Bolivar Square, Lima

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Bolivar Square, Lima

Bolivar Square, Lima

If you are fascinated by history and drawn to places of heritage, then Bolívar Square is the perfect spot for you. Formerly known as Inquisition Square and Congress Square, it lies in the Barrios Altos district of downtown Lima.

Dominating the square is the Legislative Palace, the seat of the Peruvian Congress and once home to the Inquisition Tribunal, which operated here until 1813 under the authority of the Spanish viceroys.

In 1859, the square was renamed Bolívar Square and a replica of the Simón Bolívar Monument was installed at its center. Simón Bolívar, one of South America’s most revered figures, played a pivotal role in the liberation of Venezuela, Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and Panama. He is remembered as a leader of vision, endurance, and deep compassion for his people. The square stands as a tribute to his enduring legacy as a champion of freedom.

During national holidays, Bolívar Square becomes the scene of public gatherings and military parades. For the rest of the year, despite its historic and political importance, it remains a tranquil spot—a pleasant place to relax beneath the shade of its old, leafy trees.

Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Lima. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "911: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.

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Bolivar Square on Map

Sight Name: Bolivar Square
Sight Location: Lima, Peru (See walking tours in Lima)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:

Walking Tours in Lima, Peru

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Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
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