifacts. It helps visitors understand the cultures that existed in Peru before the Spanish arrived.

Lima's Culture and Food

Lima is a melting pot of cultures. You can see influences from indigenous Peruvian people, Spanish colonists, and immigrants from Asia and Europe. This mix makes Lima a very diverse and interesting place.

Peruvian food is famous worldwide, and Lima is at the center of this food scene. Some popular dishes you might find include:

• Ceviche: Fresh raw fish marinated in lime juice, chili peppers, and onions.
• Lomo Saltado: Stir-fried beef with onions, tomatoes, and French fries, usually served with rice.
• Aji de Gallina: Creamy chicken stew made with yellow chili peppers, cheese, and walnuts.

Lima also has many festivals and celebrations throughout the year, showing off its rich cultural heritage.

Other Places Named Lima

While Lima, Peru, is the most well-known, the name also refers to other places:

• Lima, Ohio, USA: This is a city in the state of Ohio in the United States. It was founded in 1831 and is known for its history in manufacturing and railroads.
• Lima, Malung-Sälen Municipality, Sweden: This is a small locality in the Malung-Sälen Municipality in Sweden. It's a much smaller place compared to the capital of Peru.

See also

In Spanish: Lima (desambiguación) para niños