Stories: Aracari Newsletter

This month we are celebrating! The restoration of Casa Prado, a dilapidated 17th Century house of major historic, architectural and artistic importance in the centre of Lima, has been given a significant boost by being named, as part of the Lima entry, as one of the top 100 endangered sites 2008 by the World Monuments Fund, more commonly known as the “World Monuments Watch”. Casa Prado Lima The nomination of Casa Prado has been a labour of love for my associates and I for the past two years. The attraction was immediate – Casa Prado has such an incredibly unique history and architecture that it desperately needs to be saved. Built in 1690 using a fascinating amalgamation of European design, indigenous styles and materials, Casa Prado was the main residence of one of the most influential family dynasties in Peruvian history for over two hundred years, and only ceased being a private residence one year ago. The Prado family spawned two Presidents of Peru, each of whom served two terms – Mariano Ignacio Prado (1865-1868 and 1876-1879), and Manuel Prado Ugarteche (1939-1945 and 1956-1962). The family was also renowned for military bravery and heroism in the 19 th Century, with two national heroes proclaimed during this time. Originally built with adobe (mud brick), the house became a showcase of secular Peruvian architecture as it was enriched over the centuries. Today, it boasts many original fittings, furnishings and artwork including leather, paper and fabric wall-coverings, silver and crystal chandeliers and original Spanish and Peruvian wall and floor tiles. The riches extend beyond the structure and furnishings as the house is host to an incredible Collection of decorative art pieces and furniture from many different periods and styles. This Collection also contains over 100 paintings principally from the Vice-royal and Republican times.