Why Lima is known as The City of Kings?

Lima, is the capital and the largest city of Peru. It was founded in 1535 by the Spanish conquistador Francisco Pizarro and has been called many things throughout its history, but the title that most endures is the "City of Kings". But, why is it called Lima and what is the story behind?

There are different versions about because Lima takes the name City of The Kings, the most well-known references that Francisco Pizarro began a search of the ideal place to establish the capital of the Viceroyalty January 6; the day on which catholics celebrate the Epiphany (with the arrival of the Magi to the manger of Bethlehem), and some of the other indicated it was in honor of the Kings of Spain. Whatever has been the reason why it was decided to christen the city with this title, during the colonial period, the city of Lima became the center of the festivities of the Epiphany in South america. The Magi were the patrons of the city and the festival is celebrated with great pomp.

The celebration of the Epiphany in Lima became an opportunity for the inhabitants of the city to display their wealth and power. The feast was extended for several days and were parades, bullfighting, processions and dances. The nobility and the local authorities were organized by gala balls and banquets at their homes to show their wealth and status. The city is filled with visitors from other parts of South america and Europe, and Lima became one of the cities most important of South America. 

With time, the title "City of the Kings" became the official name of Lima. The name was formalized in the SEVENTEENTH century and since then it has been used as the official name of the city. Although the celebration of the Epiphany has lost some of its importance over the years, the name is still used as the official name of the city and reflects the rich history and culture of Lima. If you have the chance to visit it, be sure to explore its historic centre with TURIBUSvisit museums and try out delicious cuisine.