LIMA, a department of the republic of Peru, in South America, bounded on the north by Truxillo, on the east by Junin and Ayacucho, on the south by Arequipa, and on the west by the Pacific Ocean. The Cordillera of the Andes ranges along its eastern side. The climate is considered as fine; and although the atmosphere is cloudy and humid, it seldom rains throughout the whole year. The heat is excessive along the coast; but as the country becomes more elevated towards the interior, the air becomes purer and more temperate. Earthquakes are frequent, from six to twelve occurring annually; and these convulsions of nature on a large scale seem to observe a periodical return at intervals of fifty years. It is watered by several streams, but none of any considerable size, the largest being the river Rimac, which, during the summer months, is much swollen by torrents from the Andes. The soil is good, and agricultural pursuits are followed to a considerable extent. The chief wealth of the country, however, consists in the produce of the mines, which are worked by proprietors in Lima. Next to Lima in importance is the sea-port of Callao, situated in the bay of that name, and containing a population of about 8000. The port is defended by three castles, which are surrounded with thick walls, a moat, and batteries of great strength. It is connected with the city of Lima by a straight road, about six miles in length. It was entirely destroyed by an earthquake in 1746, when upwards of 3000 of the inhabitants are said to have perished, and nineteen ships sunk in the harbour. Trade has lately much increased, and the town has greatly improved. Its appearance, however, is mean and unfavourable.