Return of Pizarro Statue Sparks Controversy in Lima

The recent reinstatement of the Francisco Pizarro statue in Lima has sparked significant public outrage as it raises questions about the reconciliation of historical narratives.

A statue of the Spanish conqueror Francisco Pizarro has been reintroduced in Lima, Peru, marking a contentious chapter in the city's historical timeline. This unveiling coincided with the 490th anniversary of Lima's founding, a significant milestone celebrated through conflicting perspectives.

Francisco Pizarro, who established Lima in 1535 after his conquest of the Inca Empire, is viewed through a dual lens. Indigenous advocates label him as a brutal oppressor responsible for the decimation of their culture, while supporters contend that acknowledging his actions is necessary for understanding Peru's complex history.

Originally designed by American sculptor Charles Rumsey and gifted in honor of Lima's fourth centenary in 1935, the statue was removed in 2003 due to growing concerns over its appropriateness and subsequent damage from nearby train activity. Following the restoration of the historic area, the initiative to return the statue was backed by Lima's mayor, Rafael López Aliaga, and The Community of Madrid's president, Isabel Díaz Ayuso.

During a presentation at the Plaza de Armas, Mayor López Aliaga and others emphasized the importance of commemorating both the city's founding and a pivotal moment in world history. However, dissenting voices filled the air, as dozens protested nearby, asserting that the statue's return represents an affront to indigenous peoples. "This is an offense to all the indigenous peoples of Peru, Latin America, and the world," a protestor expressed, highlighting the stark divisions in public sentiment surrounding the monument's place in contemporary society.