Piura is a northwestern city of Peru, and is the capital of the Piura Region and Piura Province. In 1532 the Spanish Conqueror, Francisco Pizarro, founded the first Spanish city in South America, San Miguel de Piura, modernly translated La Primera Ciudad, “the first city”. It also served as the first main port for the Spaniards.

In the earlier years of settlement, this northern territory was inhabited by the Tallanes and Yungas, of Carribean origin. Later it was to come under the first rule of the Mochicas which evolved into the Vicus Culture. It wasn’t until hundreds of years later that Tupac Inca Yupanqui took rule. By 1532 the Spanish invasion occupied the city and officially pronounced Piura to be their city and introduced the mestizo culture, which includes Andalucia and African influence, as well as Chinese.

Among the many interests of the city of Piura are museums and art exhibits, beautiful cathedrals with intricate Spanish architecture, and monuments. The University of Piura is located here, with its other campus located in Lima. A visit to the Kurt Beer Ecological Parque is a possibility while touring the city. There are other botanical parks that are great for bird watching for the nature lover. For a more in depth look at the surrounding areas of the Piura region you can visit the cities of Catacaos and Sullana. Sample some of the traditional foods at great restaurants, or just shop around and purchase a straw hat that is handmade by the natives. Take that hat with you when you visit one of the many lovely beaches along the northern Pacific coastline. Some favorite surfing spots are Colan beach, as well as Yacila and Mancora. A little further out is Punta Sal, Organos, and Nunural. Don’t surf? The good news is that you can learn. Surfing is one of the biggest water sports in Peru, and there are plenty of surf shops that will offer lessons to the less experienced surfer.

There are many wonderful spots to visit as you travel the Panamerican Highway, which takes you up and down the entire northern coastline. Buses run along this highway from Lima to Tumbes. Check with your travel agent as to what would be the most convenient way to visit Piura and other fascinating cities along the way, so that you don’t miss a thing that this magnificent country has to offer.