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Lima

Capital of PeruOn the dry central coast of Peru, Lima overlooks the Pacific Ocean from the valleys of the Chillón, Rímac and Lurín rivers. To the west it joins the port city of Callao.

Why it's the capital

Francisco Pizarro chose the site because it was close to a good coast for a port but far enough from it to be safer from pirates. In 1543 Lima became the capital of the Spanish Viceroyalty of Peru, and after independence it became the capital of the new republic.

Fun facts

  1. Lima was founded on 6 January 1535 and first named the City of the Kings, in honour of the Epiphany.
  2. The name Lima probably comes from Limaq, a local Quechua name meaning 'talker' or 'speaker'.
  3. Rain is extremely rare in Lima, but from June to September a light morning drizzle called garúa often leaves the streets wet.

Finding it on the globe

Follow South America's Pacific coast down to Peru and tap the shore about halfway along the country's coastline.

Sources: Wikipedia: Lima