Plaza San Martin is a huge open space in the centre of Lima featuring monuments and important structures. There is a large shrine to Peru’s liberator José de San Martin in the centre of the square. The site has an animated ambience because it is popular with artisans and musicians. It is considered one of the most important areas in the city, along with Plaza Mayor. In 1998, the plaza was declared a UNESCO site.
Capture photos of the statue of Peru’s liberator, José de San Martin. He was an Argentine general and leader in the South American countries’ struggle for independence from Spain. The large statue depicts the general on horseback, overlooking the square. It is supposed to represent the moment he crossed the Andes to liberate Argentina, Chile and Peru.
Around the statue are grandiose buildings, such as the Colón Theatre and the National Club. The Hotel Bolivar was constructed in the early 20th century. It has a lavish feel, with chandeliers, majestic staircases and antique carpets. The buildings around the square share a similar baroque style derived from neoclassical European designs.
See street parties and festivals full of dancers waving flags and musicians performing. Watch artisans playing tricks and putting on shows. There is always something interesting to see, from art exhibitions to face-painting stalls and puppet shows. Dine at one of the many restaurants around the square. There are plenty of hotels in the area. Have a picnic on one of the green areas around the plaza.
The plaza was inaugurated in 1921 to mark the 100th anniversary of Peru’s liberation from Spain.
Plaza San Martin sits just south of the city centre of Lima. It is only five blocks south of the city’s birthplace, Plaza Mayor. The nearest bus station is Estación Colmena, just one block east of the square. There are many attractions nearby, such as the Recoleta Church and the La Merced Church, which is famous for its magnificent façade.
