Lima Audio-Tour: Von Helden zur Kunst

The square was built in the 1920s during the presidency of Augusto B. Leguía and was later renamed on October 8, 1979, to commemorate the centenary of the battle of Angamos. This battle was a significant event in Peruvian history, and the renaming of the square was a way to honor the brave naval heroes who fought in that battle. Throughout the years, this square has witnessed some of the largest social demonstrations in the country, making it a symbol of the people's voice. It has also been a venue for political rallies leading up to elections since the 1990s. Additionally, the square and the adjacent Paseo de la República expressway have been used for organizing automobile events, adding to its vibrant atmosphere. In 2007, construction began on the Central Underground Station, which further improved transportation connectivity in the city. The project aimed to serve over a hundred thousand passengers daily and included the reconstruction of the Paseo de los Héroes Navales at the surface level. The park itself is one of the largest and busiest public spaces in Lima, surrounded by significant buildings on all sides. Notably, on April 24, 2018, the sculptures of Paseo Colón were declared Cultural Heritage of the Nation by the Ministry of Culture. These sculptures add a touch of artistic beauty to the park, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Peru. Recently, on February 4, 2022, after recovery work on the promenade, ten new busts were unveiled in a ceremony attended by the mayor of Lima and the general commander of the Peruvian Navy. This demonstrates the ongoing efforts to preserve and enhance this remarkable landmark. So, take a moment to stroll through this bustling park, soak in its historical significance, and admire the beautifully sculpted monuments. The Paseo de los Héroes Navales truly embodies the spirit and resilience of Lima's vibrant city.

The monument was designed by the talented Spanish sculptor Victorio Macho and was inaugurated on October 28, 1946, during the government of President José Luis Bustamante y Rivero. It is even considered a movable property part of Peru's Cultural Heritage. The monument itself is truly impressive. It consists of a four-sided granitic monolith, symbolizing the land of Peru, with vertical stretch marks and ascending stands that represent the sea. At the center of the monument stands a sculpture of Admiral Miguel Grau Seminario, adorned in his sailor uniform, with his arms crossed and surrounded by a helm and ship anchors. On the pedestal beneath the sculpture, you will find a dedication that reads: "To the glory of the great admiral of Peru Miguel Grau, the Millennium Peruvian." The side faces of the monument feature symbolic sculptures depicting men struggling to reach great heights. At the back of the monument, there is a commemorative plaque honoring the Battle of Angamos, the naval engagement in which Admiral Grau lost his life. And to top it all off, the monument is crowned with an allegorical sculpture of fame, raising its arms towards the sky in a clamor for immortality. This sculpture is driven in a mythical ship by tritons and sirens. The Monument to Miguel Grau Seminario holds great significance for the people of Lima and the nation as a whole. It serves as a constant reminder of Admiral Grau's bravery and sacrifice during the War of the Pacific. And across from the square where the monument stands, you'll find the starting point of the Paseo de los Héroes Navales, a beautiful promenade honoring Peru's naval heroes. Shall we continue our fascinating journey through Lima?

