Real Audiencia of Lima

The Real Audiencia and Chancery of Lima was a very important court in the New World empire of Spain. It was located in the city of Lima, which was the capital of the Viceroyalty of Peru. This court was created on November 20, 1542, by Emperor Charles V, at the same time as the viceroyalty itself.

When it began working in 1543, the Audiencia had control over the entire viceroyalty. This meant it covered almost all of Spanish-controlled South America and even Panama. Over time, other similar courts called audiencias were set up in different parts of the Viceroyalty.

The Real Audiencia of Lima continued to function for many years until 1821. That year, forces led by José de San Martín entered Lima, marking the end of its work. The Audiencia played a big role in governing and making decisions for many people living in South America during that time.

Subsequent divisions

In 1559, part of the Lima Audiencia's area was split to create a new Audiencia of Charcas. Then, in 1563, another audiencia was set up in Quito for the northern lands. By 1680, the Lima Audiencia covered a big area along the coast from Lima to the Kingdom of Chile and up to the Port of Paita. Inland, its reach went to places like San Miguel de Piura, Cajamarca, and Chachapoyas, among others, bordering regions governed by the Royal Audiencia of la Plata and the City of Cusco.