Larco Museum, Lima

Nestled in the heart of Lima, Peru, the Larco Museum stands as a beacon of cultural heritage and a testament to the rich history of pre-Columbian societies. This renowned institution is housed in an 18th-century vice-royal building, built over a 7th-century pre-Columbian pyramid. Founded in 1926 by Rafael Larco Hoyle, the museum offers a panoramic view of 5,000 years of Peruvian history, making it an essential destination for those looking to delve into the country's ancestral past.

The Larco Museum's collection is truly exceptional, boasting over 45,000 artifacts meticulously catalogued for scholars and visitors alike. Among its most prized possessions are the finest gold and silver treasures from ancient Peru, as well as a stunning array of erotic pottery, providing insight into the diverse social and cultural aspects of pre-Columbian life.

One of the museum's most engaging features is its open-storage area, which allows visitors to view thousands of pieces not displayed in the main exhibition halls. This transparency offers a rare opportunity for guests to appreciate the vastness and variety of the museum's holdings.

The museum is also renowned for its exquisite gardens, where visitors can stroll amidst native flowers and plants, providing a serene backdrop to the historical journey within. The on-site café offers a taste of Peruvian cuisine, complementing the cultural experience with culinary delights.