San Juan de Miraflores, Residential district in Lima, Peru.
San Juan de Miraflores is a residential district on the southern edge of Lima, organized into several distinct neighborhoods spread across hillside terrain. The area features steep slopes where homes cluster together and are connected by brightly painted staircases that serve as primary pathways.
The district developed from desert land during the 1960s when rural migrants moved to the city seeking opportunities. It was officially established as an independent district in 1965.
The neighborhood names reflect the Spanish origins of early settlers who came to this area. These place names remain part of how residents navigate and identify their communities today.
The steep staircases are characteristic of the area but require good fitness when moving around. Plan a visit during drier months, as rain can make the painted steps slippery and more difficult to navigate.
A residential facility for orphaned children was founded here in 1955 and continues to care for children without families. This institution remains a quiet social center that few visitors know about when exploring the district.
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