The square itself is rectangular in shape with beautifully landscaped gardens bordering its rounded vertices. Standing proudly in the center is the magnificent Monumento a Miguel Grau Seminario. This awe-inspiring monument, created by the talented Spanish sculptor Victorio Macho, is crafted from granite and bronze and stands an impressive twenty-one meters tall. The monument consists of a granitic monolith with vertical stretch marks symbolizing the land of Peru, with stands representing the sea at its base. At the front, you'll find a striking sculpture of Miguel Grau himself, donning his sailor uniform with crossed arms, a helm, and ship anchors nearby. The pedestal carries a dedication that reads, "To the glory of the great admiral of Peru Miguel Grau, the Millennium Peruvian." Further exploring the monument, you'll notice symbolic sculptures adorning the side faces, depicting individuals struggling to reach great heights. On the rear face, there is a commemorative plaque recounting the historic battle of Angamos. Finally, the monument is crowned by the allegory of fame, with arms raised towards the sky, sailing on a mythical ship guided by tritones and sirens. It's interesting to note that the original plaza dedicated to Grau was first built in Callao in 1890. However, it was later renamed Plaza Emilio San Martín to honor Emilio San Martín, another fallen hero of the War of the Pacific. Previously, the plaza had been known as Constitution Square and Victory Square. The Plaza Grau we see today was inaugurated on October 28, 1946, during the presidency of José Luis Bustamante y Rivero. During its inauguration, a special ceremony took place with notable guests, including officials, diplomats, and members of the Armed Forces and Civil Guard. Celebrations included a minute of silence in honor of Admiral Grau, an awe-inspiring air exhibition, and President Bustamante's moving speech at the foot of the monument. Today, the Plaza Grau stands as a magnificent tribute to Admiral Miguel Grau, reminding us of his courageous and impactful legacy. It is undoubtedly a must-visit landmark for anyone exploring the beautiful city of Lima. Are you ready to move on to the next stop on our tour?

At the top of the fountain, you'll find a magnificent marble sculpture created by the talented Italian sculptor, Valmore Gemignani. This sculpture features three different characters that represent the unity and brotherhood of the human races - the white, the yellow, and the black. It is because of this representation that the fountain is also known as the Fountain of the Three Races. On either side of the sculpture, there are two bronze allegorical figures. These figures symbolize the mighty rivers of the Amazon and the Yellow, paying homage to the natural beauty and importance of these water bodies. As you explore further, you'll notice four remarkable representations of the Raimondi Stele from the ancient Chavín culture. These intricate stone carvings add a touch of history and cultural significance to the fountain. The Fuente China was a gift to the Peruvian State during the Centennial of the Independence of Peru in 1921. The Chinese colony living in Peru showed their generosity and respect by creating a committee led by Santiago Escudero Whu and Aurelio Pow San, prominent Chinese merchants and landowners. Together, they collaborated with architect Gaetano Moretti and sculptor Ettore Genovesi in Italy to create this magnificent fountain. After years of hard work, the Fuente China was finally inaugurated on July 28, 1924, as a symbol of the strong bond between Peru and the Chinese community. Take a moment to appreciate the beauty and symbolism of this fountain, as it represents harmony, unity, and the power of cultural exchange.

Now, let's dive into the history of this extraordinary place. Back in the day, this park occupied the space where the south gate of the Walls of Lima, Puerta de Guadalupe, once stood. In the 1870s, President José Balta had the walls demolished as part of his ambitious plan to modernize the city. This made way for the creation of a park that would serve as the venue for the Lima International Exhibition of 1872, and alongside it, the Exhibition Palace was built (which is now home to the Lima Art Museum). The park's design was a stunning collaboration between Manuel Atanasio Fuentes and Italian architect Antonio Leonardi. They created a neo-Renaissance masterpiece that included the construction of pavilions, a zoo, and various other buildings. Interestingly, during the War of the Pacific, the park took on a military role. It served as a garrison and hospital for Peruvian forces before being overrun and used as headquarters for the Chilean troops. Such historical significance! Moving forward, in honor of Peru's centenary of independence, Augusto B. Leguía commissioned the construction of additional structures, such as the Byzantine Hall and the building that now houses the Ministry of Transport and Communications, which is planned to become the Metropolitan Museum of Lima in the future. Now, you may notice that part of the park was incorporated into the Civic Centre of Lima in 1961, resulting in the demolition of the Panopticon of Lima. However, fear not, for this beloved park still retains its original essence and charm. Sadly, during the 1970s, the Park of the Exposition experienced a period of decline. But in the 1990s, under the administration of Alberto Andrade, it underwent a marvelous restoration. Lakes were added, along with the creation of an amphitheater, further enhancing its allure. Andrade even renamed the park as Gran Parque de Lima, although it later reverted to its original name. So, my dear traveler, as we stroll through this enchanting park, take a moment to appreciate its rich history, cultural significance, and the rejuvenation it went through. Enjoy the beauty that surrounds us and let's continue our exploration of Lima's captivating landmarks!

