Are you a real history buff and are you looking for the best history museums to visit in Peru? These are the ones:
1Basílica and Convent of San Francisco, Lima
LimaThe Basilica San Francisco is a Franciscan monastery church that is situated in the historic center of Lima, the capital of Peru. This church is part of the Archdiocese of Lima and holds the title of a Basilica minor. It is part of the Franciscan monastery, which includes two other churches. The Basilica San Francisco is a significant historical and religious site that offers a glimpse into the rich history and culture of Lima. 2Qoricancha Site Museum
CuscoThe Temple of the Sun, also known as Coricancha, Qorikancha, or Qoricancha, was the most sacred site in the Inca Empire. It is located in Cusco, a city that was the center of the Inca Empire. This site was of great importance to the Incas and was the location of significant ceremonies such as marriages, coronations, and funerals. The mummies of the Inca rulers were also kept here, seated on golden thrones. 3Basilica and Convent of Santo Domingo, Lima
LimaThe three-nave church and monastery with rich facade embellishments and a huge dome is simply unmissable. Note the typical Sevillian tiles. 4Huaca Huallamarca
San IsidroHuaca Huallamarca, alternatively known as Huaca Pan de Azúcar, is an archaeological site situated in Peru. This site holds significant historical and cultural value, making it an interesting destination for those interested in archaeology and history. 5Archbishop's Palace of Lima
LimaThe current Archbishop's Palace of Lima, opened on December 8, 1924, is a prime example of neo-colonial architecture that developed in Lima during the early twentieth century. Its unique architectural style and historical significance make it a point of interest for tourists interested in architecture and history. 6Torre Tagle Palace
LimaThe facade of the Palacio de Torre Tagle is a remarkable example of Andalusian Baroque style. It features carved stone porticos and arches, and two artistic Mudéjar wooden balconies made of cedar and mahogany. The balconies, which are completely closed with blinds with slats, reflect the transition from the Andalusian Mudéjar style to the Hispanic-American Baroque. The windows in the lower part of the house are simple and with wrought iron bars, providing a contrast to the ornate style of the balconies. 7Santa Catalina Monastery Museum
ArequipaThe Santa Catalina Monastery, also known as Convento de Santa Catalina, is a religious tourist complex situated in the historic center of Arequipa, Peru. This monastery was founded on September 10, 1579, and is renowned for its natural beauty and welcoming climate. The architecture of the monastery is unique, constructed from sillar, a white volcanic rock from the Chachani volcano, and pink sillar from the Misti volcano, the latter being a symbol of the city. Despite being located in the heart of the city, the monastery is completely isolated, surrounded by a solid 4-meter high wall. 8Inka Museum
CuscoEl Museo Inka, located in the city of Cusco, Peru, is a university museum that offers a unique insight into the rich history and culture of the region. It is an ideal destination for those interested in learning more about the Inca civilization and the historical significance of Cusco. 9Basilica Cathedral of Arequipa
ArequipaThe Basilica Cathedral of Arequipa, also known as La Catedral de Arequipa, is a significant religious monument dating back to the 17th century. It is one of the earliest of its kind in the city of Arequipa, making it a site of historical and architectural interest. 10National Museum of Archaeology, Anthropology and History of Peru
Pueblo LibreThe National Museum of Archaeology, Anthropology and History of Peru (MNAAHP) holds the distinction of being the oldest museum in Peru. It is conveniently located in Plaza Bolívar, in the Pueblo Libre district of Lima. This location makes it easily accessible for tourists visiting the city. 11Aliaga House
Lima 12Site Museum and Archaeological Sanctuary of Pachacamac
LurínThe Pachacamac archaeological site, situated approximately 30 km from Lima, Peru, is a significant historical location that showcases ruins from different eras, ranging from the Lima civilization (200-600 AD) to the Incas (1450-1530). This site provides a unique opportunity for tourists to explore and understand the rich history and culture of these ancient civilizations. 13Royal Tombs of Sipán Museum
LambayequeThe Royal Tombs of Sipán Museum, located in Lambayeque, Peru, is a significant cultural site that showcases discoveries from the Huaca Rajada complex. This complex is considered the most important funerary complex of the Moche culture discovered to date. The museum offers a unique opportunity to delve into the rich history and culture of the Moche civilization. 14Place of Memory, Tolerance and Social Inclusion
