In 1535 Francisco Pizarro founded Lima and built his "palace" exactly on the same place where the main authority of the Rimac Valley at this time, the curazco Taulichusco, had his residence. When Lima was granted the title of Viceroyalty the "Casa de Pizarro" became the first Spanish Viceroys Palace in Lima. Since independence the palace is used as official residence of the Peruvian president and is today also the central seat of the Peruvian government. Due to destruction by earthquakes and fires the Government Palace has been rebuilt, restored and remodeled numerous times, so today just a tree that Francisco Pizarro is assumed to have planted, might be the only remaining original piece...

Nevertheless the last main construction works on the building in the 1930s gave this historical monument an impressive beauty and elegance. The Palacio de Gobierno is open to the public. Sometimes it's necessary to make an appointment at the public relations office around the corner. Best ask the guard in front of the Government Palace for directions and take your passport with you. Once inside you can enjoy the amazing patios, the richly decorated lounges, the impressive and beautiful entrance hall and all the other unbelievable treasures of nearly 500 years history of Lima yourself. And don't miss the changing of the guards at noon.