Famous Former Residents of Pueblo Libre, Lima

Pueblo Libre, a charming district within the bustling city of Lima, holds a unique distinction. Known as the “Villa de los Libertadores,” this historic enclave has been home to an extraordinary number of influential figures who have shaped the course of Peruvian and South American history.

If you’re exploring historical places in Lima or seeking a deeper understanding of Peru’s past, discovering the famous people in Peruvian history who once resided in Pueblo Libre is a captivating journey. Pueblo Libre or ‘Free Town,’ truly echoes with the legacies of its illustrious former residents.

Here, we delve into the lives of the 26 individuals honored with busts along the Paseo de los Vecinos Ilustres, offering a glimpse into their contributions and their connection to this significant district – a key highlight of the things to do in Pueblo Libre.

1. Don Gonzalo Taulichusco

Don Gonzalo Taulichusco was the last Gobernador Indígena (Indigenous Governor) of Lima during the early colonial period. He played a crucial role in the transition after the Spanish conquest and notably donated the land upon which the historic Santa María Magdalena Church in Pueblo Libre was built.

_{Bronze bust in the Paseo de los Vecinos Ilustres de Pueblo Libre honoring Gonzalo Taulichusco}

2. Andrés Hurtado de Mendoza y Cabrera

Andrés Hurtado de Mendoza, 3rd Marquis of Cañete, served as the Viceroy of Peru from 1556 to 1561. While his viceregal duties spanned the entire colony, historical records indicate his presence and residence within the area that is now Pueblo Libre.

Bronze bust in the Paseo de los Vecinos Ilustres de Pueblo Libre honoring Andrés Hurtado de Mendoza y Cabrera — _{Bronze bust in the Paseo de los Vecinos Ilustres de Pueblo Libre honoring Andrés Hurtado de Mendoza y Cabrera}

3. Don Isidro Cortazar y Abarca

Don Isidro Cortazar y Abarca was a prominent figure in colonial Lima. A wealthy landowner and influential member of society, his residence in the Magdalena Vieja area (the former name of Pueblo Libre) underscores the district’s historical importance even in the colonial era.

_{Bronze bust in the Paseo de los Vecinos Ilustres de Pueblo Libre honoring Don Isidro Cortazar y Abarca}

4. Joaquín de la Pezuela

Joaquín de la Pezuela, the second to last Viceroy of Peru before independence (though overthrown before San Martín’s arrival in Lima), famously owned the grand estate now known as the Quinta de los Libertadores in Pueblo Libre. This makes him a significant, albeit unwilling, part of the district’s liberation story.

Bronze bust in the Paseo de los Vecinos Ilustres de Pueblo Libre honoring Joaquín de la Pezuela — _{Bronze bust in the Paseo de los Vecinos Ilustres de Pueblo Libre honoring Joaquín de la Pezuela}

5. Libertador Don José de San Martín

José de San Martín, the Liberator of Argentina, Chile, and Peru, made Pueblo Libre the strategic heart of his campaign for Peruvian independence. His headquarters were established at the Quinta de los Libertadores, solidifying Pueblo Libre’s place in the annals of Peruvian history.

Bronze bust of Jose de San Martin in the Paseo de los Vecinos Ilustres de Pueblo Libre in Pueblo Libre Lima — _{Bronze bust of José de San Martín}

6. Libertador Simón Bolívar

Simón Bolívar, the Liberator of much of South America, also resided in Pueblo Libre during his crucial efforts to secure Peru’s independence. His presence alongside San Martín in Lima, albeit at different times, further cemented the district’s “Villa de los Libertadores” title.

Bronze bust of Simón Bolívar in the Paseo de los Vecinos Ilustres de Pueblo Libre in Pueblo Libre Lima — _{Bronze bust of Simón Bolívar}

7. Gran Mariscal Antonio José de Sucre

Antonio José de Sucre, a key military leader under Simón Bolívar, played a pivotal role in the Battle of Ayacucho, which secured South American independence. He was the Grand Marshal of Ayacucho and the first President of Bolivia.