MirafloresThe Place of Memory, Tolerance and Social Inclusion, also known as LUM, is a museum located in Lima, Peru. The museum is dedicated to the internal conflict that took place in Peru during the 1980s and 1990s. It provides a space for the memorialization of the victims of the conflict and encourages discussions on different viewpoints of the conflict. 15National Railway Museum
TacnaThe National Railway Museum of Tacna is a unique destination for those interested in the history of rail transport. Located in the city of Tacna, the museum is primarily dedicated to the history of the Tacna-Arica Railway. It provides a comprehensive insight into the historical process of the railway, making it a fascinating stop for history buffs and railway enthusiasts alike. 16Leymebamba Museum
Dos de MayoThe Leymebamba Museum is an archaeological museum situated at an altitude of 2,400 meters above the small town of Leymebamba, in the Amazonas department of Peru. This location offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the rich history of the region while enjoying the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. 17Huaca Pucllana Site Museum
MirafloresHuaca Pucllana, also known as Huaca Juliana, is a prominent adobe and clay pyramid situated in the Miraflores district of central Lima, Peru. The structure is built from seven staggered platforms, making it a unique architectural marvel.- 18
Museo del Pisco
Cusco - 19
Museo Arqueológico José María Morante
Arequipa 20Andean Sanctuaries Museum
ArequipaThe Andean Sanctuaries Museum, also known as Museo Santuarios Andinos, is an archaeological museum located in Arequipa, Peru. It was established in 1996 with the primary aim of conserving the archaeological artifacts from the High Sanctuaries of the South Andean project. This project was initiated in 1980 by archaeologists José Chavéz and Johan Reinhard in the southern mountains of Peru. 21Museo Histórico Regional del Cuzco
CuscoThe Museo Histórico Regional de Cusco is situated in the city of Cusco, within the department of Cusco, Peru. This location is easily accessible for tourists visiting the city and offers a rich historical experience. 22Museum of the Inquisition and Congress
LimaThe Museum of the Inquisition and Congress is situated in Lima, the capital city of Peru. It is conveniently located on Junín Street, in close proximity to Bolívar Square. This location is easily accessible and is surrounded by other historical and cultural sites, making it a great addition to any itinerary. 23Jose Carlos Mariategui House
LimaThe José Carlos Mariátegui House Museum is a historical institution located in Lima, Peru. It is dedicated to preserving the legacy of José Carlos Mariátegui, one of the main Peruvian thinkers of the 20th century. Mariátegui lived in this house from June 1, 1925, until his death on April 16, 1930. The house itself is an old building constructed in the early years of the last century, reflecting the architectural characteristics of its time.- 24
Coca Museum
Cusco 25Plaza San Francisco
ArequipaA major church complex from the 16th century with a library and museum filled with excellent colonial paintings and Catholic ornaments. 26Museum of Italian Art
LimaThe Museum of Italian Art boasts a diverse collection of bronze and marble sculptures, paintings, and ceramics from over 120 Italian artists from the early 20th century. This collection provides a comprehensive overview of Italian art during this period, making it a valuable resource for anyone interested in art history.- 27
San Francisco Church and Monastery
CuscoThis church was built in 16th century and didn´t have to be rebuilt after earthquakes. There is a museum with the largest painting in Peru. 28Panteón de los Próceres
LimaThe Panteón de los Próceres, located within the old Church of the Real Convictorio de San Carlos, is a crypt that houses the remains of the heroes of the Peruvian War of Independence. This historical site offers visitors a unique opportunity to pay respects to the individuals who played a significant role in Peru's fight for independence.- 29
Museo del Cerebro
LimaThe Museo de Neuropatologías, also known as the Museo del Cerebro, is a unique Peruvian museum that focuses on educating visitors about different brain pathologies. The museum's exhibits are designed to be informative and engaging, making it a great destination for those interested in neuroscience and medicine. 30Museum of the Nation
San BorjaThe Museum of the Nation was home to an extensive collection of over 12,500 pre-Hispanic pieces. These included collections of ceramics, metals, and textiles from various cultures such as Paracas, Moche, Wari, and Lima. In addition, the museum also housed more than 2,500 historical pieces of art from the colonial and republican era, providing a comprehensive view of Peru's rich cultural heritage. 31Museo de Arte (Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos)
