interesting facts about peru
Interesting Facts about Peru
One of the most interesting facts about Peru is that the country gets its name from a local ruler named Birú. Here is a compilation of many more fascinating facts and trivia about this wonderful country.
- Peru was under Spanish rule for a long time and gained independence on 28th July 1821. However, it took nearly 3 years for Peru to get its recognition and it finally materialized on 9th December 1824.
- It was also the last country to gain independence among all the Spanish colonies.
- The Inca civilization originated in 1200 B.C. in the Cuzco area of southeastern Peru. The Incas lived in Peru until 1533.
- Monarchy existed in Peru during the Inca civilization (till 1532). In the same year the Inca Emperor was defeated and Peru became a colony of Spain.
- The famous Machu Picchu was the location of the Inca civilization. Machu Picchu is a world heritage today and also considered as one of the wonders of the world.
- The presence of the mysterious Nazca lines is a fascinating aspect of this country. These drawings have been made thousands of years ago and the reason for that same is still unknown.
- Peru has diverse geographic conditions with tall mountains, extensive plains, and numerous beaches. Snow covered peak of Alpamayo in Peruvian Andes as well as Peruvian rainforest are found here.
- The culture of Peru is dominated by Spanish and Indian American culture. The Peruvian cuisine and performing arts are based on these traditions; however, the arts and crafts have their roots in the Inca civilization.
- The largest lake in South America, Lake Titicaca, lies in Peru. It is also one of the highest navigable lakes in the world.
- Peru is the largest producer in South America for gold, zinc, timber, iron ore, and finest cotton.
- Potato, tomato, and avocado are believed to have originated here. At the same time, Tara, Maca, and Yacon are typically Peruvian products.
- Ceviche and Pisco Sour are respectively the trademark dish and drink of Peruvian cuisine. Secondly, Lomo Saltado, Pachamanca are also famous dishes of Peru.
- Beatriz Merino was the first and the only (so far) female Prime Minister of Peru.
- Although a developing country, around 90% of literacy rate is found in the county. This may be because attending primary as well as secondary school is compulsory in Peru.
- Capital ― Lima
- Official Language ― Spanish
- Government ― Presidential/Constitutional Republic
- Anthem ― Himno Nacional del Perú
- Currency ― Nuevo sol (PEN)
- Independence day ― 28th July
- Major cities ― Piura, Arequipa, Chimbote, Trujillo, Cusco
- Religion ― Roman Catholic
- National Sport ― Football
- National Animal ― Vicuna