Plaza de Armas of Ica

About the Plaza de Armas

The Plaza de Armas is the historic and social center of the city of Ica, surrounded by colonial and republican buildings — among them the Ica Cathedral, rebuilt after the 2007 earthquake that damaged much of the historic center. It is the city's natural meeting point, with its central fountain, palm trees and benches that are always busy at sunset.

A few blocks away is the Regional Museum of Ica, which holds pieces from the Paracas and Nazca cultures, including textiles, ceramics and mummies — a highly recommended stop to understand the historical context of the whole region before or after visiting Nazca or Paracas.

What to do near the plaza

• Ica Cathedral: explore its facade and interior, facing the plaza.
• Regional Museum of Ica: pre-Incan history of the region, with Paracas and Nazca pieces.
• Pisco wineries: several traditional pisco wineries minutes from downtown, with tours and tastings.
• Ica cuisine: traditional restaurants and eateries around downtown.

Tips for your visit

It is a good spot to start or end the day — it pairs well with an early trip to Huacachina or Paracas and a city tour on your way back, before dinner downtown. Late afternoons and evenings on the plaza are especially pleasant thanks to the climate.