Plaza Mayor (Plaza de Armas)

Plaza Mayor, also known as Plaza de Armas, is Lima’s historic main square. Surrounded by the Cathedral, the Archbishop’s Palace, the Government Palace and elegant colonial balconies, it is one of the best places to begin exploring the city’s past.

The Government Palace, also known as the House of Pizarro, stands on the north side of Plaza Mayor. It is Peru’s seat of government and one of Lima’s most important ceremonial buildings.

Archbishop’s Palace of Lima beside Plaza Mayor with ornate wooden balconies.

Archbishop’s Palace of Lima beside Plaza Mayor showing ornate wooden balconies

Metropolitan Cathedral in Limas Plaza Major.

Plaza Major in Lima showing both the Palacio de la Unión and Municipal Palace.

The Historic Heart of Lima

Plaza Mayor is one of Lima’s most important civic spaces. Around the square you will find some of the city’s most recognisable buildings, including the Cathedral of Lima, the Archbishop’s Palace, the Government Palace and the Municipal Palace.

For visitors, it is a natural starting point for discovering Lima’s Historic Centre. The surrounding streets are full of churches, museums, traditional cafés, balconies and small details that reveal the layers of Peru’s colonial and republican past.

The square is especially rewarding for those who enjoy architecture and photography. Its façades, arcades and wooden balconies give a very different feeling from the coastal districts of Miraflores or Barranco.

Visiting Plaza Mayor

Plaza Mayor can be visited as part of a wider walk through Lima’s Historic Centre. Many visitors combine it with nearby churches, museums, traditional cafés and restaurants.

As with any major city centre, it is best to visit during the day, keep personal belongings secure and check local advice before travelling.

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12 Unmissable Experiences in Lima