Central Lima

Today I spent the day in central Lima. I saw many impressive buildings and cathedrals. I enjoyed a couple of tours, the Convent San Francisco being the most interesting. The tour took you through the catacombs beneath the church. The tunnels were so small I could rarely stand-up straight. Over 2500 bodies were buried beneath the convent. When there was nothing left of bodies but bones, the bones were taken out and laid in a circular pattern in giant wells. It was very creepy to see hundreds of skulls stacked on top of each other. Franciscan monsk still live in the convent, and unbelieveably they can still be buried in a reserved section of the catacombs if they wish.

After leaving the Convent I happened upon a large parade. It was a group of Lima residents from Lake Titicaca. Most wore traditional dress, but inexplicably there was also a large group of men dressed as 20´s gangsters with toy Tommy guns. They appeared to be protecting a large float with a statue of Mary caried on the shoulders of several men.

I bought a plate of ceviche calamarie from a small cafe across the street. It seemed a good deal at about $1,50. I was surprised to learn that two more courses were also included. This was the first time I have not been able to finish a dollar and a half worth of food.

I have checked in to the hotel with my tour group. I will everyone this evening. We fly to Cuzco at 7am tomorrow.