Lima, Peru · Historic City Center

Plaza San Martín

San Martín Square · Historic Landmark · Tribute to Liberty

UNESCO World HeritageFreeHistorical Landmark
Explore the Square
4.3
★ ★ ★ ★
51,442 reviews · Google Reviews

01

History & Centennial Celebration

Plaza San Martín is one of the most important public squares in Lima, the capital of Peru. The square was officially inaugurated on July 27, 1921, to celebrate the 100th anniversary of Peru's declaration of independence. Its construction was also a key milestone in Lima's urban modernization process in the early 20th century. Tribute to the Hero of South American Liberation: The square is named after one of the key leaders of the South American independence wars, Argentine General José de San Martín. It was he who proclaimed Peru's independence from Spain on July 28, 1821.

🔍

Hidden Secrets: The 'Llama' Sculpture Mishap

Beneath the equestrian monument of General San Martín stands a bronze statue representing the 'Motherland' (Madre Patria). Due to a classic visual mishap, it has become one of the most famous curiosities of the square. Legend has it that the Spanish sculptor, while interpreting instructions from Peru, misunderstood the Spanish word 'llama' (meaning 'flame') as the identically spelled Andean animal 'llama'. As a result, this solemn statue has a cute little llama on its head instead of the requested flame. Make sure to look for this amusing detail when you visit!

02

Square Design & Architectural Features

Plaza San Martín embodies the vision of early 20th-century Lima urban modernization, presenting a symmetrical beauty influenced by French Baroque and Neoclassical styles.

🏗️ Square Layout

The square is rectangular, surrounded by harmonious European-style building facades. From a former swamp to an elegant public space, its construction is a key symbol of Lima's urban progress.

⚙️ Gran Hotel Bolívar

Located on one side of the square, the Gran Hotel Bolívar was built in 1924. It was once the most luxurious hotel in Lima, attracting numerous international celebrities.

✨ Teatro Colón

Built in 1914, the Teatro Colón is another iconic historic building around the square, reflecting Lima's deep cultural heritage and architectural art.

Basic Information

Name
Plaza San Martín
Construction Year
1921
Inauguration Date
July 27, 1921
Commemorative Event
Centennial of Peru's Independence
District
Lima Historic Center (UNESCO World Heritage)
Architectural Style
Neoclassical, French Baroque

03

Monuments Analysis

Plaza San Martín is not only a popular place for citizens to relax and tourists to sightsee, but it has also long been the main public stage for national celebrations and political rallies in Peru.

1

Bronze Equestrian Monument of General San Martín

In the center of the square stands the monument designed by Spanish sculptor Mariano Benlliure. The statue depicts General San Martín riding on horseback, holding the Peruvian flag, and is an important symbol of Peruvian national identity.

2

Statue of the Motherland

Located beneath the equestrian statue, this bronze casting represents the birth of the Republic of Peru. Beyond the famous 'llama' mishap, the craftsmanship of this statue itself is exquisite.

04

Square Across Time

As a witness to Lima's historical progress, the century-long transformation of Plaza San Martín is truly remarkable. Through the contrast of old photos and modern panoramas, we can intuitively feel the eternal charm of this city landmark.

Plaza San Martín in 1920s

1920s: The newly inaugurated square

Plaza San Martín Today

Today: Plaza San Martín

05

Plan Your Visit

Plaza San Martín is an ideal starting point for exploring Lima's history. For the best experience, please refer to the following practical information.

🌅
Opening Hours
Open 24 hours daily
Daytime lighting is better for photos.
🎟️
Entrance Fee
Free Admission
The square is a public space with no entrance fee.
🛡️
Suggested Visit Duration
30 minutes to 1 hour
You can stroll around the square, admire the statue and surrounding buildings.
Travel Tips
  • Daytime visits are recommended, please use sun protection
  • The city center is crowded, always be alert for pickpockets and keep personal belongings secure
  • Wear comfortable walking shoes
  • Bring a camera to capture historical details
  • Highly recommended to combine with a walking route to the nearby Plaza de Armas

06

Precise Transportation Guide

✈️ Jorge Chávez Int'l Airport (LIM) ➔ Historic Center

For international tourists, landing transportation from the airport is essential. Note: The Airport Express Lima bus mainly goes to the Miraflores district, and it is not convenient to take the bus directly to the old town.

Official Authorized Taxi (Recommended)
Fixed price around 50-60 soles⏱️ About 45 minutes
• Inside the airport arrivals hall, look directly for official authorized taxi counters (e.g., Taxi Green / Taxi Directo)
• Inform the staff you are heading to the historic center (Centro Histórico)
• ⚠️ Warning: Do not take unmarked unofficial taxis outside the airport
🚌 Bus Rapid Transit (Metropolitano)

The most core and convenient public transportation to Plaza San Martín is the Lima Bus Rapid Transit system (Metropolitano).

Metropolitano (Ruta A or Ruta C)

Get off at Estación Colmena station. Exit and walk south for about 2 blocks (2 minutes) to reach Plaza San Martín.

• Take Ruta A or Ruta C of the Metropolitano
• Get off at Estación Colmena station
• Exit and walk south for about 2 blocks (approx. 2 minutes)
🚶 Classic Walking Route

You can easily plan a classic 10-minute walking route from Plaza San Martín to Plaza de Armas. Along the way, you can enjoy the bustling pedestrian street of Jirón de la Unión and historical buildings.

• Start from Plaza San Martín
• Walk straight north along Jirón de la Unión pedestrian street
• Walk for about 10 minutes to reach Plaza de Armas

💡 Transportation Tips

  • Traffic in the old town is congested; prioritize Metropolitano or walking
  • Using ride-hailing apps like Uber or Cabify is convenient with transparent pricing
  • Watch for approaching vehicles when getting off and secure your belongings

08

Visitor Reviews & Nearby Exploration

Voices from Plaza San Martín: Real Testimonies from Google Maps

MG
María G.
2024-12-15
★★★★★

Un lugar histórico muy importante en Lima. La estatua ecuestre de San Martín es impresionante y la plaza tiene una arquitectura hermosa.

Google
JS
John S.
2024-11-20
★★★★☆

Beautiful historic square in Lima. The San Martín statue is majestic. Great place to start exploring the historic center of Lima.

Google
CR
Carlos R.
2024-10-10
★★★★★

Plaza San Martín es un lugar emblemático de Lima. Muy cerca de la Plaza de Armas. Ideal para caminar y conocer la historia.

Google
李
李明
2024-09-15
★★★★☆

圣马丁广场是利马历史中心的重要景点。圣马丁将军的雕像很壮观，周围有很多历史建筑可以参观。

Google
AP
Ana P.
2024-08-05
★★★★★

Hermoso lugar histórico. La plaza está muy bien ubicada en el centro de Lima. Perfecto para tomar fotos y conocer la historia.

Google
RW
Robert W.
2024-07-20
★★★★☆

Nice historic square with the San Martín monument. Good starting point for exploring Lima's historic center. Within walking distance to Plaza de Armas.

Google

Nearby Walking Distances Attractions

After visiting Plaza San Martín, you can easily walk to the following attractions:

📍 Plaza de Armas

The historic center of Lima, featuring Lima Cathedral, Government Palace, and other important historic buildings.

📍 Basílica y Convento de San Francisco

A famous colonial-era building, known for its catacombs and library.

📍 Catedral de Lima

A magnificent church built in the 16th century, one of Lima's most important religious buildings.

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09

Frequently Asked Questions

Learn More About Plaza San Martín

10

Map Location

Av. Nicolás de Piérola cdra. 9 Lima 15001 Peru (Lima Historic Center)

View Location on Google Maps