Created by Law 9162 of November 5, 1940,[2] it is a middle-class residential district and has the most parks in Lima, also housing several branches of banks, local private universities and major corporations.

Its name was granted by José de San Martín on April 10, 1822, as a recognition of the patriotism shown by its inhabitants during the Peruvian War of Independence.

Pueblo Libre has a rich history - museums, famous restaurants, and art galleries which are located in this district of Lima.

Francisco Pizarro placed the cross in Pueblo Libre; soldiers would pray before going to war or when making a hard distant journey.

Situated not a long walk from Pueblo Libre's pleasant plaza is the Museo Larco Hererra, which houses the largest collection of Moche artifacts in the country.