His connection to Pueblo Libre stems from his close association with Bolívar during the Peruvian campaigns. And he lived in Pueblo Libre from 1823 to 1825.

Bronze bust of Antonio José de Sucre in the Paseo de los Vecinos Ilustres de Pueblo Libre in Pueblo Libre Lima — _{Bronze bust of Antonio José de Sucre}

8. Gran Mariscal José Domingo de La Mar y Cortázar

José Domingo de La Mar y Cortázar was a prominent figure in the early years of the Peruvian Republic, serving as President on multiple occasions. His residence in Pueblo Libre highlights the district’s continued importance in the nascent nation.

Bronze bust in the Paseo de los Vecinos Ilustres de Pueblo Libre honoring Gran Mariscal José Domingo de La Mar y Cortázar — _{Bronze bust in the Paseo de los Vecinos Ilustres de Pueblo Libre honoring Gran Mariscal José Domingo de La Mar y Cortázar}

9. Manuel Gaspar Villarán Loli

Manuel Gaspar Villarán Loli was a distinguished Peruvian lawyer, politician, and intellectual in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. His residence in Pueblo Libre reflects the district’s attraction for prominent thinkers of the era.

Bronze bust in the Paseo de los Vecinos Ilustres de Pueblo Libre honoring Manuel Gaspar Villarán Loli — _{Bronze bust in the Paseo de los Vecinos Ilustres de Pueblo Libre honoring Manuel Gaspar Villarán Loli}

10. Manuelita Saenz “La Libertadora del Libertador”

Manuela Sáenz, the courageous and influential partner of Simón Bolívar, played a vital role in the independence movement. She was awarded the Order of the Sun by San Martin and she was loved by Bolivar.

Her residence in Pueblo Libre, just steps from the Quinta, positioned her at the center of revolutionary activities. Her story is a key part of understanding the famous people in Peruvian history.

Travel Tip: In Plaza Bolivar you’ll notice that Manuela Sáenz former home is at one end of the Plaza. And at the other is a bronze bust of ‘El Genio’ (Simon Bolivar), forever looking back over his shoulder, towards the place where she lived.

Bronze bust of Manuela Sáenz in the Paseo de los Vecinos Ilustres de Pueblo Libre in Pueblo Libre Lima — _{Manuela Sáenz, the ‘Liberator of the Liberator’ was a key figure in Peruvian Independence. In 2007 her exile was lifted and she was posthumously awarded the title of Honorary General of Ecuador. And in 2010, soil from her grave was interred in the Pantheon of Heroes in Caracas, Venezuela next to Simon Bolivar. Thereby reuniting them 180 years after they were seperated by Bolivar’s death.}

Manuela Sáenz house in Pueblo Libre, Lima Peru on Plaza Bolivar — _{Manuela Sáenz, the ‘Liberator of the Liberator’ was a key figure in Peruvian Independence. In 2007 her exile was lifted and she was posthumously awarded the title of Honorary General of Ecuador. And in 2010, soil from her grave was interred in the Pantheon of Heroes in Caracas, Venezuela next to Simon Bolivar. Thereby reuniting them 180 years after they were seperated by Bolivar’s death.}

11. Gran Mariscal José Andrés de Santa Cruz

José Andrés de Santa Cruz served as President of Peru and later as the Supreme Protector of the Peru-Bolivian Confederation. His residence in Pueblo Libre underscores the district’s continued association with national leadership.

_{Bronze bust in the Paseo de los Vecinos Ilustres de Pueblo Libre honoring Gran Mariscal José Andrés de Santa Cruz}

12. General José María Córdova Muñoz

General José María Córdova Muñoz was a celebrated Colombian general who fought alongside Bolívar in numerous key battles for South American independence. His connection to Pueblo Libre stems from his involvement in the Peruvian campaigns.

