Lima is recognized as one of the most important cultural capitals in South America. This city houses an impressive variety of museums and cultural centers that safeguard the artistic, archaeological, and historical legacy of Peru. From pre-Columbian civilizations to contemporary art, the best museums in the country are concentrated in the so-called “City of Kings.” If you are planning a visit, here are seven museums you cannot miss exploring.
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1. Larco Museum
Located in the traditional district of Pueblo Libre, the Larco Museum is famous for its exceptional collection of pre-Columbian art. It holds over five thousand years of history represented in ceramics, textiles, tools, and gold and silver pieces. Founded by Rafael Larco Hoyle, this museum offers an enriching experience with thematic rooms, tranquil gardens, a cafe, and a souvenir shop.
Address: Av. Simón Bolívar 1515, Pueblo Libre
Hours: Daily, from 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Entry: S/.35 adults, S/.17 students and minors under 18, children under 8 enter free.
2. National Museum of Archaeology, Anthropology, and History of Peru
This is the oldest museum in Peru and one of the most representative in the continent. Founded in 1822, it boasts a vast collection of archaeological, ethnographic, and colonial pieces. Through its halls, you can learn about everything from indigenous cultures to the republican era of the country.
Address: Plaza Bolívar s/n, Pueblo Libre
Hours: Monday to Sunday from 8:45 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Entry: S/.10 adults, S/.1 students and schoolchildren.
3. Pedro de Osma Museum
Located in the picturesque district of Barranco, the Pedro de Osma Museum presents a select collection of viceregal art. Its rooms include masterpieces of painting, sculptures, silver objects, and furniture from the colonial period. Everything is displayed in a beautiful Republican-style mansion surrounded by gardens.
Address: Av. Pedro de Osma 421, Barranco
Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Entry: S/.30 foreigners, S/.20 Peruvians, S/.15 students.
4. Lima Art Museum (MALI)
MALI is located in the majestic Exhibition Palace (Palacio de la Exposición), an emblematic building in the historic center. The museum preserves a permanent collection spanning over 3,000 years of artistic production in Peru, from pre-Hispanic times to the present day. It also offers art courses and workshops.
Address: Av. 9 de diciembre s/n, Parque de la Exposición, Lima
Hours: Tuesday to Sunday from 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. (Saturdays until 5:00 p.m.)
Entry: S/.30 foreigners, S/.15 Peruvians and students, children under 8 free.
5. Metropolitan Museum of Lima
This multimedia museum offers an interactive experience that narrates the history of Lima from the pre-Hispanic era to the 20th century. The rooms are designed with 3D technology, sound, and visual effects that fascinate adults and children alike.
Address: Av. 28 de julio with Av. Garcilaso de la Vega, Lima
Hours: Tuesday to Sunday from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Entry: S/.8 general, S/.5 university students, S/.4 schoolchildren.
6. Huaca Pucllana Site Museum
This museum is integrated into the Huaca Pucllana archaeological site, one of the most representative of the Lima culture. It offers an exhibition of ceramic pieces, textiles, and tools found in the excavations. It also has specialized guides and educational panels.
Address: Calle General Borgoño block 8, Miraflores
Hours: Wednesday to Monday (except Sundays) from 9:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Entry: S/.15 general, S/.7.50 university students and children (5 to 12 years), children under 5 free.
7. Pachacamac Site Museum
This modern museum presents the archaeological findings from the ancient sanctuary of Pachacamac, one of the most important in the Andean world. The tour includes ceramics, textiles, quipus, and a replica of the Pachacamac idol. It is the ideal starting point before exploring the archaeological complex.
Address: Km 31.5 of the old Panamericana Sur, Lurín
Hours: Monday to Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Entry: S/.15 adults, S/.5 students, S/.1 children (3 to 17 years), children under 3 free.