First presenting the contrast between the republican grandeur of Lima and the Andean stylings of Cusco, this video goes on to follow the day to day live of rural Cusqueños. In the images you will also see Machu Picchu before its restoration, as well as Sacsayhuaman, Ollantaytambo and a Cusco without cars.
June 2, 2010 | Cusco Guide, Film, Modern Peru
Little is it known that the technology that led to the landing of man on the moon, of faster than sound jet planes and intercontinental missiles… first saw form in the experiments of a Peruvian in the late 1800s.
May 17, 2010 | Modern Peru
Originally famous as an exclusive beach resort in the mid 20th century, it is more popular today with the new population of Lima’s sprawling north. Its mix of Republican-era mansions and beach-front modern apartments still make it a very attractive place to visit.
May 8, 2010 | Lima City Guide
President and Dictator Augusto B. Leguía embarked on a mission to completely transform a capital city that had faded from the world scene. His achievements were remarkable and lasted decades, find out what they were…
April 14, 2010 | Lima City Guide, Modern Peru
The Oechsle chain of department stores has an almost legendary status among Limeños old enough to remember it. Long before the arrival of the Chilean chains Ripley and Saga, back when Lima was a developed and modern city, Oechsle was regarded as one of the most successful and important department stores in South America.
March 3, 2010 | Modern Peru
One of Peru’s greats, the embodiment of Peruvianism and the creole culture of Peru’s coastal regions, passed away today as a result of poor general health. The loss of this one man that became a symbol of Peruvian identity will be felt deeply across Peru and especially on the coast, but also across Latin American and the world. His inimitable voice captivated his listeners in a way that few other artists have ever been able to do, somehow making every word his sang sound unmistakeably and unequivocally PERUANO.
October 9, 2009 | Modern Peru, News
Starting life as a rocky bay that was the nearest natural port to Pizarro’s capital of Los Reyes, El Callao soon became the most important port in the Spanish colonies. It has witnessed colonial splendour, pirate attacks, disastrous tsunamis, battles, republican splendour and economic collapse. Each of these events have left a mark on the city and the chalacos that live there, many of these marks visible to this day.
May 21, 2009 | Lima City Guide, Modern Peru
Such is Peruvian ingenuity that this was the first nation in South America to produce high-quality automobiles. World-beating ones at that. But as great as Peruvian creativity… is a lack Peruvian self esteem. What could have been the start of a major Peruvian industry was snuffed out by Peruvians themselves, who then, as now, see everything from abroad as better, whether it really is or not.
May 7, 2009 | Commentary/Opinion, Modern Peru
The Fortaleza del Real Felipe is the most prominent landmark in Callao. Built during colonial times, it was used to defend Spain’s most important port in the Americas against pirates and corsairs who would otherwise raid Callao or nearby Lima as they did up and down the Pacific coast. Today it is a tourist attraction and museum run by Peru’s army.
April 24, 2009 | Lima City Guide, Modern Peru
Between the two neighbouring administrative areas of Maranga and Sulcovilca was Limatambo. Once a busy town surrounded by fields, only two structures still exist on the edge of San Isidro and in La Victoria.
April 23, 2009 | Archaeology, Lima City Guide
February is over, it is finally safe to come out of hiding and explain how carnival is celebrated in Peru. While Brazilians are building floats and flailing around, most Peruvians have to look over their shoulders. I have to mention Brazil because to most foreigners, the word carnival is synonymous with Peru’s largest neighbour. It may come as a surprise to many though that carnival is a big deal in Peru too – in fact, the next biggest and best carnival experience in the Americas is hosted in the north of the Andean country, in beautiful Cajamarca. Here the hugely anticipated event is the local population’s reason for being – and you can’t blame them, read about it here.
March 8, 2009 | Commentary/Opinion, History, Lima City Guide
This mansion in the colonial heart of Lima is as beautiful as it is unique. In its 200 year history it has seen two wealthy owners come and go, leaving it with two names. I happened to be passing by when Lizardo Retes, who takes care of the site that is now a cultural centre, offered to show me around – and to the roof where you can see as far as Callao.
January 16, 2009 | Lima City Guide, Modern Peru