Monument to the Heroes of Tacna: 10 Things to Do in Tacna, Peru



Tacna, Peru is a city with a rich history, and one of its most iconic attractions is the Monument to the Heroes of Tacna. Located in the heart of the city, the monument commemorates the heroes of the Battle of Tacna, which took place during the War of the Pacific (1879-1883). The monument is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, and there are a variety of activities and attractions to explore in the area. Here are 10 of the best things to do at the Monument to the Heroes of Tacna.

1. Visit the Monumental Column: The centerpiece of the Monument to the Heroes of Tacna is the Monumental Column, a towering obelisk that stands at the center of the monument. The monument is made up of three parts: the base, the column, and the top, which is adorned with a sculpture of the Peruvian flag. Visitors can climb to the top of the column for a spectacular view of the city.

2. Explore the Monuments to the Heroes: Surrounding the Monumental Column are several smaller monuments dedicated to the heroes of the Battle of Tacna. These monuments are adorned with sculptures and inscriptions that commemorate the bravery of the Peruvian soldiers who fought in the war.

3. Visit the Museum of the War of the Pacific: Adjacent to the Monument to the Heroes of Tacna is the Museum of the War of the Pacific, which offers visitors a chance to learn more about the battle and its significance in Peruvian history. The museum also houses a collection of artifacts from the war, including uniforms, weapons, and documents.

4. Attend a Performance at the Amphitheater: The Monument to the Heroes of Tacna is home to an outdoor amphitheater, where visitors can attend performances of traditional Peruvian music and dance. The amphitheater also hosts special events throughout the year, such as concerts and plays.

5. Take a Tour of the Monument: Visitors can take a guided tour of the Monument to the Heroes of Tacna, which will provide an in-depth look at the history of the monument and the battle that it commemorates. The tour is available in both English and Spanish.

6. Visit the Monumental Garden: The Monumental Garden is a tranquil park located adjacent to the Monument to the Heroes of Tacna. The park features lush gardens, sculptures, and fountains, and is a great place to relax and enjoy the scenery.

7. Explore the Local Markets: The area around the Monument to the Heroes of Tacna is home to several bustling markets, where visitors can purchase a variety of local goods and souvenirs. The markets are a great place to get a taste of local culture and cuisine.

8. Take a Hike: The Monument to the Heroes of Tacna is located at the base of Cerro La Libertad, a mountain that offers excellent hiking opportunities. From the top of the mountain, visitors can enjoy stunning views of the city and the surrounding countryside.

9. Visit the Church of San Francisco: Located just a few blocks from the Monument to the Heroes of Tacna is the Church of San Francisco, a beautiful colonial-style church that dates back to the 18th century. The church is a popular destination for visitors, and it is home to a variety of religious artifacts.

10. Enjoy a Meal at a Local Restaurant: The area around the Monument to the Heroes of Tacna is home to a variety of restaurants, offering a wide range of traditional Peruvian dishes. Visitors can enjoy a delicious meal while admiring the views of the monument.

Whether you’re looking for a peaceful stroll in the park or an educational tour of the monument, there is something for everyone at the Monument to the Heroes of Tacna. With its rich history and array of attractions, the monument is sure to be a highlight of any trip to Tacna, Peru.