Callao: Fortress History, Seafaring and Historic Streets
Accommodation in Callao
Get to know Callao through its many facets: fortress history, Peruvian seafaring, historic architecture and culinary routes. If you are looking for a hotel for your stay, you can start by considering which of these themes will shape your travel plans.
Fortress History and the Historic Center
The Zona Monumental del Callao is the historic center of Peru’s first port. It was declared a National Cultural Heritage Site in 1972 and is known for its republican-era mansions, churches, balconies, cobbled streets and public squares. This architecture and public space reflect Peru’s history.
A notable landmark in the area’s military history is Fortaleza Real Felipe. Built in the 18th century, the fortress was intended to protect the port of Lima from potential attacks. It is also considered an example of colonial military architecture in Latin America. This offers a different perspective on the history of the port than the Museo Naval del Perú, which focuses on seafaring.
The tour of the Museo del EjĂ©rcito “Real Felipe” takes visitors through the cemetery or ossuary, the Puerta del PerdĂłn, the TorreĂłn de la Reina, the TorreĂłn del Rey, the Casa del Gobernador and the Parque de ArtillerĂa. The sequence of stops gives the visit a clear thematic structure. If you plan to take the tour, check the current access arrangements in advance.
Seafaring and History in the Museums
The Museo Naval del PerĂş is located in the historic center of Callao and has eleven permanent thematic exhibition rooms. They cover Peruvian maritime history, from navigation in pre-Hispanic times to later periods of development. The collection consists mainly of archaeological, historical-artistic and historical cultural artifacts, including figureheads, weapons, projectiles, military uniforms, swords, medals and maps.
The museum’s educational program includes videos from the Peruvian Navy and tours led by specially trained staff. The collection and tours offer different ways to explore the subject: you can learn about historical objects or discover the history as part of a guided tour.
The Museo Submarino Abtao also offers a visit with a clearly defined focus. The tour covers six areas of the submarine: the bow battery, torpedo rooms, stern battery, central command post, engine room and motor room. For specific visit planning, it is advisable to check the current access arrangements.
Another cultural highlight is an Afro-Peruvian workshop that uses dance to share Callao’s Afro-descendant roots and identity. As dates may change, check the current schedule before making plans.
Culinary Routes in Callao
The Ruta Marina in Callao includes, among other dishes, Pan con Pejerrey, ceviches, jaleas, leche de tigre and rice dishes with seafood. At restaurants in Callao Monumental–Chucuito, it brings together a range of maritime-inspired dishes. The Ruta del Chicharrón has a different focus and includes Pan con Chicharrón, juices and coffee.
For another selection, the Ruta Criolla features Lomo Saltado, Arroz con Pollo, Cau Cau and Seco de Res with beans. Together, the three routes offer a guide to seafood dishes, chicharrĂłn and Creole cuisine. Individual venues may change, so check the current selection.
A Boat Trip as Another Option
As an excursion, an offshore route crosses Callao Bay to the Cavinzas Islands, the Palomino islet, Camotal, and the islands of San Lorenzo and FrontĂłn. If you would like to include this option in your stay, check in advance whether a trip is being offered and where it departs from.
For the broader travel overview: Callao.
