National Afro-Peruvian Museum, African heritage museum in Historic Center, Lima, Peru.
The National Afro-Peruvian Museum documents the history and influence of African descendants in Peru through artifacts, artworks, and educational materials displayed across nine permanent exhibition halls. The collection provides a comprehensive overview of different aspects of this formative part of Peruvian identity.
The museum was founded in 2009 within the Casa de las Trece Monedas, a colonial building from the 18th century that once belonged to the López-Flores family. The location was chosen to document history within a structure that itself represents Peru's colonial past.
The exhibition displays traditional music instruments, dance costumes, and artworks that reflect African cultural influence on Peruvian life. Visitors can observe how these elements remain present in the daily practices and celebrations of Afro-Peruvian communities.
Visiting works best Monday through Saturday, with guided tours available at set times, and groups should book ahead. It helps to check current hours beforehand and allow time to move through the nine exhibition halls at a comfortable pace.
The collection includes colonial-era shackles, chains, and freedom letters that show the transition from slavery to liberty in Peru. These objects directly tell the stories of individuals who gained their freedom from systems of oppression.
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