Government Palace
Palacio de Gobierno
Government Palace (Plaza Mayor, Lima) — this Spanish colonial building was once the residence of conquistador Francisco Pizarro (1535). The land used to build this palace previously belonged to Inca ruler Taulichusco (chief of the Rimac valley). Since Pizarro’s time, various rulers resided here, with renovations being made after a fire damaged portions of the palace. Its courtyards and halls have been dedicated to various local historic figures. Tourists will likely want to stop by the palace at 11:45 am — at that time, there’s the changing of the guard (conducted by the Battalion of the Hussars of Junin). Free tours of the palace are provided by appointment only. Call the following number for further details: +511 311 3908 (Jefarura de Turismo).