Virtuoso Insights - June/July 2008 - (Page 18) Spotlight lima,Peru whaT iT is Extending inland from the cliffs of the Pacific ocean, lima is Peru’s capital as well as its largest metropolis. whY iT’s imporTaNT long the gateway to Machu Picchu, cuzco, lake Titicaca, and Peru’s other attractions, lima claims a rich colonial history of its own. known as the “city of kings,” lima was founded by Francisco Pizarro in 1535, and the city served as headquarters for Spanish conquistadors and the infamous Inquisition. Many lovely buildings, courtyards, and palaces from this period still remain, earning lima a place on the uNESco World heritage list. The city also was home to South America’s first university. whaT To Do ThErE While known for its fascinating history, lima boasts an electic blend of European, Asian, and native cuisines, and is fast becoming recognized as a top gastronomic destination. So after exploring the city’s historic heart, Plaza de Armas, with its cathedral and government Palace, head to lima’s distinctive chinatown for lunch at one of its many chinese restaurants, or chifas. In between visits to the city’s superb museums — including the acclaimed National Museum of Anthropology and Archaeology and the dazzling gold Museum — stop at one of the many vendors selling ceviche and the national drink, Pisco Sour. And after shopping for folk art and handicrafts at the huge market in the seaside district of Miraflores, sit down for a memorable repast at Astrid y gastón, restaurant of celebrated Peruvian chef gastón Acurio. whEN To go lima is a desert city, and enjoys year-round mild temperatures. The skies, however, can be cloudy from the coastal mist, called garúa; you’ll find the most sunshine and lowest humidity between december and May. 18 Virtuoso insights
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