Museums & galleries
National Museum of Archaeology, Anthropology, and History of Peru
National Museum of Archaeology, Anthropology, and History of Peru
Located in the Magdalena Palace in the Pueblo Libre district, this is the oldest and largest museum in Peru. It serves as a comprehensive archive of the country's timeline, housing over 100,000 artifacts. Visitors go here to see significant historical pieces, such as the Raimondi Stele and a detailed model of Machu Picchu, spanning from pre-Columbian eras to the colonial period.
Getting There
The museum is located outside the immediate historic center of Lima. From the city centre, you can reach the site via taxi or taxi. Depending on traffic conditions, the journey typically takes between 20 and 40 minutes.
Planning Your Visit
Due to the size of the collection and the breadth of the historical periods covered, allow at least 3 to 4 hours to explore the galleries thoroughly.
When to Visit
To avoid the largest crowds, arrive early in the morning. The museum can become crowded during peak tourist seasons and on weekends. The weather in Lima is relatively consistent year-round, though the city is often overcast from June to October.
Nearby Attractions
The museum is situated in an area with several other cultural sites. You can combine your visit with the following nearby locations:
- Larco Museum (1.1km)
- Teatro Peruano Japonés (1.4km)
- Mosque of Lima (2.1km)
- Sharon Synagogue (2.2km)
Updated September 13, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors
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