Comprehensive Guide to Visiting Paseo De Aguas Lima Peru

Date: 18/08/2024

Introduction

Located in the Jirón Madera of the Rímac District in Lima, Peru, Paseo de Aguas is a historical promenade that has long been a captivating site for visitors. Constructed between 1770 and 1776 under the direction of Viceroy Manuel de Amat y Juniet, this iconic landmark was inspired by a water feature in Narbonne, France. Despite initial opposition from local residents concerned about water supply, the promenade quickly became a popular recreational space (Turismo Peruano).

Paseo de Aguas is not just an architectural marvel but a cultural landmark as well. The promenade’s design, featuring a waterfall, gardens, and fountains, reflects the international influences of the time and the colonial architecture of the 18th century. It holds a special place in Peruvian culture and history, with myths suggesting it was built to flatter Viceroy Amat’s lover, the singer and actress Micaela Villegas, also known as La Perricholi (UNESCO).

In recent years, significant restoration efforts have revitalized the Paseo de Aguas, making it a must-visit destination for both locals and tourists. This guide provides comprehensive visitor information, including historical context, architectural highlights, and practical travel tips, ensuring an enriching experience for anyone looking to explore this remarkable site.

Table of Contents

History of Paseo de Aguas

Construction and Early Years

The Paseo de Aguas, initially named Paseo de la Carbona, was constructed between 1770 and 1776 under the direction of Viceroy Manuel de Amat y Juniet. Inspired by a water feature in Narbonne, France, the promenade was designed to include a waterfall, gardens, fountains, and other water features. Despite opposition from local residents concerned about water supply, the Paseo de Aguas was inaugurated in 1772, though it remained unfinished. It quickly became a popular recreational space, reflecting the international influences of the time (Turismo Peruano).

19th Century Developments

By the mid-19th century, the Paseo de Aguas had evolved to include a tram station and its offices, marking a significant shift in its use and importance. In 1856, both the Paseo de Aguas and the nearby Alameda de los Descalzos were redesigned, including the installation of a wrought-iron fence imported from England and large entrance gates, as well as the placement of 100 marble benches and 12 zodiac statues made of Carrara marble.

20th Century to Present

The early 20th century saw further changes and restorations. In 1938, the archery of the Paseo de Aguas was restored, and by the 1950s, the site had become a run-down municipal garden known for hosting the San Juan festival. Significant efforts to revitalize the Paseo de Aguas began in the 21st century. In 2014, the Municipality of Lima initiated extensive remodeling works, and by July 2015, renovations were completed, restoring the promenade to its former glory.

Architectural Features

The Paseo de Aguas is characterized by its distinctive architectural features, including a larger central arch and a sequence of lower arches on both sides, crowned by a succession of oculi and pinnacles. These elements reflect the colonial architecture of the 18th century. The promenade is connected by the Hulgayoc street to the Alameda de los Descalzos and by the Alameda de Bobos to the Acho bullring, highlighting the integrated design of Lima’s historical recreational spaces.

Cultural Significance

The Paseo de Aguas holds a special place in Peruvian culture and history. A popular myth recorded by Ricardo Palma in his book “Peruvian Traditions” suggests that Viceroy Manuel de Amat y Juniet built the promenade to flatter his lover, the singer and actress Micaela Villegas, also known as La Perricholi. In 1781, Villegas acquired a house-mill located between the Paseo de Aguas and the Alameda de los Descalzos, further cementing her connection to the area.

Modern-Day Relevance

Today, the Paseo de Aguas continues to be a significant landmark in Lima. The 2014-2015 renovations have revitalized the promenade, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists. The gardens, fountains, and water features have been restored, providing a picturesque setting for leisure and recreation.

Visitor Information

  • Visiting Hours: The Paseo de Aguas is typically open daily from 9 AM to 6 PM. However, it’s advisable to check the official website or contact local authorities for any updates or changes to operating hours.
  • Tickets: Entry to the Paseo de Aguas is free of charge. Special events or guided tours may have associated costs, so it’s best to verify this information in advance.
  • Accessibility: The promenade is accessible to visitors with disabilities, with pathways and facilities designed to accommodate all visitors.
  • Travel Tips: Wear comfortable shoes for walking, bring water, and consider visiting early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the midday heat.

Nearby Attractions

  • Alameda de los Descalzos: A historic promenade featuring beautiful gardens and pathways, located nearby.
  • Acho Bullring: The oldest bullring in the Americas, offering a glimpse into Lima’s cultural heritage.

FAQs

  • Is there an entry fee for Paseo de Aguas? No, entry is free of charge.
  • What are the best times to visit? Early mornings or late afternoons are ideal to avoid the heat.
  • Are guided tours available? Yes, guided tours are available and can provide a deeper insight into the history and significance of the promenade.

