Jauja

Jauja has the distinction of having been Peru's original capital, as declared by Francisco Pizarro when he swept through the region; he changed his mind in 1535 and transferred the title to Lima. Jauja still has many of the ornate 16th-century homes and churches that mark its place in the country's history. The Wednesday and Sunday markets display Andean traditions at their most colorful, showing the other side of life in this mountain town. Although there are several moderately priced hotels, many travelers come here on a day-trip from Huancayo. Those who stay usually visit Laguna de Paca, 4 km (2½ miles) from town, which has a few small lakeside restaurants and rowboat rentals.