LimaThe Museo de Arte de la Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos (MA SM) is an academic institution situated in Cercado de Lima, Lima, Peru. It is a part of the National University of San Marcos and is dedicated to the collection, preservation, exhibition, and study of the university's historical and artistic heritage. 32Parque de La Muralla
LimaEl parque de La Muralla is a public park situated in the district of cercado in Lima, the capital city of Peru. The park was officially opened to the public in 2004. 33Regional Museum of Ica Adolfo Bermúdez Jenkins
IcaThe Regional Museum of Ica "Adolfo Bermúdez Jenkins" is a significant cultural institution in Peru. It is an archaeology and anthropology museum situated in the city of Ica, which is the capital of the department and province bearing the same name. The museum offers a deep dive into the rich history and culture of the region, making it a fascinating destination for tourists interested in archaeology and anthropology. 34Monumento Arqueológico de Willkawain
IndependenciaWillkawain is situated approximately 6 km northeast of Huaraz, at the foot of the Cordillera Blanca mountain range, which lies further to the east. The locality is at an altitude of 3350 m, providing breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. 35Museo Arqueologico y Etnografico del Conjunto Monumental Belen
Cajamarca- 36
Museo de Sitio Julio C. Tello
Puerto General San MartinThe Museo de Sitio Julio C. Tello de Paracas is situated in the department of Ica, specifically within the Paracas National Reserve. It is approximately 22 kilometers south of the city of Pisco. This location makes it a convenient stop for those exploring the reserve or the surrounding areas. 37Metropolitan Museum
Jesús MaríaThe Metropolitan Museum of Lima, inaugurated in 2010, is a cultural space located in the city of Lima. This museum offers a unique blend of history and culture, making it an interesting destination for tourists interested in learning about Peru's rich history.- 38
Mundo Alpaca Arequipa
Arequipa 39Museum Pedro de Osma
BarrancoExtraordinary mansion holds in its ornate interior a remarkable collection of colonial Peruvian art.- 40
Museo Arqueológico y Etnográfico del Conjunto Monumental Belén
Belén 41Instituto Riva-Agüero
Lima 42Sicán National Museum
FerreñafeThe Sicán National Museum is situated in the city of Ferreñafe, which is in close proximity to Chiclayo, on the north coast of Peru. This location makes it easily accessible for tourists visiting the region.- 43
Museo La Recoleta
YanahuaraA monastery from the 17th century, now a museum displaying mummies, masks, various objects from missionary travels and a huge library. 44Huaca Esmeralda
TrujilloHuaca La Esmeralda is an archaeological site that is part of the Chimú Culture. It is situated in the city of Trujillo, Peru. This site provides a unique opportunity for tourists to explore the rich history and culture of the Chimú people.- 45
Numismatic Museum of Peru
LimaThe historical seat of the main court of accounts now aptly houses an interesting numismatic museum. 46Casa O'Higgins (Lima)
LimaLa Casa O'Higgins is a colonial-style building situated in the historic center of Lima. It is specifically located on Jirón de la Unión, just a few meters away from the Plaza de Armas of the Peruvian capital. This location makes it easily accessible for tourists who are exploring the city's historic center.- 47
Museo de Sitio El Mirador del Cerro San Cristóbal
San Juan de Lurigancho 48The Municipal Art Gallery Ignacio Merino
LimaThe Municipal Art Gallery Ignacio Merino, also known as the Pinacoteca de Lima, is a significant cultural institution in Lima, Peru. Managed by the Metropolitan Municipality of Lima, the gallery is dedicated to promoting artistic education, experimentation, research, knowledge generation, artistic creation, and cultural exchange in an inclusive manner. 49BAP Abtao
CallaoThe BAP Abtao (SS-42) is a significant part of Peru's naval history. This Abtao-class submarine was constructed by the American Electric Boat company in the United States and launched in 1953. It served the Peruvian Navy for many years before being converted into a museum ship. 50Museum of the Central Reserve Bank of Peru
LimaThe Museum of the Central Reserve Bank of Peru, also known as the Central Museum (MUCEN), is a multifaceted institution located in the historic district of Lima, the capital of Peru. It offers a diverse range of exhibits, including archaeology, numismatics, painting, and history, providing a comprehensive insight into the rich cultural and historical heritage of the country. 51Gold Museum of Peru
Santiago de SurcoThe Gold Museum of Peru and Weapons of the World is a significant cultural institution situated in Lima, specifically in the district of Santiago de Surco. This location is easily accessible for tourists visiting the city, making it a convenient destination for those interested in Peruvian history and culture. 52National Museum of Peruvian Culture
