Foundation Day of Lima is observed in Lima, the capital of Peru, every January 18. The day commemorates the founding of the city by Spanish conquistador Francisco Pizarro in 1535, following his defeat of the Inca ruler Atahualpa. Although it is not a public holiday, the citizens of Lima celebrate this day, reflecting on the city's rich history and cultural diversity, influenced by Andean, African, European, and Asian cultures. Lima prospered in the 17th century as a center for trade, but faced challenges such as devastating earthquakes and economic decline. The historic center of Lima, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1988, serves as a symbol of the city's heritage. Today, Lima is a vibrant metropolitan area, home to about one-third of Peru's population.