Metropolitan Block
The Metropolitan Block is a five-story building in downtown Lima built in 1890 and designed in Romanesque Revival style with Victorian influences. Its facade features rounded arches, detailed brickwork, cast iron elements on the ground floor, small towers at the top, and original storefront windows that have been preserved.
The building was constructed in 1890 during Lima's oil boom when the city experienced rapid growth and new commercial structures appeared. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1979 in recognition of being one of the best-preserved examples of Romanesque Revival architecture in the city.
The name reflects its role as a central commercial hub in Lima's downtown. The preserved details like lavender-colored glass windows and the solid brickwork show the craftsmanship valued during that era and connect visitors to the city's past prosperity.
The building is located on North Main Street in downtown Lima and is easily accessible on foot. Its facade and architectural details are visible from the street, making it a good stop during a walk through the historic downtown area.
The transoms above the entrance doors contain lavender-colored glass, a rare design choice from that era. This colored glass, combined with the decorative brickwork and small towers, shows that builders aimed for visual richness alongside structural durability.
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