Asilo Colonia de la Magdalena (Lima) en 1920

Hospital Víctor Larco Herrera

Hospital Víctor Larco Herrera: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Visitor Information in Lima, Peru

Date: 15/06/2025

Introduction

Hospital Víctor Larco Herrera is a historic and culturally significant psychiatric institution in Lima, Peru, recognized for its pioneering role in mental health care, architectural value, and public education. Established in the early 20th century, it has evolved from a place of custodial care to a beacon of humane psychiatric treatment and social advocacy. This detailed guide provides essential information on visiting the hospital, including its museum and library, ticketing, accessibility, and travel tips, as well as insights into its historical and societal importance (Gob.pe; Wikipedia).

Historical view of Asilo Colonia Víctor Larco Herrera in the 1920s

Historical Overview

Foundations and Evolution

The roots of Hospital Víctor Larco Herrera date back to the 19th century, originating as the Hospital Civil de La Misericordia (Manicomio del Cercado) in 1859. This institution marked an early move toward more humane psychiatric care in Peru, influenced by the global “alienism” movement that promoted therapeutic treatment and social reintegration. In 1918, the Asilo Colonia de Magdalena was established to address overcrowding and provide modern psychiatric care, thanks to the support of philanthropist Víctor Larco Herrera. The hospital was renamed in his honor in 1930, signifying its expanded mission and societal value (Gob.pe).

Under the leadership of figures such as Dr. Hermilio Valdizán and Enrique Encinas Franco, the hospital became a center for psychiatric research and innovation in Latin America. Its history reflects changing social attitudes toward mental illness and the ongoing fight against stigma. By the late 20th century, the hospital had modernized its facilities and care models, emphasizing community integration and patient rights (Larco Herrera 2023 PDF; El Comercio).

Cultural and Societal Significance

A Pillar of Peruvian Psychiatric Care

Hospital Víctor Larco Herrera is regarded as the birthplace of modern psychiatry in Peru. It has trained generations of mental health professionals and led national initiatives for the prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation of psychiatric conditions (DePeru). Its ongoing public outreach, including educational programs and guided tours, helps destigmatize mental illness and encourages open discussion within society.

Museum and Library: Preserving Psychiatric Heritage

The hospital hosts the Museum of the History of Psychiatry and the Enrique Encinas Library, both central to its mission of public education and cultural preservation. The museum’s collection includes historical documents, medical instruments, and patient art, offering visitors a comprehensive view of the evolution of psychiatric care in Peru (Larco Herrera Guided Visit; Infobae). The library supports research in psychiatry and related fields, making it invaluable to academics and the general public alike (Biblioteca Enrique Encinas).

Practical Visitor Information

Location and Access

Address: Av. del Ejército 600, Magdalena del Mar, Lima, Peru (Google Maps)
Entrance: Gate No. 3 is the primary visitor access point (hospital official site)
Parking: On-site at S/. 4.00 per hour; cash only

Visiting Hours

Museum and Library: Tuesday to Sunday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Hospital (medical services): Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM (no visitor access to treatment areas)

Tickets and Guided Tours

Museum/Library Admission:
- Students: S/. 3.00 (with valid university ID)
- General Public: S/. 5.00
- Payment: Cash only, at the external consultation cashier (museum info)
Guided Tours:
- Advance online registration required (minimum seven business days ahead)
- Tours are held Tuesday to Saturday and last about two hours
- English-speaking guides available with prior request
- Photography without flash permitted; photos of patients/staff are strictly prohibited

Accessibility

Wheelchair access at main entrance and through most exhibits; some historic areas may have limited accessibility
Restrooms near the entrance and museum; no food service on site

Entry Procedures

Bring a valid ID for registration
Declare and register electronic devices upon entry (hospital is not responsible for lost items)
Arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled visit for check-in and payment
Children under 15 are discouraged from attending due to sensitive content

Travel Tips

Use public transport or taxi for easy access
Dress comfortably and bring sun protection for outdoor areas
Bring water, especially in warmer months

What to Expect: Visitor Experience

Museum and Library

The museum’s displays include:

Original psychiatric instruments (straitjackets, cages, electroshock devices)
Historical patient records and photographs
Patient-created artworks and therapeutic objects
Exhibits documenting both the difficult and progressive aspects of psychiatric care in Peru (Patrimonio Salud PDF)

The Enrique Encinas Library features rare books, journals, and archival materials on psychiatry and medical history.

Guided Tour Highlights

Walks through the hospital’s gardens and historic pavilions
Explanations of architectural features and their therapeutic purpose
Discussions on the shift from custodial to community-based mental health care
Interactive exhibits like reconstructed patient rooms

Atmosphere

Tours are respectful and educational, focusing on empathy, history, and the advancement of mental health care. The campus blends early 20th-century and modern architecture, surrounded by serene gardens (El Comercio).

Respectful Engagement and Ethical Considerations

Do not interact with patients or enter treatment areas
Maintain quiet, respectful behavior throughout your visit
Use discretion with sensitive content and displays

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the visiting hours for the museum and library?
A: Tuesday to Sunday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

Q: How do I book a guided tour?
A: Register online via the official website at least seven business days in advance.

Q: Are there ticket fees?
A: S/. 3.00 for students (with valid ID), S/. 5.00 for general public.

Q: Is the museum accessible for people with disabilities?
A: Yes, most areas are wheelchair accessible, but some historic buildings may have limitations.

Q: Can I take photos during the visit?
A: Yes, without flash, but not of patients or staff.

Q: Is parking available?
A: Yes, S/. 4.00 per hour, cash only.

Q: Is the hospital still an active treatment center?
A: Yes, with over 400 inpatients and many outpatients; patient privacy and respect are paramount (El Comercio).

Visuals and Multimedia Resources

High-quality images of the hospital’s historic facade, museum exhibits, and patient artwork (available on the official site)
Interactive maps of the grounds and nearby Lima attractions
Virtual tours for remote engagement

Explore More and Stay Connected

Download the Audiala app for guided audio tours, event notifications, and exclusive multimedia
Follow Hospital Víctor Larco Herrera on Instagram (@HospitalHVLH) and Facebook for updates

Conclusion

Hospital Víctor Larco Herrera stands as a symbol of progress in mental health care, cultural heritage, and social advocacy in Peru. Its museum and library invite visitors to explore the evolution of psychiatric treatment, challenge stigma, and engage with the country’s medical history. By planning your visit, respecting institutional protocols, and participating in guided tours, you contribute to the ongoing dialogue around mental health and societal change. For the latest information and enriched visitor experiences, consult the official hospital website and download the Audiala app.