Colegio Real de la Universidad de San Marcos

The Colegio Real de la Universidad de San Marcos is a cultural center in Lima featuring colonial stonework and wooden balconies, situated at the corner of Jr. Ancash and Jr. Andahuaylas streets. The building houses exhibition halls, historical archives, and research seminars that remain open to visitors throughout the year.

The institution was founded in 1592 by Viceroy Francisco Álvarez de Toledo and originally provided education in canon law for the descendants of Spanish conquistadors. It evolved over the centuries to support broader academic and cultural purposes within the city.

The building serves as a meeting point between academic and artistic activities, hosting regular exhibitions and making historical archives accessible to the public. Visitors can observe how colonial spaces continue to support cultural work and creative exchange today.

The center offers exhibitions and archives that remain open to visitors throughout the year and generally require no special preparation. It is worth checking the opening hours in advance, as regular activities and events can enhance your visit.

For many years, the rectors of the college shared their position with the rectors of the University of San Marcos, with both terms beginning on June 28. This connection reveals how closely the two academic institutions were historically intertwined.

Location: Lima province

GPS coordinates: -12.04721,-77.02402

Latest update: December 14, 2025 12:24