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WHERE I COME FROM
Peru is one of the most fascinating countries in the world, with astonishing variety in different ecological areas. Only few countries offer so many climate zones and landscapes. It is the country of undiscovered rain forests, the highest mountain ranges and the driest deserts. It is the country of the mysterious Inca and the passionate salsa, of Machu Picchu, the Nazca Lines and the Celestine Prophecy.
Peru has a rich history and culture and an interesting variety of people. In pre-Columbian times, the area of present-day Peru ruled by the Inca, was the most rich and powerful state in the entire Americas. Now, after colonialism, war, corruption, guerrillas and terrorism Peru is finally coming to a positive turning point in history.
The República del Perú has a population of 24,5 million (1996). The country is divided into 24 regions and the constitutional district of Callao. The capital of the republic is Lima (pop. metropolitan area 6,404,500, Times Atlas of the World, 1994). Other big cities: Callao (638,000, part of the Lima metropolitan area), Arequipa (621,000), Trujillo (509,000), Chiclayo (411,000), Chimbote (296,000), Piura (287,000), Cuzco (258,000) and Huáncayo (257,000).
The official languages are Spanish and Quechua. A recognised regional language is Aymara. Ethnic division: Indians 45%, mestizos42%, white 10%, black and Asian 3%. About 89% of the population is Roman Catholic; also various Indian religions. National currency is the Nuevo Sol (100 céntimos).
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