Casa de Aliaga Lima
Step into history at Casa de Aliaga, Lima's oldest continuously inhabited colonial mansion, owned by the same family for 17 generations since 1535.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more intimate tour
Casa de Aliaga Lima
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more intimate tour
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step into history at Casa de Aliaga, Lima's oldest continuously inhabited colonial mansion, owned by the same family for 17 generations since 1535.
"A fascinating glimpse into history as the oldest continuously inhabited residence in the Americas."
⏳ Book Guided Tours Ahead
Essential for entry! Tours are mandatory and offer deep historical insights. Book in advance to secure your spot.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking through historic rooms and courtyards. Comfort is key for enjoying the tour fully.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Aliaga Family Courtyard
Central Courtyard
A peaceful oasis with a fountain and lush garden, offering a serene escape and a glimpse into the home's enduring beauty.
Colonial Architecture
Throughout the mansion
Marvel at the original structures dating back to 1536, showcasing intricate colonial design and historical preservation.
Generational Legacy
Throughout the mansion
Witness how 17 generations of the Aliaga family have preserved their ancestral home, a testament to enduring heritage.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Guided Tour in Advance
Embrace the History: It's a Living Museum
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
⏳ Book Guided Tours Ahead
Essential for entry! Tours are mandatory and offer deep historical insights. Book in advance to secure your spot.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking through historic rooms and courtyards. Comfort is key for enjoying the tour fully.
📸 Capture the Details
The architecture and furnishings are stunning. Bring your camera to document this unique historical residence.
💰 Check Tour Costs
Prices can vary, with some mentioning around S/.20-30 with a guide. Confirm current rates when booking.
Tips
from all over the internet
⏳ Book Guided Tours Ahead
Essential for entry! Tours are mandatory and offer deep historical insights. Book in advance to secure your spot.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking through historic rooms and courtyards. Comfort is key for enjoying the tour fully.
📸 Capture the Details
The architecture and furnishings are stunning. Bring your camera to document this unique historical residence.
💰 Check Tour Costs
Prices can vary, with some mentioning around S/.20-30 with a guide. Confirm current rates when booking.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Casa de Aliaga is widely praised as a fascinating glimpse into Lima's colonial past, with visitors appreciating its status as the oldest continuously inhabited home in the Americas and the unique experience of touring a private residence. The historical significance and well-preserved interiors are major draws, though some find the tours brief and the cost high for the duration.
"Casa Aliaga, located in Lima, Peru, is a fascinating glimpse into history as the oldest continuously inhabited residence in the Americas—and possibly all of South America. Founded in 1535, it has been home to 17 generations of descendants of the original owner, Captain Jerónimo de Aliaga. Since the family still lives there, tours are only available with a guide, but this adds to the exclusive and intimate feel of the experience. The guided tour is highly worthwhile, offering a unique perspective on colonial architecture, family legacy, and Peruvian history all under one roof."
M
"A must stop when in Lima. Beautiful home with amazing history behind it all. One of the oldest homes in Latin America."
Nas Sol
"Beautiful home dating back to the Spanish conquest. It is fairly small, but very well maintained with many beautiful furnishings. A great stop (about 30 min.) for anyone who loves history or antiques.
You must have a guide to enter. We did not come with a guide, but thankfully a free guide was available to take us through the home, and she turned out to be excellent - thanks, Milagros!"
Kimberly R.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Casa de Aliaga is conveniently located in the Historic Centre of Lima at Jr. de la Unión 224. You can easily reach it by taxi, ride-sharing app, or by walking if you are already exploring the city center. Many visitors find it a pleasant walk from other central attractions.
While direct bus routes might be complex, many public buses stop near the Historic Centre of Lima. From there, it's a short walk to the mansion. Using a ride-sharing app is often the most straightforward option for tourists.
Arriving by taxi or ride-share directly to Jirón de la Unión 224 is recommended. This ensures you're dropped off right at the entrance, ready for your tour.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, advance booking for a guided tour is essential as Casa de Aliaga is a private residence. Tours are the only way to enter and experience the mansion.
The mansion is typically open from Monday to Sunday, between 10 AM and 4 PM. However, it's crucial to check their official hours or book through a tour operator as these can sometimes vary.
