The Parque de la Amistad, or Park of Peace/Friendship is located in cuadra 21 of Av. Caminos del Inca, in Santiago de Surco. Although it is not quite on the tourist trail, it is a significant park in the municipality of Surco, and some history is tied up in the park.

Have a look at the photos attached to this entry. As well as being a nice open green space, the park is intended as a place to display cultural attractions and for cultural events. It also presents some history.

Featuring in a number of images is the arch, called El Arco Morisco. This is an exact replica of the original arch that was built in celebration of the centenary of Peruvian independence from Spain that was declared in 1821.
The original arch was located at the begining of Av. Arequipa which was originally called Av. Augusto B. Leguía after the man who commissioned it, President (then dictator) Augusto B. Leguía.
During his time in power, Leguía embarked on a campaign to beautify Lima. He created a number of grand streets and buildings, the grandest street was named after him.
This grand street, built for the rich, soon became an important and busy road, and the arch was an obstruction to the passage of traffic. It was therefore demolished in 1939.
The replica was completed in 2001, and the King and Queen of Spain Juan Carlos I and Sofia attended its inauguration. The arch is now a symbol of peace and friendship.

Tags: lima, parque de la amistad, spaniards, surco