ICOMTA’24 – The IV International Conference on Communication and Applied Technologies 2024 will take place in the city of Lima, Peru, from September 4th to 6th, 2024. Your participation will provide you with an opportunity to enjoy the charms of a capital city that originated around the Rímac River, nestled between the Pacific Ocean and protected by the Andes mountain range.
City Overview
Founded in 1535 by Spanish conquistador Francisco Pizarro, it was named the “City of the Kings” and served as the capital of the Viceroyalty of Peru until 1821 when independence was declared. Prior to this, life in this arid region, traversed by three rivers that nourish fertile valleys, was home to various pre-Columbian cultures, such as the Lima, Maranga, Wari, and Ichma cultures, which were part of the Inca Empire upon the arrival of the Spanish. Today, their influences can still be seen in central districts like Miraflores, San Isidro, and Pueblo Libre. The Historic Center showcases the grandeur of the former Viceroyalty’s capital for three centuries. The fusion of these origins has given rise to an identity expressed through archaeological sites, churches, cuisine, music, folklore, and the creative contributions of its diverse residents from all over Peru.
Lima enjoys a temperate climate, with temperatures ranging from 16 to 20 degrees Celsius. However, the high relative humidity, which can reach 100%, can make it feel colder. It’s advisable to bring both lightweight and warmer clothing, as Lima’s climate allows for comfortable walks without extreme heat or cold. Although it’s said that it «never rains» in Lima, a fine mist known as «garúa» can be a constant companion, and the overcast sky, often referred to as «panza de burro» (donkey’s belly), is quite common.
Must-See Destinations
The Historic Center of Lima, declared a «World Heritage Site» by UNESCO in 1988, preserves a significant architectural legacy in the Plaza de Armas, the Basilica and Convent of San Francisco with its catacombs, the Basilica and Convent of Santo Domingo, the Palace of Torre Tagle, among other buildings. Notably, the impressive Government Palace stands on the same site where Francisco Pizarro laid out his plans, and the Cathedral, whose cornerstone was laid by the conqueror.
Immediate access to the sea: Lima is the only capital city in South America with immediate access to the Pacific Ocean. Its beaches are the birthplace of surfing champions. From sunrise, you can spot surfers of all levels tackling challenging waves during both winter and summer. Descending the cliffs for a swim in the sea is an everyday activity, and the view from the clifftops is simply spectacular.
Boardwalks, malls, bars, and restaurants offer a beautiful space for strolling while enjoying breathtaking sunsets. You can even venture into paragliding and then stop at one of the many bars and restaurants that showcase the vast diversity of renowned Peruvian cuisine. Larcomar is the mall in the Miraflores district where all of this can be conveniently found.
The pre-Columbian heritage is just around the corner. Miraflores houses one of the most popular archaeological sites where, since the 1980s, archaeologists and district authorities have highlighted the main center of the Lima Culture, dating back to around 700 AD. Important discoveries have shed light on the daily life of our ancestors.
«Todas las sangres» (All the Blood) is the title of a novel by the Peruvian writer José María Arguedas (1911-1969) that sought to portray life in Peru. This concept can aptly apply to Lima today, where nearly 11 million people, either born in the capital or arriving from all corners of Peru, coexist. Lima embodies the national identity because each family that has chosen to establish roots here has contributed its own unique heritage. This holds true not only for those who came from other regions of Peru but also for those who traveled from farther afield.
Enjoy your time in Lima and the upcoming ICOMTA 2024 event.
ICOMTA'24 