Conservation of Culture Heritage and Colonialism in Perù. Architecture in time Lima and the Andes

This Thesis explores the complex layers of Historical Heritage in Peru, focusing on the enduring interplay between Indigenous traditions and Colonial influences. Conducting a detailed case study of three representative colonial era buildings, the research examines their Religious, Social, and Political significance throughout history, in Lima, as the capital city of Perú. The study traces the architectural transformations of these structures, shaped by natural disasters and historical reformations. The analysis reveals how these buildings have maintained their identity as heritage sites and how their representation reflects broader societal perceptions of Heritage. The research underscores the importance of preserving diverse historical narratives and the role heritage plays in contemporary cultural identity. While Inca Heritage has emerged as a powerful symbol of national pride and Indigenous resurgence, Colonial Heritage occupies a more ambivalent space simultaneously acknowledged for its historical importance and critiqued as a vestige of oppression. This nuanced dynamic illustrates Peruvians’ complex relationship with their past and contributes to broader debates on heritage management, decolonization, and the construction of collective memory. Analyzing their lasting social, cultural, and symbolic impacts on contemporary Peruvian identity. The study also examines Andean sites like Machu Picchu, which remained undiscovered by the Spanish, revealing the majesty of Inca architecture and the impeccable continuity of Peru’s Indigenous Heritage. Crucially, the study underscores the need for inclusive and balanced preservation efforts that honor the integrity of both Inca and Colonial Heritage. This dual perspective illustrates the complex relationship Peruvians maintain with their past and contributes to broader discussions on heritage policy, decolonization, and collective memory.