Lima is a city with an impressive cultural offering. Beyond the Larco Museum and the MALI, there are less-visited spaces that house valuable historical, artistic, and scientific artifacts. In this article, we show you some little-known museums in Lima worth discovering on your next cultural outing.
Museum of the Barefoot of Lima
Located in Rímac, this museum is one of the city's best-kept secrets. Founded in the 16th century, the Convent of the Barefoot houses an impressive collection of colonial art, with paintings from the Cusco School, altarpieces, and religious objects that reflect the devotion of the period.
Why visit:
Its colonial architecture is a jewel in itself.
It offers very complete guided tours.
It is perfect for lovers of sacred art and the history of the viceroyalty.
📍 Address: Alameda de los Descalzos s/n, Rímac
💰 Admission: from S/ 10
Andrés del Castillo Museum
This museum, located across from Plaza San Martín, is dedicated to Peruvian mineralogy and pre-Columbian cultures. It is notable for its collection of precious stones, Moche ceramics, and ancient textiles.
What makes it special:
Its scientific and artistic approach.
Interactive exhibits for children and adults.
A beautiful, fully restored Republican building.
📍 Address: Jr. De la Unión 1030, Lima
💰 Admission: S/ 15 adults / S/ 5 students
Bodega y Quadra Site Museum
Few people know that pre-Hispanic and colonial archaeological remains can be seen in the heart of Lima's Historic Center. This museum reveals the remains of an ancient Lima dwelling and shows how the city evolved since pre-Inca times.
Unmissable for those who love:
Urban archaeology.
The stories about how Lima was built.
📍 Address: Jr. Ancash 213, Cercado de Lima
💰 Free entry
Museum of Electricity
In Barranco, this museum combines science and nostalgia. It features a collection of antique electrical equipment, models, and experiments that explain how electricity came to Peru.
Ideal for:
Family and school visits.
Learn about energy and technology in a fun way.
📍 Address: Av. Pedro de Osma 105, Barranco
💰 Entrance: S/ 6
Pedro de Osma Museum
Although better known, many Lima residents still haven't visited it. This museum houses a spectacular collection of viceregal art and Peruvian silverware in a Barranca mansion surrounded by gardens.
Highlights:
Masterpieces of Andean Baroque.
Contemporary temporary exhibitions.
A very nice café and cultural shop.
📍 Address: Av. Pedro de Osma 421, Barranco
💰 Admission: S/ 30 adults / S/ 15 students
Puruchuco – Huaquerones Site Museum
In Ate, you'll find this archaeological museum that recreates the life of Lima's ancient inhabitants before the arrival of the Incas. Its adobe structure, similar to Huaca Pucllana, provides an insight into how local cultures lived centuries ago.
Reasons to visit:
It is an excellent weekend walk.
It has guided tours and educational activities.
It allows us to understand the pre-Hispanic history of Lima.
📍 Address: Av. Nicolás Ayllón km 4.5, Ate
💰 Entrance: S/ 5