Geography

• Piura is on the northwestern coast of Peru in the province of the same name. It lies 4 degrees south of the Equator and is significantly affected by the El Nino weather pattern.
  
  

Cuisine

• The local favorite is a dish called seco de chavelo made of beef, green plantains and cilantro. The coastal location supplies Piura with plenty of seafood; ceviche is a favorite.
  
  

Music

• Piura is famous for Tondero, Cumanana and Salsa music. It is played by cowboys, but has a distinctive Gypsy influence.
  
  

Sports

• Piura is renowned for its surfing. Before modern surfing, the locals would surf on reed boats bringing their daily catch to shore. Today there are lessons available for all skill levels on some of the best waves on the Pacific.
  
  

Attractions

• Visitors to Piura come for the Spanish architecture, many festivals, traditional artwork and museums. In addition to its history, the city has an ecological preserve and warm, sandy beaches.