The recently reinstalled statue of Spanish conquistador Francisco Pizarro in Lima has provoked strong reactions, reflecting deep divisions over history and cultural identity. While supporters cite historical significance, many indigenous leaders view Pizarro as a symbol of oppression.
Controversial Return of Conquistador Statue Sparks Debate in Lima
Controversial Return of Conquistador Statue Sparks Debate in Lima
The reinstallation of Francisco Pizarro's statue in Lima ignites discussions over historical memory, cultural acknowledgment, and the complexities of Peru’s colonial past.
A statue of Spanish conquistador Francisco Pizarro has been reinstalled in central Lima, Peru, marking a significant moment in the ongoing debate over the representation of colonial figures in public spaces. This ceremony coincided with the 490th anniversary of Lima’s founding, a city established by Pizarro in 1535 after his conquest of the Inca Empire.
The bronze statue, originally created by American sculptor Charles Rumsey, was first unveiled in 1935 to commemorate Lima’s fourth centenary. However, it was removed in 2003 amid a growing movement that sought to address the historical grievances of indigenous communities and to reevaluate the monuments that glorify colonial figures. Following its removal, the statue was relocated to a park, where deterioration occurred due to the proximity of train tracks.
Lima's mayor, Rafael López Aliaga, along with Isabel Díaz Ayuso, the president of Madrid’s Community, presented the statue in Plaza de Armas to a mixed reception from the public. Supporters argue that the return of the statue is an acknowledgment of history and a celebration of Lima's founding, while opponents deem it a painful reminder of colonial violence against indigenous peoples. “This is an offence, an offence to all the indigenous peoples of Peru, Latin America and the world,” declared a protester at a nearby demonstration.
The contrasting perspectives surrounding Pizarro’s legacy highlight a broader conversation about how societies reckon with their past. As debates on historical memory continue, the statue serves as a focal point for differing views on colonialism, nationalism, and the importance of recognizing diverse narratives that shape national identity.
