This extensive archaeological complex of palaces and temple-pyramids was considered one of the most important religious monuments by the indigenous people of the central Andes. Although it was an important Inca site and a major city when the Spanish arrived, it had been a ceremonial centre about 1000 years before the expansion of the Inca Empire.

The name Pachacamac, variously translated as 'he who animated the world' or 'he who created land and time', comes from the powerful Wari god, whose wooden two-faced image can be seen in the on-site museum. The main temple at the site was dedicated to this deity and held a famous oracle. Pilgrims travelled to the centre from great distances, and its cemetery was considered sacrosanct. The site of Pachacamac has been preserved, and one of the Inca structures, the Mamacuna, has been reconstructed. A must-see for architecture and archaeology buffs.

This fascinating private museum is in an 18th-century viceroy mansion built on the site of pre-Colombian pyramid houses. It has one of the largest ceramics collections in the world. It also displays gold and silver pieces and feathered textiles, although many tourists are lured here by the famous collection of remarkably explicit pre-Columbian erotica.

One of the real prizes is an astonishing Paracas weaving that contains 398 threads to the linear inch - a world record.

This cathedral has had a potted history. Originally constructed in 1555, it was considered too small and had to be rebuilt. It suffered earthquake damage in 1687 and again in 1746, but today this majestic colonial church is is sitting pretty, with interesting woodcarvings and original mosaics. There is a small museum and guided tours are available.

There is a fine collection of allegorical and historic paintings and altars that are finely covered with silver. You can appreciate the original Spanish mosaics on the walls with the inscriptions of Lima's founder, Francisco Pizarro, and the city's coat of arms. Of great interest are the coffin and remains of Pizarro in the mosaic-covered chapel to the right.