5 Objects That Tell The Story of Peru

Peru's museums showcase a vibrant heritage, from ancient artifacts to contemporary art. These institutions play a vital role in preserving the country's proud history and culture.

From the National Library of Peru to the Lima Museum of Contemporary Art, these institutions preserve artifacts that represent Peru's rich history, dynamic present, and promising future. Now, let's dive into the stories behind these remarkable objects.

The Opus pulcherrimuz chiromantie cum multis additiôbus noviter impressuz is a book of palmistry, donated to the Library by the Argentine military strategist José de San Martín, as part of the collection of books he left to the institution in 1822.

The Opus has had an eventful life, surviving looting as well as a devastating fire that damaged most of the library in 1943. Learn more about its amazing journey here.

The National Library of Peru is the first cultural institution founded in the nation, for the knowledge and enjoyment of the public. Within its collections, you can find the first books printed in South America, periodicals and manuscripts, films, photographs and more.

In 1912, excavations at Inca burial sites at Machu Picchu, revealed intimate glimpses into the lives of ordinary people. Objects found alongside their remains offer insights into their roles, possessions, and daily routines.

From simple plates to sturdy hammers, knives, jars, and even needles, these objects offer a tangible glimpse into the daily lives and occupations of Peru's past inhabitants.

Machu Picchu is a 15th-century Inca citadel located in the Eastern Cordillera of southern Peru on a 2,430-meter mountain ridge. It is the most familiar icon of the Inca Empire and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.

This version of the coat of arms was painted by Leandro Cortés in 1832 for the Lima Mint. The vicuña, the quinine tree, and the cornucopia or horn of plenty feature in the design, alluding to the natural riches of the country.

The coat of arms can be seen in many places such as public buildings, on jewelry and brooches used to fasten traditional shawls, and worn as part of this military dress uniform.

The Khipu, meaning "knot" in Quechua, is a unique form of record-keeping from ancient Peru. These knotted cords, used for centuries, held numerical and narrative information, demonstrating the ingenuity of Inca communication.

Fashioned from strings made of cotton, animal fibres, maguey, or other plants, khipus have varied in form and purpose throughout their 1,000+ year history. Dive deeper into the fascinating world of these ancient Inca artifacts here.

Across Peru, traditional clothing uses similar materials and embroidery techniques, revealing a shared cultural heritage. However, each province has its own distinct style, creating a visual language of regional identity.

Worn during festivals or traditionally when there is a death in the family, these clothes convey messages to those who can decipher them about the wearer’s home, marital status, occupation, and responsibilities through a language of symbolic images embroidered onto the garments.