San BorjaNot the best museum on this topic in Lima, but no entrance fee is charged. Ancient artefacts on display. 53National Museum of Peruvian Culture
Lima 54Cementerio Presbítero Matías Maestro
El AgustinoThe Presbítero Matías Maestro Cemetery Museum, also commonly known as the General Cemetery of Lima, is a historical monument situated in the Barrios Altos neighborhood of Lima, the capital of Peru. This cemetery holds significant historical value and is a notable landmark in the city. 55Museo Electoral y de la Democracia
LimaThe Museo Electoral y de La Democracia is a public museum that was established in 2005. It is located in the central headquarters of the National Jury of Elections (JNE) in the historic center of Lima. This location makes it easily accessible for tourists who are exploring the city's historic center.- 56
Museum der Japanischen Immigration in Peru
Jesús MaríaThe museum offers an extensive exhibition that includes documents, photographs, and various testimonies related to the arrival of the first Japanese immigrants to Peru at the end of the 19th century. These historical artifacts provide a detailed account of the early days of Japanese immigration to Peru, offering visitors a unique insight into this significant period in Peruvian history. 57Casa Museo Ricardo Palma
MirafloresThe Casa Museo Ricardo Palma is a museum house situated in the district of Miraflores, in Lima. It is dedicated to the renowned Peruvian writer Ricardo Palma, who is best known for his work 'Peruvian Traditions'. This museum offers a unique opportunity to delve into the life and works of this influential author. 58Naval Museum of Peru
CallaoThe Naval Museum of Peru, located within the Port of Callao, opened its doors in 1958. It is a significant attraction for tourists interested in maritime history. The museum is dedicated to the maritime history of Peru and offers a unique insight into the country's naval past. 59Casa de Moral
Arequipa 60Inkariy Museum
CalcaThe Inkariy Museum is a private institution dedicated to history, situated in the Sacred Valley of the Incas, within the district of Calca in the province of the same name in the Cusco region of Peru. This location offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the rich history of the region in a serene and culturally significant setting. 61Museo Lítico de Pukara
Pukara 62Monastery of Santa Teresa
ArequipaThe Monastery of Santa Teresa in Arequipa, also known as the Monastery of Carmelitas Descalzas de San José y Santa Teresa, is a significant religious complex. It is home to a community of cloistered Discalced Carmelites nuns and also houses the Virceroyalty Art Museum of Santa Teresa. This combination of religious and cultural significance makes it a unique destination for visitors. 63Palacio Arzobispal
Arequipa 64Museum of Religious Art
CuscoThe Museum of Religious Art of the Archbishop's Palace in Cusco is home to the most comprehensive collection of viceregal religious art from the Cusco School, a style that flourished primarily in the 17th and 18th centuries. This collection provides a unique insight into the fusion of indigenous and Spanish artistic traditions during the colonial period. 65Museo de los Combatientes del Morro de Arica
LimaThe Museo de los Combatientes del Morro de Arica is situated at Cailloma 125, Lima, Peru. This location is easily accessible for tourists visiting Lima, making it a convenient stop for those interested in Peruvian history. 66Ancon Site Museum
AncónThe archaeological museum and research centre exhibits vast numbers of excavated objects ranging from ceramics to human bones. 67Monumental Callao
Callao 68Military Historic Study Centre Of Perú
Lima 69Palacio Iturregui
Trujillo 70Museo de la Memoria "Para que no se repita"
Ayacucho 71Museo de Sitio Huaca Rajada-Sipán
SipánThe Museo de Sitio Huaca Rajada-Sipán is a Peruvian museum located in the district of Saña, in the province of Chiclayo, in the department of Lambayeque. This location is important for tourists to know as it helps them plan their visit to the museum. 72Regional Museum of Ancash
HuarazThe Archaeological Museum of Ancash is conveniently located opposite the Plaza de Armas in Huaraz. This location is in the district and province of the same name in the Ancash region. Its central location makes it easily accessible for tourists visiting the area. 73National Museum of Peru
LurínThe National Museum of Peru is situated in the Lurín District of Lima, Peru. It is nestled within the archaeological zone of Pachacamac, making it a significant location for those interested in the rich history and culture of the region. 74Museo de los Colli
ComasThe Museo de los Colli is open to the public from Monday to Sunday, from 8.00 a.m. to 4.00 p.m. This schedule allows visitors ample time to explore the museum and learn about the Collique culture. The museum's location in the district of Comas, within the metropolitan area of Lima, makes it easily accessible for tourists. 75Museo de Sitio Túcume