Bronze bust in the Paseo de los Vecinos Ilustres de Pueblo Libre honoring General José María Córdova Muñoz — _{Bronze bust in the Paseo de los Vecinos Ilustres de Pueblo Libre honoring General José María Córdova Muñoz}

13. Dr. Pedro Alejandrino Del Solar Gabas

Dr. Pedro Alejandrino Del Solar Gabas was a respected Peruvian physician and politician in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. His residence in Pueblo Libre highlights the district’s appeal to professionals and intellectuals.

_{Bronze bust in the Paseo de los Vecinos Ilustres de Pueblo Libre honoring Dr. Pedro Alejandrino Del Solar Gabas}

14. Francisco García Calderón Landa

Francisco García Calderón Landa was a distinguished Peruvian lawyer, academic, and brief interim President during the War of the Pacific. His residence in Pueblo Libre reflects the district’s history as a home for influential figures in Peruvian society.

_{Bronze bust in the Paseo de los Vecinos Ilustres de Pueblo Libre honoring Francisco García Calderón Landa}

15. Reynaldo de Vivanco y de la Torre

Reynaldo de Vivanco y de la Torre was a prominent Peruvian intellectual, writer, and diplomat in the early 20th century. His choice of Pueblo Libre as his residence underscores the district’s cultural significance.

_{Bronze bust in the Paseo de los Vecinos Ilustres de Pueblo Libre honoring Reynaldo de Vivanco y de la Torre}

16. El General de Brigada Paul Josep Emile Clément Favre

General Paul Josep Emile Clément Favre was a French military advisor who played a role in the modernization of the Peruvian army in the early 20th century. His residence in Pueblo Libre indicates the district’s international connections.

Bronze bust in the Paseo de los Vecinos Ilustres de Pueblo Libre honoring General de Brigada Paul Josep Emile Clément Favre — _{Bronze bust in the Paseo de los Vecinos Ilustres de Pueblo Libre honoring General de Brigada Paul Josep Emile Clément Favre}

17. Germán Luna Iglesias

Germán Luna Iglesias was a notable Peruvian architect and urban planner in the mid-20th century. His residence in Pueblo Libre speaks to the district’s appeal to creative and innovative minds.

Bronze bust in the Paseo de los Vecinos Ilustres de Pueblo Libre honoring Germán Luna Iglesias — _{Bronze bust in the Paseo de los Vecinos Ilustres de Pueblo Libre honoring Germán Luna Iglesias}

18. Julio César Tello Rojas

Julio César Tello Rojas is considered the “father of Peruvian archaeology.” His groundbreaking research and establishment of national archaeological institutions mark him as one of the most famous people in Peruvian history.

His residence in Pueblo Libre connects this vital field to the district. And Pueblo Libre is home to the Huaca Julio C. Tello, a protected Peruvian Cultural Heritage site.

Bronze bust in the Paseo de los Vecinos Ilustres de Pueblo Libre honoring Julio César Tello Rojas — _{Bronze bust in the Paseo de los Vecinos Ilustres de Pueblo Libre honoring Julio César Tello Rojas}

19. Julia Manuela Codesido Estenós

Julia Manuela Codesido Estenós was a significant Peruvian painter of the 20th century, known for her indigenist themes. Her residence in Pueblo Libre highlights the district’s appeal to prominent artists.

Travel Tip: The former residence of Julia Manuela Codesido Estenós in Pueblo Libre is now a private museum. It’s not always open and it requires booking in advance if you want to see it.

Bronze bust in the Paseo de los Vecinos Ilustres de Pueblo Libre honoring Julia Manuela Codesido Estenós — _{Bronze bust in the Paseo de los Vecinos Ilustres de Pueblo Libre honoring Julia Manuela Codesido Estenós}

20. Victorio Macho Rogado

Victorio Macho Rogado was a renowned Spanish sculptor who spent a significant period of his life in Peru. His residence and artistic endeavors in Pueblo Libre added an international dimension to the district’s cultural landscape.

_{Bronze bust in the Paseo de los Vecinos Ilustres de Pueblo Libre honoring Victorio Macho Rogado}

21. Arnaldo Luis Erasmo Panizo Vargas

Arnaldo Luis Erasmo Panizo Vargas was a respected Peruvian composer and musician in the 20th century. His residence in Pueblo Libre underscores the district’s attraction for creative individuals in the arts.

