The Presidential Palace of Peru

10 March 2012

To quote Elder L. Whitney Clayton, "the Govenrment Palace (in Lima, is) the official residence and office of Peru's president."  Similar to the experience he shared in the October 2011 General Conference, we have wondered what it would be like to enter the palace.

We have walked around the building many times and even caught the changing of the guard.

After about 20 phone calls our friends were able to get reservations to tour some of the rooms of the Presidential Palace.

This is the room where guests are received.

Julie, with Marilyn and Lavor Cardon and Coleen and Tom Cavanaugh

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Though the architecture would suggest otherwise, construction on the building was begun in 1900.  This wing was built in 1930.

This looks pretty celestial.  It even had mirrors on both walls,  The design was inspired by the Versailles Palace and the furniture from Louis XIV.

This is actually the "Inaugural" room where state officials are sworn into oath.

Stairs leading to the residence and offices.

Impressive architecture.

There was a hall dedicated to the Liberators, like Bolivar, Martin and O'Higgins.

The inner rooms did not have natural light other than the skylights.

I love the European ceilings.  All the woodwork is carved and fit in place without any glue or nails.

The dining roon seats about 240 guests.  The more important guests are seated at the "round" table.

Everyone else was seated at the friendlier banquet tables.

Having often gazed at the building from the outside, now we could appreciate the view from the inside.

The happy tourists.

This balcony looks out over the street and the Plaza de Armas and is where the Peruvain President stands to address the citizens on special occasions.