Chiclayo is the capital of the Lambayeque region in northern Peru, situated only 13 kilometers away from the Pacific coast. Why is it so popular among tourists and what is worth seeing and eating here?
The town was founded in the 16th century by Spanish settlers and named Santa Maria de los Valles de Chiclayo. It was located near an important prehistoric village that had been inhabited for centuries by the people of Wari culture. Today, the fourth largest city in Peru is called simply “Chiclayo”. Terms such as the capital of friendship or the pearl of the north are also used. The whole region of Lambayeque is considered the most attractive for tourists, mainly due to the perfectly preserved remains of Moche and Sican civilizations. The top places of interest include royal tombs of ancient lords of Moche discovered in 1987, the tomb of Sipán emperor, and the pyramids of Túcume.
A must-see in the heart of the city is the neoclassical cathedral famous throughout Peru. It was built in 1869 according to a project and sketches by Gustave Eiffel. More places worth visiting include the glamorous city palace at 823 Calle San Jose built between 1919 and 1924, and La Verónica chapel at 294 Torres Street, which was erected at the end of the 19th century and recognized as the national monument of Peru in the 1980s.
The north Peruvian cuisine is considered the tastiest in the country. It is based on lime juice and fresh fish and sea fruit. Fish are often served with hot pepper sauce and boiled corn cob. Another popular dish is El Chinguirito – dried fish with lemon, red chili, and red onions, served with corn and manioc. Specialties of Chiclayo include Arroz con Pato (duck with rice), Seco de Cabrito (goat stew) or Chirimpico (goat or chicken liver goulash with boiled blood and spices). Restaurant Romana, Mi Tia, and El Pescador are the best-recommended places to eat here.