The cost usually includes a mandatory guided tour. Prices mentioned range from S/.20 to S/.30, with some sources indicating a total cost of S/.55-60 per person including the guide. Always confirm the current price when booking.
No, entry to Casa de Aliaga is exclusively through a guided tour. The family still resides there, making guided visits a requirement for all visitors.
Tours are generally quite brief, often around 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the group size and guide. Some visitors found it short, around 20 minutes.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You'll see beautifully preserved colonial rooms, courtyards, and historical furnishings. The tour highlights the architecture and the legacy of the Aliaga family, who have lived there for 17 generations. 
Most visitors find the guided tours very informative, offering unique insights into the family's history and the mansion's architecture. However, one review mentioned the guide's content was 'very poor' when asked questions.
Yes, the interiors and courtyards offer beautiful photographic opportunities. Remember to be respectful of the private residence and follow any specific photography guidelines provided by your guide.
Given the tour length, allocate about 1 hour in total, including arrival and departure. It's a relatively quick but impactful visit.
It's described as a fairly small but well-maintained home. The focus is on the historical significance and the family's legacy rather than vastness.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Casa de Aliaga is a historical residence and museum, not a restaurant. There are no dining facilities within the mansion itself. However, the Historic Centre of Lima offers numerous cafes and restaurants nearby.
The Historic Centre of Lima is brimming with culinary options. You can find traditional Peruvian cuisine, cafes, and international food just a short walk away from the mansion.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed inside Casa de Aliaga, but it's always best to confirm with your guide upon arrival. Be mindful of flash usage and respect the private nature of the home.
The central courtyard with its fountain and greenery is a popular spot. Many of the rooms, with their preserved furnishings and colonial architecture, also make for stunning photos.
While generally permitted, some specific areas or artifacts might have restrictions. Always listen to your guide's instructions regarding photography to ensure you don't disturb the residence or damage any items.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tips for families: Ensure children are briefed on the importance of respecting a private home. The courtyard can be a nice spot for them to observe. Consider if your children have the patience for a guided tour; a 30-minute duration is usually manageable.
🏛️ History Buffs & Architecture Enthusiasts
+1Highlights for enthusiasts: Pay close attention to the architectural details, the evolution of the house through different eras, and the stories of the Aliaga family's influence. The guided tour is crucial for understanding the historical context and significance of what you're seeing.
📸 Photographers
Photography tips: Focus on capturing the details of the architecture, the textures of the old walls, and the preserved furnishings. Be mindful of your guide's instructions regarding photography, especially concerning flash usage or specific sensitive areas. The limited time might require you to be quick and decisive with your shots.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Living Piece of History: The Aliaga Family Legacy
+1 The fact that descendants still reside here adds a unique, intimate layer to the visitor experience, offering a rare glimpse into a family's multi-century connection to their ancestral home.During your guided tour, you'll learn about the family's history, their role in Lima's development, and how they've preserved the mansion through earthquakes and the passage of time. The architecture itself tells a story, with elements dating back to the 16th century, alongside later renovations and additions that reflect different eras. It’s a living museum where history isn't just displayed, but actively lived.
This continuous inhabitation is what sets Casa de Aliaga apart. Unlike many historical sites that are purely museums, here you are stepping into a home that has been a vibrant part of a family's life for over 480 years. The guides, often members of the family or deeply knowledgeable about its history, share personal anecdotes and historical facts, making the visit both educational and deeply personal.
Exploring the Architecture and Design
The original structure has undergone modifications over the centuries, notably after the devastating 1746 Lima earthquake, but the core historical essence remains. Visitors often remark on the beauty of the central courtyard, a common feature in colonial architecture designed to provide light, ventilation, and a private outdoor space. The courtyard at Casa de Aliaga, with its fountain and greenery, is particularly noted for its tranquility and aesthetic appeal.
Inside, you'll find rooms adorned with period furniture, artwork, and decorative elements that offer a glimpse into the lifestyle of the Aliaga family across different generations. The preservation of these interiors is a key aspect of the visitor experience. Key architectural elements to look out for include the intricate stonework, wooden balconies, and the overall layout that reflects the social hierarchy and daily life of colonial Lima. The mansion’s ability to withstand time and seismic activity speaks to the quality of its original construction and subsequent careful restoration efforts.
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