Arequipa – the “White City” in Peru

Arequipa owes its Latin American environment not only to the lively urban landscape but also to its architecture: many of the buildings in the center of the city were built during the Spanish colonial era. The main square of Arequipa, the Plaza de Armas with its cathedral, is a must see. The cathedral rises above the square, which is the ideal place to walk, sit and chat thanks to its structural design and sophisticated planting.

The cathedral forms the outline of an entire side of the place. The bottom of the cathedral is the Misti, which is the symbol of the city and also the coat of arms represented: a sublime image. The cathedral is also evidence of European influence in Peru: it was built during the colonial era, its organ comes from Belgium, the pulpit of France. Italy marble was used in part for the construction. The bell in the tower comes from England.

Another place worth seeing is the monastery of Santa Catalina, which is characterized in its architectural style by different periods. This mixture of style was caused by the fact that over the centuries the monastery was repeatedly damaged by earthquakes. The renovation work was carried out in the style of each era. Most of the volcanic rock used for construction comes from the immediate surroundings of Arequipa. The monastery has a large complex and is almost a city of the city. Small alleys and numerous buildings attract visitors, only since 1970 is it open to the public.

• The National Reserve Lagunas de Mejía: On the coast, 20 kilometers from the city of Mollendo. Natural scenario of 690 hectares with varying degrees of salinity, swamps, totorales, salines and gramadales. Up to 157 species of birds live in this area.
• The Sumbay Caves: Located 88 kilometers from Arequipa. The caves are located in the Natural Reserve of Salinas and Aguada Blanca and house more than 500 cave paintings. These depictions, possibly made by the first settlers in the area, are approximately 6,000 to 8,000 years old. Depicted are human figures, auquénidos (camelid species), pumas etc.
• Imata Steinwald: Very original rock formation on the way to Puno. at an altitude of 4350 m. Looking at these unique rock formations gives the impression that the rocks are shaped like different animals.
• Punta de Bombon: The magnificent beaches are located about 2 hours Arequipa away and are ideal for family holidays.
• Mollendo and its beaches: The resort and health resort in southern Peru is about 2 hours from Arequipa. Long beaches and leisure centers offer variety and relaxation.
• The beaches of Camaná. The small coastal town has white beaches and is a popular destination. Approximately 3 hours away.
• Campiña Arequipeña. This is the name of the rural and agricultural area around Arequipa, with beautiful color combinations, and platforms from the Inca era. From the Mirador de Sachaca you have a beautiful panorama of Arequipa and its volcanoes.

Ampato

In 1995, an American archaeologist discovered the mummified body of an Inca girl on the top of the Ampato volcano, about 100 kilometers from Arequipa: Juanita, the ice girl. It can be seen today in the Museo Santuarios Andinos.

Visitors to the San Camilo market get a special impression of Peruvian daily life: crowds of exotic fruits, vegetables and varieties of potatoes are sold, ranging from yellow to red and from violet to black.

The neighborhood of Yanahuara is the Mirador de Arequipa, which offers a clear view. of the three volcanoes. For friends of literature, visit the birthplace of Mario Vargas Llosa, the author of “Death in the Andes.”

And if you are curious about where sweaters and hats come with the famous stylized alpacas, Arequipa is the place for you: Just outside the old town is Mundo Alpaca, a large textile shop and manufacturer of these garments. A free introduction to the production and the opportunity to pet the animals is part of the company’s offer.