It opened in 1885, with the building designed by Gustave Eiffel in 1897, and its metallic structure built by the French firm Schneider of Le Creusot.

It has long been a reference point for travellers and locals; it is so well known that it gave the name to the municipality and commune where it is located, Estación Central.

It has experienced a revival as the government railway Empresa de los Ferrocarriles del Estado has been modernized to restore the bygone appeal for train travel.

Many local bus lines stop at the station and a medium-sized shopping center is adjacent.

The nearby San Borja Bus Terminal is within walking distance and connected by a medium-sized complex of shopping centers.