Santiago de Surco

Santiago de Surco, also called Surco distrito (district), southeastern Lima–Callao metropolitan area, Peru. Created in about 1824 (reorganized 1893 and 1929), it stretches eastward from the Surco River to the foothills of the Andes and is bisected from north to south by the Pan-American Highway. The surrounding area has changed, as farmlands have given way to the spreading community. Upper-income housing developments predominate, the rambling villas shielded from view by walls and lush gardens.

Private high schools, a state school, and the University of Lima (1963) are in the district. In the south is an aviation school. Recreational facilities include the Lima Polo and Hunt Club, a golf club, and a race track. Pop. (2005) 272,690.