1. The capital of Peru is Lima, which was actually established in 1535 by no other that Francisco Pizarro, a conquistador and explorer of legendary statute. Nowadays Lima is the 5th largest city of the Americas (both North and South America), also has the oldest university in the Americas, the National University of San Marcos. This prestigious school was founded in 1551.2. But the main attraction and symbol is surely Machu Picchu, which was rediscovered in 1911 by Hiram Bingham, who once again brought back the splendor and beauty of the fascinating Incan civilization. There is a trip worthy to be undertaken, difficult of course, but thoroughly rewarding.
3. If you like corn you should know that here in Peru they grow over 50 different varieties, ranging from the usual kind to black or purple ones. Also, according to many researchers it is almost sure that the beloved potato came from Peru. No wonder, as there are about 3000 varieties grown here.
4. At the border of Peru and Bolivia you will find the highest navigable lake, Lake Titicaca. Beneath it's waters there are remnants and ruins of an ancient city.
5. The highest sand dune? Surely you didn't know there was such a record, but it is the Cerro Blanco, a sand dune which can be found in the Sechura Desert, in the southern part of the country. The Cerro Blanco is 1176 meters high, a real sand mountain, and is a famous landmark for brave travellers. Also it is popular because you can sand board all the way to the ground.
6. The most famous writer from Peru? Without a doubt Mario Vargas Llosa. In 2010 he was awarded the Nobel Prize for Literature.
7. The country has several official languages: Spanish, Quechua, Aymara. But some locals speak Asahaninka, and when it comes down to it there are over a dozen of local Amazonian dialects, some of them virtually a mistery for the outsiders.
8. Peru is the 6th largest producer of gold in the world.
9. The locals really seem to love orchids, are there are about 3500 varieties of this gorgeous and delicate flower which are local in Peru.
10. There are many shamans in Peru, so many that only India has more, and it has been a tradition which dates over 3000 years ago. Shamans are wiseman, healers, they give advice and are at the same time doctors and priests, and some of them have become legendary even during their lifetime.
Photo: wikipedia.org, absfreepic.com, goodfreephotos.com,
