House of the Riva Agüero Family

This beautiful mansion was built in 1760 on behalf of the Riva Agüero family. It was then donated by the last descendant Don José de la Riva Agüero to the Pontifical Catholic University of Peru. Inside this typical Colonial mansion the Institute Riva-Agüero holds an extensive historical archive and a rich library. The building also houses the Museo de Artes y Tradiciones Populares.

The museum in the Casa Riva Agüero was opened on the 25th of October 1979 founded with donations of some of the most important and significant art collectors in Peru like Mildred Merino de Zela, Mariano Benítes and Gertrud de Solari to name a few. The museum displays around 7000 art objects collected with dedication and expertise. The quality and uniqueness of the exhibits not only amazes the interested public, but also ethnologist and historians. Without a doubt the museum offers a beautiful ethnic collection of Peru.