A City Built Of White Volcanic Rock

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Located in southern Peru and the capital of the Arequipa region is the second most densely populated city in Peru, Arequipa. The city is situated in the Andes Mountains with the snow-capped El Misti volcano towering over it. Arequipa is also known as “The White City” because of the white volcanic rock that was used in the buildings during the colonial era. The city had become the chief commercial hub of southern Peru soon after its establishment and played an important role in the history of the country. In the year 2000, Arequipa’s historic city center was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The historical city center, which comprises of buildings from the colonial Spanish period, is the most sought after tourist places of interest in Arequipa. The Main Square, Town Hall and Basilica Cathedral of Arequipa are the three most impressive buildings in the center that are made of Sillar (white volcanic rock). Other buildings of interest include the Saint Catalina Monastery, the 17th century Company Church, Church and Convent of La Merced, La Recoleta, a Franciscan convent, the 16th century San Francisco Church built in the colonial style among various other structures. Important colonial houses include La Casa del Moral, Goyeneche Palace and others.

In the suburbs, you can visit the Villa Hermosa de Yanahuara, which lies 2 km from the city and is renowned for its Andalusia style churches. Villa de Cayma with its charming 17th century church and Carmen Alto that offers a panoramic view of Arequipa, Sabandia valley with its 18th century mill and the La Mansion del Fundador are also worth visiting. The Alfredo Rodriguez Ballon International Airport located in the Cerro Colorada district; 12 km from the city center serves Arequipa. Arequipa has a good road network and a railway system, but the railway network is now used only for goods transport.

As for traditional cuisines, you will find that Spanish influence is highly prevalent in Arequipan food. If you wish to savor some of these local delicacies then you must visit one of the Picanterias, where traditional food is offered. Arequipa enjoys a warm and dry climate throughout the year, although night temperatures could fall to 10 degrees, especially in the months of June, July and August. Tourism plays an important role in the city’s economy, being the third most sought after tourist destination in Peru, following Lima and Cuzco.