Here are 21 facts you didn't know about Peru
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1. Area: Peru has an area of approximately 1,285,216 square kilometers, making it the third largest country in South America.
2. Population: Peru has a population of approximately 33 million people (2023 estimate).
3. Capital: The capital of Peru is Lima, which is the largest city in the country.
4. Official language: Spanish is the official language, in addition to Quechua and Aymara.
5. Culture: Peruvian culture ranges from Spanish and Native American influences. Includes traditional customs, music, dances, and costumes.
6. Inca Civilization: Peru was home to the ancient Inca civilization, which was the largest empire in South America before the arrival of the Spanish.
7. Machu Picchu: An ancient Inca citadel, Machu Picchu is considered one of the New Seven Wonders of the World and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
8. Religion: The majority of the population in Peru profess the Christian religion, with Catholics making up the largest percentage.
9. Economy: Peru's economy depends on several sectors, the most prominent of which are mining (gold, silver, copper), agriculture (potatoes, corn, coffee), and fishing.
10. Economic Growth: Peru is one of the fastest growing economies in South America.
11. Terrain: Peru has a diverse terrain of mountains, deserts, and rainforests.
12. Mountains: Peru contains part of the Andes mountain range, which is the longest mountain range in the world.
13. Lake Titicaca: Lake Titicaca is located in the southeast of Peru, and is considered the highest navigable lake in the world.
14. Amazon forests: A large part of the Amazon forest is located in Peru, and it is one of the most important ecosystems in the world.
15. Equator: The Equator passes through northern Peru.
16. Tribal groups: In Peru, there are many indigenous tribal groups that retain their own traditions and culture.
17. Sandboarding: Sandboarding can be practiced in the Hokachina Desert.
18. Food: Peruvian cuisine has a global reputation, with cervo (grilled steak) and ceviche (raw fish marinated in lemon) being two of the most popular dishes.
19. Nazca Drawings: The Nazca Drawings are a collection of giant geometric shapes and drawings excavated in the Nazca Desert, which remains a mystery today.
20. Music: Folk music in Peru uses traditional instruments such as the zambona (flute) and the cajón.
21. Festivals: Peru celebrates many traditional festivals that reflect the country's cultural diversity, such as the Inti Raymi Sun Festival.
Source: websites