One of the highlights of the museum is its extensive collection of ceramics and textiles, which showcases the mastery of craftsmanship and creativity from different periods in history. You'll be able to witness the rich cultural heritage of Peru through these beautiful and intricate pieces. The museum was inaugurated in 1961 and has since played a crucial role in preserving and promoting Peruvian art. It is a private organization that is supported by admission fees, contributions from members, and generous private donations. In 2015, the museum unveiled its renovated galleries on the second floor of the Exhibition Palace, where some of the collection's most important items are displayed. These galleries take you on a journey through almost 3,000 years of history, from pre-Columbian textiles and pottery to mid-twentieth century painting. While the contemporary art collection, consisting of over 1,000 works, is still awaiting a dedicated exhibition space, the museum remains committed to fostering new research on Peruvian art history. It houses one of the most extensive art archives in the region, making it a valuable resource for scholars and enthusiasts alike. MALI also hosts a vibrant program of temporary exhibitions throughout the year, featuring both local and international artists. Past exhibitions have showcased the works of renowned artists such as Gordon Matta Clark, Milagros de la Torre, Gerhard Richter, and Francis Alÿs, just to name a few. The museum itself is housed in the magnificent 1872 World's Fair Exhibition Palace, designed by Italian architect Antonio Leonardi. The façade reflects an Italianate style, while the structure utilizes a cast-iron system crafted by Gustave Eiffel's studio between 1870 and 1871. This combination of architectural influences creates a visually captivating experience. The museum is nestled in the Exposition Park, right at the entrance of Lima's historic center. The park, designed by Leonardi himself, was established on the grounds where the Guadalupe Gate, one of the city wall gates, once stood. Over the years, the park has also become home to other structures, including the Moorish and Byzantine pavilions, constructed in 1921 to commemorate Peru's centennial of independence. Don't forget to visit the Manuel Solari Swayne Library and the Peruvian Art Archive, part of the museum's documentation area. They are considered the main art library in Peru, housing a wealth of resources on art, material culture, and architecture. ARCHI, an initiative of the museum, offers free educational resources to enhance the teaching and learning experience both inside and outside the classroom. So, get ready to immerse yourself in the vibrant world of art and culture as we continue our journey through Lima's incredible landmarks.

The statue portrays a standing female figure, adorned in a light tunic and wearing a laurel wreath on her head. It is placed on a 4.30 meter high pedestal, giving it a commanding presence in the plaza. In fact, both the sculpture and the Plaza Francia were declared a monumental urban environment in 1972, recognizing their cultural significance. In 2018, La Libertad was declared Cultural Heritage of the Nation, solidifying its importance in Peru's history. The statue has a fascinating backstory tied to the celebration of Peru's Centennial of Independence in 1921. Various foreign colonies in Lima planned to gift something to the city for this milestone event. Among them, the French colony intended to give a sculpture that was initially meant to be placed in the Plaza Mayor. However, due to delays, they were unable to present their gift on time. In 1925, the project for the statue was revived and a new commission, led by French engineer Michel Fort, was formed to raise funds for the work. A competition was held in Rome to select the sculptor, and René Bertrand-Boutée emerged as the winner. He had a remarkable portfolio of bronze sculptures and busts to his name. The installation of the statue and its base was carried out by Florentino Palma, using white granite from Amancaes. Additionally, four ornamental chandeliers made of bronze and iron, standing at 4.55 meters tall, accompanied the sculpture. A bronze plaque was also cast and carved, which read "Homage from the French colony to the Republic of Peru on the first centenary of its Independence." Over the years, the location of the Statue of Liberty has undergone changes. Initially, it was placed in the Plaza de la Libertad, which was built by the government in 1922. The inauguration ceremony was attended by President Augusto B. Leguía, the Archbishop of Lima, Emilio Lissón, and the diplomatic representatives of France. In 1935, the sculpture was moved to its current location in Plaza Francia, previously known as Plaza de la Recoleta. It stands near the facades of the Manrique Hospice and the Church of the Sacred Hearts (Recoleta). The statue is oriented in such a way that Liberty points with her raised torch towards the east, embracing the new day and symbolizing freedom. So, as you stand here in front of the Statue of Liberty, take a moment to appreciate the history and the symbolism it represents for the people of Lima and Peru as a whole.

