Quinta de Presa, Rococo mansion in Rímac, Lima, Peru

Quinta de Presa is a two-story mansion on jirón Chira in the Rímac district, built in the 18th century in a French Baroque or Rococo style adapted to Lima's climate and local materials. Its rusticated stone ground floor has a central arched doorway with an iron gate, flanked by two pedimented windows; above, pilasters divide a smooth upper level with two curved-pediment windows and a central blind niche. Curved pediments and an oval finial crown the roofline, and a stone balustrade with urns and fountains stands before the building.

The land began as a mill owned by Isabel de la Presa starting in 1727, but was later transformed by Pedro José Carrillo de Albornoz into a recreational residence. This conversion took place during the height of colonial wealth and power among Lima's upper class.

The mansion reflects the taste of wealthy Lima's colonial elite, who admired European designs and adapted them using local craftsmanship and materials. The rooms were arranged as a retreat where the upper class could escape the bustle of city life.

The property is currently undergoing restoration work and remains closed to visitors, with funding from heritage conservation organizations. Travelers should check ahead for current access status and any future opening plans before making a visit.

The mansion is often wrongly called the Perricholi Palace, after Micaela Villegas, the actress linked to Viceroy Manuel de Amat y Junyent, though the estate belonged to the Carrillo de Albornoz family. Its name comes from Isabel Carrillo de Albornoz y de la Presa, sister of the 4th Count of Montemar. In 2023 the Quinta and Molino de Presa were inscribed as part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Lima's historic centre.