Conclusion

Paseo de Aguas in Lima, Peru, offers a unique blend of historical significance, architectural beauty, and cultural richness. From its inception in the 18th century under Viceroy Manuel de Amat y Juniet to its modern-day restoration efforts, the promenade stands as a testament to Lima’s colonial past and its ongoing commitment to preserving its heritage. Visitors can enjoy a serene stroll through its gardens, marvel at its architectural features, and delve into its storied history, making it an ideal destination for history enthusiasts, architecture lovers, and casual travelers alike (Circuito Mágico del Agua).

The promenade’s recent renovations have restored its former glory, making it a significant landmark in Lima once again. Whether you’re exploring the nearby Alameda de los Descalzos or the historic Acho Bullring, a visit to Paseo de Aguas offers a picturesque and educational experience. Plan your visit to fully appreciate the rich history and beauty of this iconic site, and don’t forget to check for special events or guided tours to enhance your visit (Evolution Treks Peru).

References

  • Turismo Peruano. Paseo de Aguas, Lima. source
  • UNESCO. Historic Centre of Lima. source
  • Circuito Mágico del Agua. source
  • Evolution Treks Peru. Circuito Mágico del Agua. source

Visit The Most Interesting Places In Lima

Alameda Chabuca Granda
Alameda Chabuca Granda
Alameda De Los Descalzos
Alameda De Los Descalzos
Angamos Station
Angamos Station
|
  Archbishop'S Palace Of Lima
| Archbishop'S Palace Of Lima
Archivo General De La Nación Del Perú
Archivo General De La Nación Del Perú
Arco Chino
Arco Chino
Atocongo Station
Atocongo Station
Avenida Elmer Faucett
Avenida Elmer Faucett
Avenida Nicolás De Piérola
Avenida Nicolás De Piérola
Avenida Salaverry
Avenida Salaverry
Ayacucho Station
Ayacucho Station
Bap Abtao
Bap Abtao
Bar Cordano
Bar Cordano
Barrio Chino
Barrio Chino
|
  Biblioteca Del Congreso De La República "César Vallejo"
| Biblioteca Del Congreso De La República "César Vallejo"
Bolognesi Square
Bolognesi Square
Cabitos Station
Cabitos Station
Caja De Agua
Caja De Agua
Cajamarquilla
Cajamarquilla
Casa Alcántara
Casa Alcántara
Casa Aliaga, Lima
Casa Aliaga, Lima
Casa De Las Trece Monedas
Casa De Las Trece Monedas
Casa Del Oidor
Casa Del Oidor
Casa Del Pueblo
Casa Del Pueblo
Casa Goyeneche
Casa Goyeneche
Casa Matusita
Casa Matusita
Casa Museo José Carlos Mariátegui
Casa Museo José Carlos Mariátegui
|
  Casa O'Higgins
| Casa O'Higgins
Castillo Rospigliosi
Castillo Rospigliosi
Cathedral Of Lima
Cathedral Of Lima
Cayetano Heredia University
Cayetano Heredia University
Chocavento Tower
Chocavento Tower
Chorrillos
Chorrillos
Church Of Nuestra Señora De Copacabana
Church Of Nuestra Señora De Copacabana
Church Of San Agustín, Lima
Church Of San Agustín, Lima
Científica Del Sur University
Científica Del Sur University
Cine Conquistador
Cine Conquistador
Cine Tauro
Cine Tauro
Colegio Real De La Universidad De San Marcos
Colegio Real De La Universidad De San Marcos
Colli Museum
Colli Museum
Corazón De María, Magdalena Del Mar
Corazón De María, Magdalena Del Mar
Costa Verde Pan-American Complex
Costa Verde Pan-American Complex
Cripta De Los Héroes
Cripta De Los Héroes
Cristo Del Pacífico
Cristo Del Pacífico
Damero De Pizarro
Damero De Pizarro
Edificio Petroperú
Edificio Petroperú
Edificio Rímac
Edificio Rímac
El Ángel Station
El Ángel Station
El Campo De Marte
El Campo De Marte
El Paraíso
El Paraíso
Embassy Of Argentina, Lima
Embassy Of Argentina, Lima
Embassy Of Colombia, Lima
Embassy Of Colombia, Lima
Embassy Of Poland, Lima
Embassy Of Poland, Lima
Embassy Of Russia In Peru
Embassy Of Russia In Peru
Embassy Of South Korea, Lima
Embassy Of South Korea, Lima
Embassy Of Sweden, Lima
Embassy Of Sweden, Lima
|
  Embassy Of The People'S Republic Of China, Lima
| Embassy Of The People'S Republic Of China, Lima
Embassy Of The State Of Palestine, Lima
