Riots break in Lima, Peru after the police forces go on strike the day before. The uprising (locally known as the Limazo) is bloodily suppressed by the military dictatorship.

Lima (pronounced LEE-mə in English, and [ˈlima] in Spanish) stands as the dynamic capital and the largest city of Peru, serving as the nation's vibrant heart. This expansive metropolis is uniquely situated in the fertile valleys carved by the Chillón, Rímac, and Lurín Rivers. It occupies a distinctive position within the desert zone of the central coastal part of the country, offering breathtaking views of the vast Pacific Ocean. This strategic location, nestled between the arid coastal plains and the life-giving rivers, has been instrumental in its development.

Geographical and Demographic Overview

Together with the neighboring seaport of Callao, Lima forms a sprawling and contiguous urban expanse officially known as the Lima Metropolitan Area. Callao is not just a part of the metropolitan area but also Peru's principal port, vital for the country's maritime trade and economy. This vast urban agglomeration is home to a significant portion of Peru's population, with more than 9.7 million inhabitants within the city proper and over 10.7 million across its metropolitan area. This makes Lima one of the largest and most densely populated cities in the Americas, a true demographic giant on the continent.

Historical Significance and Foundation

The origins of Lima's name are rooted in the rich pre-Hispanic heritage of the region. The area was initially known by its native Peruvian inhabitants as 'Limaq,' referring to the agricultural region where the city would later be established. Upon its foundation by Spanish conquistador Francisco Pizarro on January 18, 1535, the city was officially named "Ciudad de los Reyes" (City of Kings). It rapidly ascended to prominence, becoming the capital and the most influential city within the immense Viceroyalty of Peru. This Viceroyalty was one of the two most crucial administrative divisions of the Spanish Empire in South America, making Lima the epicenter of Spanish colonial power and culture in the continent for centuries. Following the successful conclusion of the Peruvian War of Independence, Lima naturally transitioned into its role as the capital of the newly established Republic of Peru (República del Perú), a status it retains to this day. Its demographic significance remains profound, with approximately one-third of the entire national population residing within the Lima metropolitan area, underscoring its pivotal role in the nation's social and economic fabric.

A Hub of Education and Influence

Lima proudly hosts one of the New World's most historically significant institutions of higher learning. The National University of San Marcos, established on May 12, 1551, during the colonial era under the Viceroyalty of Peru, holds the distinction of being the first officially established and the oldest continuously functioning university in the Americas. This venerable institution has been a beacon of academic excellence and intellectual development for nearly five centuries, shaping generations of leaders, thinkers, and professionals across the continent.

Global Standing and Key Infrastructure

In the contemporary era, Lima has solidified its position as the undisputed political, cultural, financial, and commercial heart of Peru. On the international stage, it is recognized as one of the thirty most populated urban agglomerations worldwide, a testament to its scale and dynamism. Its strategic geostrategic importance has been acknowledged by the Globalization and World Cities Research Network (GaWC), which has categorized Lima as a "beta" tier city. This designation signifies Lima's substantial global influence and its significant connections within the world economy and network of cities.

Jurisdictionally, the sprawling metropolis primarily extends across the province of Lima. A crucial western portion, however, falls under the Constitutional Province of Callao. This area is home to both the vital seaport of Callao, which handles the majority of Peru's international trade, and the Jorge Chávez International Airport, Peru's main international gateway for air travel. Since 2002, both the province of Lima and the Constitutional Province of Callao have been granted regional autonomy, allowing for more localized governance and development strategies.

Lima as a Premier Host for International Events

Lima's growing prominence on the global stage is further underscored by its proven capability to host major international events. In October 2013, the city was selected to host the prestigious 2019 Pan American Games. These games, held across various venues within and around Lima, represented the largest sporting event ever organized in Peru, showcasing the country's logistical capabilities and vibrant spirit. Beyond sports, Lima has been a frequent venue for high-level international conferences and gatherings:

Frequently Asked Questions About Lima

What is Lima's significance to Peru?
Lima is not only the capital and largest city of Peru but also its political, cultural, financial, and commercial center. Approximately one-third of the national population resides in its metropolitan area, making it the undeniable hub of the country.
What makes Lima unique geographically?
Lima is uniquely situated in a desert zone along Peru's central coast, built within the valleys of three rivers (Chillón, Rímac, and Lurín) and overlooking the Pacific Ocean. This juxtaposition of arid landscape with riverine sustenance and coastal access is distinctive.
What is the oldest university in the Americas, and where is it located?
The National University of San Marcos, located in Lima, Peru, is the first officially established and the oldest continuously functioning university in the Americas, founded on May 12, 1551.
Why is Callao important to Lima?
Callao forms part of the contiguous Lima Metropolitan Area and is crucially important as Peru's main seaport and home to the Jorge Chávez International Airport, serving as the country's primary gateway for international trade and air travel.
What global status does Lima hold?
Lima is one of the thirty most populated urban agglomerations globally and is categorized as a "beta" tier city by the Globalization and World Cities Research Network, indicating its significant global influence and connectivity.