Peru

Lima is the capital and largest city of Peru, home to the president, congress, and national ministries. Founded by Francisco Pizarro in 1535 as Ciudad de los Reyes, it became the capital of the Spanish Viceroyalty of Peru and has remained the country’s political and economic center on the Pacific coast. While Cusco was the capital of the Inca Empire (and is now a cultural hub), the modern national capital is Lima. The Historic Centre of Lima is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, reflecting its colonial heritage. Memory tip: think “Lima bean”—the bean’s name comes from the city, helping link Peru with Lima.