The 8 most emblematic historical places of Peru

Peru is a country with deep roots and an astonishing cultural legacy. The traces of its first civilizations date back to 4000 B.C., especially on the central and northern coast, where cultures like Caral, Chavín, Mochica, and others flourished. However, it was the Incas who left the most significant mark on the territory, building architectural complexes of great value that have survived time. Here we present the 8 most transcendental historical sites in Peru.

1. Machu Picchu: Architectural Jewel of the Incas

Globally recognized as one of the 7 Wonders of the Modern World since 2007, Machu Picchu is one of the most celebrated destinations in America. Built high in the Eastern Cordillera of the Andes, in Cusco, this ancient Inca citadel stands out for its perfectly carved stone architecture and its location among mist-covered mountains.

Among its main structures are the Temple of the Sun, the Intihuatana, the Temple of the Condor, and the Sacred Rock. Furthermore, you can hike to its imposing mountains Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain.

• Access: From Cusco, by a combined bus and train trip (4 hours), or via the Hidroeléctrica route (7 hours), or by doing the Inca Trail (4 days).
• Entrance: From S/154 for foreign adults. There are special rates for students and Andean citizens.

2. The Nazca Lines: Geoglyphs That Defy Time

In the arid desert of Ica are the enigmatic Nazca Lines, enormous figures etched into the earth, visible only from the air. They represent animals, human, and geometric figures, and it is estimated that there are over 800 geoglyphs, some up to 270 meters (approx. 886 feet) long.

Researchers like María Reiche proposed that they were an astronomical calendar created by the Nazca culture between the 2nd and 6th centuries A.D.

• Access: 7 hours by bus from Lima to Nazca.
• Cost: The overflight costs around $80. From a ground viewpoint, the view costs around S/5.

3. Government Palace of Peru: Heart of Power in Lima

Located in Lima’s Plaza Mayor, the Government Palace, also known as Casa de Pizarro, was built on the land assigned to the Spanish conqueror Francisco Pizarro. It is the seat of presidential power and has witnessed key events such as the proclamation of independence in 1821.

The current neocolonial facade dates from 1938. Inside, it houses ornate halls, colonial courtyards, and symbols of the republican and viceregal legacy.

• Location: Plaza de Armas, Lima.
• Entry: Free with prior online reservation.

4. Royal Tombs of the Lord of Sipán: Mochica Wealth

Discovered in 1987 by archaeologist Walter Alva, the Royal Tombs of the Lord of Sipán revealed one of the most sophisticated burials of ancient Peru. The Lord was buried alongside his entourage and numerous gold objects, pottery, and textiles, which evidenced the splendor of the Mochica culture of the 3rd century A.D.

The museum that houses these findings is located in Lambayeque and is considered one of the most important in the country.

• Access: 13 hours by bus from Lima or 1 hour by plane to Chiclayo, then transfer to Lambayeque.
• Cost: General admission S/8.

5. Coricancha: The Golden Temple of the Sun

Located in Cusco, the Coricancha was the most important spiritual enclosure of the Tahuantinsuyo. Its walls were covered with sheets of gold and precious stones, dedicated to the god Inti. Ceremonies such as Inti Raymi were held there.

The Spanish built the Santo Domingo convent on its foundations. Despite the earthquakes, the Inca walls remained almost intact, showing the mastery of their engineering.

• How to get there: From Lima to Cusco by bus (22 h) or by plane (1 h).
• Entrance: From S/15 per person.

6. Sanctuary of Pachacamac: Ancestral Oracle in Lima

Pachacamac was a fundamental religious center for over a thousand years. Various cultures, from the Ychma to the Incas, came there to consult the oracle of the god Pachacamac. The sanctuary includes temples, plazas, and ceremonial structures such as the Acllahuasi (House of the Chosen Women) and the Temple of the Sun.

Currently, it has a modern museum that exhibits pieces found in the complex and displays the history of this millenary site.

• Access: Located in Lurín, south of Lima (1 hour by car).
• Cost: Entrance from S/15. Different rates for students.

7. Caral: The Mother Civilization of America

The sacred city of Caral, declared a World Heritage site by UNESCO, is the oldest settlement in America (3000 B.C.). Discovered by archaeologist Ruth Shady, Caral shows a complex society, with structures such as pyramids, temples, and circular plazas.

Located in the Supe Valley (north of Lima), Caral provides evidence of the high level of social, cultural, and technological development of a civilization that coexisted with Egypt and Mesopotamia.

• How to get there: 3.5 hours from Lima by road.
• Cost: S/11 for adults. Discounts for students and children.

8. Cusco: Historical Capital of the Incas

Cusco, the ancient capital of the Inca empire, is today one of the most beautiful and emblematic cities on the continent. Its cobblestone streets, colonial mansions, churches, and Inca temples make it a true open-air museum.

Among its gems are Sacsayhuamán, the Cathedral, the Coricancha, and, of course, its proximity to Machu Picchu. It is a vibrant city where tradition and modernity meet in harmony.

• Access: By bus from Lima (22 h) or by plane (1 h).
• Cost: Walking around the city is free. Archaeological sites have varied prices.

Do You Dare to Explore the Past of Peru?

These eight sites are just a sample of the immense historical and cultural heritage that Peru holds. Each place is an open door to different eras that marked the course of this Andean nation. Don’t miss the opportunity to get to know them!