Lima - Government Palace

(Local Name: Palacio de Gobierno) Located on the north side of the Plaza de Armas, the Palacio de Gobierno or Government Place, is the residence of the president of Peru. It is easily recognizable by the large wrought iron fence that surrounds the building and lines one side of the Plaza de Armas.

The location of the Government Palace is of historical importance for two main reasons. It was house of Taulichusco, the ruler of the Rimac Valley during that time period. This was also the location where Jose San Martín declared the Independence of Peru on July 28, 1821.

The first phase of construction on the Government Palace began in 1926 and the second phase was completed between 1937 and 1938. There is always a guard on duty outside the building and the changing of the guard takes place Monday to Friday at noon. Tours of the Palacio de Gobierno can be arranged by booking 24 hours in advance at the Jefatura de Turismo.