Embassy Of The State Of Palestine, Lima
Embassy Of The United Arab Emirates, Lima
Embassy Of The United Arab Emirates, Lima
Embassy Of Ukraine, Lima
Embassy Of Ukraine, Lima
Emporio Comercial De Gamarra
Emporio Comercial De Gamarra
Ermita De Barranco
Ermita De Barranco
Esan University
Esan University
Escuela Nacional Superior Autónoma De Bellas Artes
Escuela Nacional Superior Autónoma De Bellas Artes
Estadio Universidad San Marcos
Estadio Universidad San Marcos
Fort Of Santa Catalina
Fort Of Santa Catalina
Gamarra
Gamarra
Gold Museum Of Peru And Weapons Of The World
Gold Museum Of Peru And Weapons Of The World
Government Palace
Government Palace
Gran Hotel Bolivar Lima
Gran Hotel Bolivar Lima
Gran Teatro Nacional
Gran Teatro Nacional
Hipódromo De Monterrico
Hipódromo De Monterrico
Historic Centre Of Lima
Historic Centre Of Lima
Hospital De La Misericordia, Lima
Hospital De La Misericordia, Lima
|
  Hospital Nacional "Arzobispo Loayza"
| Hospital Nacional "Arzobispo Loayza"
Hospital Víctor Larco Herrera
Hospital Víctor Larco Herrera
Huaca Fortaleza De Campoy
Huaca Fortaleza De Campoy
Huaca Huallamarca
Huaca Huallamarca
Huaca Melgarejo
Huaca Melgarejo
Huaca Pucllana
Huaca Pucllana
Instituto Nacional De Ciencias Neurológicas
Instituto Nacional De Ciencias Neurológicas
Instituto Nacional Materno Perinatal
Instituto Nacional Materno Perinatal
Javier Prado Avenue
Javier Prado Avenue
Jirón Gamarra
Jirón Gamarra
Jockey Club Del Perú
Jockey Club Del Perú
Jorge Chávez Station
Jorge Chávez Station
Jw Marriott Hotel Lima
Jw Marriott Hotel Lima
La Casona De San Marcos
La Casona De San Marcos
La Marina Lighthouse
La Marina Lighthouse
La Yunta (Sculpture)
La Yunta (Sculpture)
Larco Museum
Larco Museum
Larcomar
Larcomar
Las Llamas
Las Llamas
Legislative Palace Of Peru
Legislative Palace Of Peru
Lima Art Museum
Lima Art Museum
Lima Mint
Lima Mint
Lima Peru Temple
Lima Peru Temple
Limatambo International Airport
Limatambo International Airport
Los Jardines Station (Lima Metro)
Los Jardines Station (Lima Metro)
Los Postes Station
Los Postes Station
Luis Gálvez Chipoco Stadium
Luis Gálvez Chipoco Stadium
Malecón De Miraflores
Malecón De Miraflores
María Auxiliadora Station
María Auxiliadora Station
Mesa Redonda
Mesa Redonda
Metropolitan Museum Of Lima
Metropolitan Museum Of Lima
Miguel Grau Station
Miguel Grau Station
Monasterio De Santa Rosa De Lima
Monasterio De Santa Rosa De Lima
Monument To César Vallejo
Monument To César Vallejo
Monument To The Unknown Soldier, Lima
Monument To The Unknown Soldier, Lima
Morro Solar
Morro Solar
Morro Solar Planetarium
Morro Solar Planetarium
Museo De Arqueología Y Antropología
Museo De Arqueología Y Antropología
Museo De Arte De La Universidad Nacional Mayor De San Marcos
Museo De Arte De La Universidad Nacional Mayor De San Marcos
Museo De La Electricidad
Museo De La Electricidad
Museo De La Inquisición Y Del Congreso
Museo De La Inquisición Y Del Congreso
Museo Del Banco Central De Reserva Del Perú
Museo Del Banco Central De Reserva Del Perú
Museo Electoral Y De La Democracia
Museo Electoral Y De La Democracia
Museo Nacional De La Cultura Peruana
Museo Nacional De La Cultura Peruana
Museo Pedro De Osma
Museo Pedro De Osma
Museum Of Italian Art
Museum Of Italian Art
Museum Of Natural History, Lima
Museum Of Natural History, Lima
Museum Of The Brain
Museum Of The Brain
Museum Of The Fighters Of Morro De Arica
Museum Of The Fighters Of Morro De Arica
Naranjal
Naranjal
National Afro-Peruvian Museum
National Afro-Peruvian Museum
National Agrarian University
National Agrarian University
National Library Of Peru
National Library Of Peru
National Museum Of Archaeology, Anthropology, And History Of Peru
National Museum Of Archaeology, Anthropology, And History Of Peru
National University Of Engineering
National University Of Engineering
National University Of Music
National University Of Music
National University Of San Marcos
National University Of San Marcos