Construction of the theater began in 1911 and was completed in 1914. The architect behind this impressive structure was Claude Sahut, a French architect who also designed and built various other works in Lima during the early 20th century. The theater was inaugurated with its first play, "Los Fantoches," performed by the "Fabregas" Theater Company. During its early years, the theater hosted a wide range of shows and performances by small theater companies, both local and international. However, in 1921, it shifted its focus to film screenings and gradually became exclusively for film reproduction by 1927. In an effort to adapt to its new role as a cinema and enhance its appearance, the theater underwent a remodeling process in 1936. This included the removal of independent boxes on the first floor and the addition of another floor to the structure. These changes aimed to create a more harmonious look with the surrounding buildings. In 1972, the theater was expropriated by the Revolutionary Government of the Armed Forces of General Juan Velasco Alvarado and later declared a National Monument, becoming part of the Immovable Cultural Heritage of the Nation. Unfortunately, in the 1980s and 1990s, the theater fell into decline and became an adult movie theater due to the economic crisis and the decline of cultural spaces in Lima. However, in 2004, the Teatro Colón was auctioned and acquired by the Theater Directorate of the Ministry of Culture. A project called "Proyecto Cultural Colón Theater" was established in 2005 with the goal of restoring the deteriorated structure and transforming it back into a cultural space. The Teatro Colón's facade stands out with its soft lines and elegant design. Its interior is described as small but elegant, with simple and artistic decoration. The architecture offers a graceful and cheerful atmosphere, complemented by a beautiful view over the now-disappeared Plaza Zela. Today, the Teatro Colón is located in front of San Martín Plaza, between the Giacoletti Building and the Club Nacional. It serves as a physical reminder of Lima's vibrant cultural heritage and is a testament to the rich history and resilience of this captivating city. Shall we move on to our next stop?

The history of this church dates back to the early 17th century when the first chapel was built in the area. It was financed by a Spanish man named Luis de Ojeda, known as 'Luis Pecador'. Initially, the chapel was connected to an orphanage, which is where it gets its name from, and it was dedicated to the Virgin of Atocha. In 1612, it was elevated to the status of a vice-parish. Over the years, the church has undergone several changes. In 1657, the church was intervened but the details of the alterations remain unknown. The layout of the church changed significantly in 1685, with a different and inverse plan. Unfortunately, in 1687, the church was devastated by earthquakes, leading it to be used as a warehouse and stable for several decades. In 1742, a new church was planned, designed by Manuel de Torquemada and built by Cristóbal de Vargas. However, the second structure collapsed during the earthquake of 1746, which occurred the same year it was completed. Interestingly, the current construction's plans correspond to those of the collapsed church. The Sacred Heart Church was inaugurated on April 6, 1766, with the design attributed to the Jesuit priest Juan Rehr. What makes this church unique is its elliptical plan, similar to the Catholic temples in Austria, making it the only Catholic temple in Peru and Latin America with this design. It is built in the Rococo limeño style, with late Baroque ornamentation. The light blue vaulted roof, from the beginning of its construction, was intended to imitate the nuances of the sky. The main façade is adorned with twin bell towers and features an exquisite combination of curved and straight lines, creating a striking visual appeal. Inside the church, you will find the subchoir, nave, and presbytery, along with four shallow niche chapels around the curvature. The side cover, added in the 19th century, showcases a neoclassical design, offering a blend of architectural styles within the church. The Sacred Heart Church is not only a significant landmark in Lima but also a testament to the architectural beauty and historical importance of this iconic city.