TúcumeThe Museo de Sitio Túcume is a museum in Peru, situated within the archaeological site of Túcume in the Lambayeque department. This location offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore both the museum and the archaeological site, providing a comprehensive understanding of the region's historical and cultural significance. 76Caral
CaralCaral, situated in Peru, is recognized as the oldest known city settlement on the American continent. It is located approximately 200 km north of Lima and 25 km inland from the Pacific coast in the valley of the mostly dried up Río Supe. This ancient city offers a unique opportunity for tourists to explore the roots of civilization in the Americas.- 77
Museo San Francisco
Cajamarca - 78
AMANO - Pre-Columbian Textile Museum
MirafloresPrivate collection of Chimú and Nasca artefacts is really not to be missed despite being so down-to-earth. Free entrance, call ahead. 79Convento La Merced
Cusco- 80
Museum Lord of Miracles
LimaThe Museum Lord of Miracles is a unique institution dedicated to the devotion of the Lord of Miracles, a significant religious figure painted in 1651 by an Angolan slave. This historical and cultural context provides a deep insight into the religious and social history of Peru, making it a fascinating destination for tourists interested in history, culture, and religion. - 81
Museo Nacional de Antropología, Biodiversidad, Agricultura y Alimentación – MUNABA
Jesús MaríaRather on the small side but interesting museum telling the story of native cultures in Peru. Not your typical exhibition! - 82
Museo Didactico Antonini
Nazca - 83
Manuel Chávez Ballón Site Museum
Machupicchu - 84
Museo de Arqueología Josefina Ramos de Cox
Lima - 85
Museo del Pisco
Lima - 86
Museo Gráfico El Peruano
Breña - 87
Museo y Santuario Arqueológico de Pachacamac
Villa El Salvador - 88
Museo Municipal del Teatro
Lima - 89
Museo de la Identificación
Lima - 90
House of Terror
San Miguel - 91
Museo de Arqueología y Antropología de la Universidad Nacional Federico Villarreal
Lima - 92
Museo de Sitio Andrés Avelino Cáceres
Miraflores - 93
Aeronautical Museum
Santiago de SurcoInteresting museum that goes beyond the aviation history of the country and dedicates itself to myths and traditions as well. - 94
Museo Chinen
Independencia - 95
Museo de Sitio Las Peañas
Pocollay - 96
Museo Histórico Municipal de Arequipa
Arequipa - 97
Museo Municipal de Chancay
ChancayThe Museo Municipal de Chancay, located in the town of Chancay, was officially established on July 23, 1991. This was done through the municipal resolution N.° 161: CDCH/91. The museum was created with the resources of the municipality, which dedicated the premises of the old municipal palace as the institution's headquarters. - 98
Machu Picchu Museum
Cusco - 99
Museo Carlos Dreyer
Puno - 100
Museo del Ejército Contemporáneo Chavín de Huántar
Chorrillos - 101
Coca Museum & Custume
Puno - 102
Site Museum Bodega y Quadra
Lima - 103
Museo del Convento de San Francisco
Cusco - 104
Museo Contisuyo
Moquegua - 105
Museo de la Catedral
Cusco - 106
Hipolito Unanue Museum
Ayacucho - 107
Casa Museo Joaquín López Antay
Ayacucho - 108
Tacna Historical Museum
TacnaThe Tacna Historical Museum, situated at Apurimac Street N° 202, is a significant cultural institution dedicated to the archaeology and history of Tacna. The museum primarily focuses on the Emancipation and Republican Period, offering visitors a deep dive into these crucial periods of Tacna's history. The museum's location, near Alameda Bolognesi, makes it easily accessible for tourists. - 109
Museo de Sitio del Alto de la Alianza
Tacna - 110
Santuario de Schoenstatt - La Molina Perú
La Molina - 111
Indigenous Culture Museum Amazonicas
Iquitos - 112
Museo Regional de Casma "Max Uhle"
Province of Casma - 113
Chachapoyas Museum
Province of Chachapoyas - 114
Museo Regional Leoncio Prado Gutierrez
Huánuco - 115
Manuel Chávez Ballón Site Museum
Huamachuco - 116
Museo de Chiclín
Chiclín - 117
Sitio Arqueológico de Tumshukaico
Caraz - 118
Chan Chan Site Museum
Huanchaco - 119
Museum Schafferer
Pozuzo - 120
Paracas History Museum
Paracas - 121
Museo de sitio Wari
Pacaycasa - 122
Museo Municipal de Caraz
CarazThe Municipal Museum 'Hernán Osorio Herrera' of Caraz is a municipal museum situated in the district of Caraz, in the province of Huaylas, within the Áncash region of Peru. This location is a significant cultural hub, offering visitors a chance to delve into the rich history and heritage of the region. - 123
Huaura Museum
Huaura - 124
Museum of the Peoples of Paucartambo
Province of Paucartambo - 125
Museo Amazónico Andino Qhapaq Ñan Quillabamba
Quillabamba - 126
Art Museum of Andean Children
CuscoThis museum is from children to children. There are works of Quechua children displayed. You can also watch short movies. - 127
Living Museum of Ande
Taray - 128
Museo Wawamarka
Chucuito - 129
Centro Cultural de Pucallpa
Pucallpa - 130
Museo Historico de Oxapampa
Oxapampa - 131
Museo Municipal de Huancaya
Huancaya