Nicolás Arriola Station
Nicolás Arriola Station
Obelisk Honoring Doctors Who Died Of Covid-19
Obelisk Honoring Doctors Who Died Of Covid-19
Osambela House
Osambela House
Pachacamac
Pachacamac
Palacio De La Exposición
Palacio De La Exposición
Palacio Veneciano
Palacio Veneciano
Panteón De Los Próceres
Panteón De Los Próceres
Park Of The Exposition
Park Of The Exposition
Park Of The Reserve
Park Of The Reserve
Parque De La Muralla
Parque De La Muralla
Parque El Olivar
Parque El Olivar
Parque Industrial Station
Parque Industrial Station
Paseo De Aguas
Paseo De Aguas
Paseo De La República, Lima
Paseo De La República, Lima
Paseo De Los Héroes Navales
Paseo De Los Héroes Navales
Peruvian Union University
Peruvian Union University
Peruvian University Of Applied Sciences
Peruvian University Of Applied Sciences
Pinacoteca Municipal Ignacio Merino
Pinacoteca Municipal Ignacio Merino
Pirámide Del Sol Station
Pirámide Del Sol Station
Place Of Memory, Tolerance And Social Inclusion
Place Of Memory, Tolerance And Social Inclusion
Plaza Bolívar
Plaza Bolívar
Plaza Dos De Mayo
Plaza Dos De Mayo
Plaza Grau
Plaza Grau
Plaza Italia
Plaza Italia
Plaza Mayor, Lima
Plaza Mayor, Lima
Plaza Perú
Plaza Perú
Plaza Ramón Castilla
Plaza Ramón Castilla
Plaza San Martín
Plaza San Martín
Plazoleta De La Merced
Plazoleta De La Merced
Plazuela Federico Elguera
Plazuela Federico Elguera
Pontifical Catholic University Of Peru
Pontifical Catholic University Of Peru
Presbítero Maestro Station
Presbítero Maestro Station
Puente Balta
Puente Balta
Puente De Piedra
Puente De Piedra
Pumacahua Station
Pumacahua Station
Puruchuco
Puruchuco
Quinta De Presa
Quinta De Presa
Quinta Heeren
Quinta Heeren
Real Felipe Fortress
Real Felipe Fortress
Ricardo Palma University
Ricardo Palma University
Royal Hospital Of Saint Andrew
Royal Hospital Of Saint Andrew
Sagrario Metropolitano De Lima
Sagrario Metropolitano De Lima
San Borja Sur Station
San Borja Sur Station
San Carlos Station
San Carlos Station
San Juan Station
San Juan Station
San Martín Station
San Martín Station
San Miguel
San Miguel
San Sebastián
San Sebastián
Santa Anita Market
Santa Anita Market
Santa Rosa Station (Lima Metro)
Santa Rosa Station (Lima Metro)
Santa Teresita Del Niño Jesús Church
Santa Teresita Del Niño Jesús Church
Santiago De Surco
Santiago De Surco
Santo Cristo
Santo Cristo
Santuario De Santa Rosa De Lima
Santuario De Santa Rosa De Lima
Seminario De Lima
Seminario De Lima
Sharon Synagogue
Sharon Synagogue
Sheraton Lima Hotel & Convention Center
Sheraton Lima Hotel & Convention Center
Sinagoga 1870
Sinagoga 1870
Statue Of Liberty
Statue Of Liberty
Teatro Colón
Teatro Colón
Teatro Manuel Ascencio Segura
Teatro Manuel Ascencio Segura
Teatro Municipal
Teatro Municipal
Teatro Peruano Japonés
Teatro Peruano Japonés
The Eye That Cries
The Eye That Cries
Torre Alemana
Torre Alemana
Torre Banco De La Nación
Torre Banco De La Nación
Torre Interbank
Torre Interbank
Torre Tagle Palace
Torre Tagle Palace
Universidad Alas Peruanas
Universidad Alas Peruanas
Universidad Antonio Ruiz De Montoya
Universidad Antonio Ruiz De Montoya
Universidad Del Pacifico
Universidad Del Pacifico
|
  Universidad "Inca Garcilaso De La Vega"
| Universidad "Inca Garcilaso De La Vega"
Universidad Nacional Federico Villarreal
Universidad Nacional Federico Villarreal
Universidad San Ignacio De Loyola
Universidad San Ignacio De Loyola
Universidad Tecnológica Del Perú
Universidad Tecnológica Del Perú
University Of Engineering And Technology
University Of Engineering And Technology
University Of Lima
University Of Lima
University Of San Martín De Porres
University Of San Martín De Porres
University Park
University Park
University Theatre (Lima)
University Theatre (Lima)
Villa Deportiva Nacional
Villa Deportiva Nacional
Villa El Salvador
Villa El Salvador
Villa María Station
Villa María Station
Walls Of Lima
Walls Of Lima
Westin Lima Hotel & Convention Center
Westin Lima Hotel & Convention Center