The Plaza San Martin, inaugurated in 1921 to honour the first centenary of Peruvian independence, is one the largest and most beautiful squares in Lima. It is dedicated to General Jose de San Martin, a key leader for the struggle of independence in Southern America and together with Simon Bolivar the second liberator of Peru. He declared Peru’s independence on the 28th of July 1821 and was voted the Protector of the newly independent nation...

The Plaza San Martin is surrounded by well preserved Republican buildings influenced by the French architectural style typical in Lima at the beginning of the 20th century. Just opposite the square you find the old, famous and most elegant hotel in Lima, the Gran Hotel Bolivar.