_{Bronze bust in the Paseo de los Vecinos Ilustres de Pueblo Libre honoring Arnaldo Luis Erasmo Panizo Vargas}

22. Francisco González Gamarra

Francisco González Gamarra was a prominent Peruvian painter in the early 20th century, known for his costumbrista scenes. His residence in Pueblo Libre further solidifies the district’s artistic heritage.

Bronze bust in the Paseo de los Vecinos Ilustres de Pueblo Libre honoring Francisco González Gamarra — _{Bronze bust in the Paseo de los Vecinos Ilustres de Pueblo Libre honoring Francisco González Gamarra}

23. Rafael Larco Hoyle

Rafael Larco Hoyle was a pioneering Peruvian archaeologist and the founder of the renowned Museo Larco in Pueblo Libre. His work revolutionized the understanding of pre-Columbian Peruvian cultures, making him one of the most famous people in the history of Peru.

The Larco museum itself is a major draw for those interested in historical places in Lima. And it’s currently rated as one of the best museums in Latin America and is considered one the world’s top 25 museums.

Cafe Museo Larco in Pueblo Libre — _{Rafael Larco Hoyle was the founder of Larco Museum in Pueblo Libre.}

Bronze bust in the Paseo de los Vecinos Ilustres de Pueblo Libre honoring Rafael Larco Hoyle — _{Rafael Larco Hoyle was the founder of Larco Museum in Pueblo Libre.}

24. Mario Alberto Florián Díaz

Mario Alberto Florián Díaz was a respected Peruvian writer and journalist in the mid-20th century. His residence in Pueblo Libre reflects the district’s continued appeal to literary figures.

Bronze bust in the Paseo de los Vecinos Ilustres de Pueblo Libre honoring Mario Alberto Florián Díaz — _{Bronze bust in the Paseo de los Vecinos Ilustres de Pueblo Libre honoring Mario Alberto Florián Díaz}

25. José Agustín de la Puente Candamo

José Agustín de la Puente Candamo was a distinguished Peruvian historian and academic in the 20th century. His residence in Pueblo Libre underscores the district’s enduring connection to historical scholarship.

Bronze bust in the Paseo de los Vecinos Ilustres de Pueblo Libre honoring José Agustín de la Puente Candamo — _{Bronze bust in the Paseo de los Vecinos Ilustres de Pueblo Libre honoring José Agustín de la Puente Candamo}

26. Josefina Ramos de Cox

Josefina Ramos de Cox was a prominent Peruvian educator and feminist in the 20th century. Her residence in Pueblo Libre highlights the district’s history as a home for influential figures in social reform and education.

_{Bronze bust in the Paseo de los Vecinos Ilustres de Pueblo Libre honoring Josefina Ramos de Cox}

Historic Walks in Pueblo Libre, Lima

Exploring the Paseo de los Vecinos Ilustres and learning about these famous former residents of Pueblo Libre offers a unique and enriching perspective on one of the most significant historical places in Lima.

It underscores why Pueblo Libre truly deserves its title as the “Villa de los Libertadores” and why it remains a vital destination for anyone seeking to connect with the rich tapestry of Peruvian history. This walk through the lives of Pueblo Libre’s distinguished inhabitants is undoubtedly one of the more compelling things to do in Pueblo Libre for visitors with a deep interest in history.

Pueblo Libre district’s historic walks—from the patriotic tributes on the Boulevard de las Patricias to the vibrant musical heritage of the Boulevard del Criollismo—add further depth to this journey. These, along with the many other monuments scattered throughout the district, provide an even more complete picture of Pueblo Libre’s identity.

Note: there’s some famous individuals who you won’t find monuments to in Pueblo Libre. Like Matheus Salade after whom the Mateo Salado Archaeological Complex is named. He was a 16th-century French hermit who lived on the site and was executed by the Spanish Inquisition.

Travel Tip: Consider taking a free walking tour of Pueblo Libre to learn about all of the famous former residents who have called this district home.