Arequipa

This monastery, founded in 1580, is run by nuns of the Second Dominican Order. With a size exceeding 20,000 square meters, it housed up to 450 people but only about a third of them were nuns from upper class families and the rest were their servants. There are still about 20 nuns living in the northern corner of the complex; the rest of the monastery is open to the public and probably the city’s most visited historical monument.

This constitutes the heart of historic Arequipa. The Cathedral lines the entire north side of this plaza. The two-storied arcades made of local sillar stone and neoclassical style line the remaining three sides of the square. This is probably one of the most elegant town squares in Peru, due to a combination of homogenous classical architecture, the abundant palm trees, and a unique view of the two spectacular, often snow-capped volcanoes.

The elegant Basilica Cathedral of Arequipa occupies an entire side of the city’s main square and was severely damaged twice in its history. In 1844 it was destroyed by a fire and in 1868, it was struck by an earthquake. Much of what you can see today is a neoclassical reconstruction dating from the second half of the 19th century.

You can see the historic center of Arequipa from above with a visit to this famous lookout point in the Yanahuara district. Elegant stone arches are carved with the prose and poetry of Arequipa’s many notable writers and also provide perfect frames for photos of El Misti. It is a local tradition among young lovers to go to Mirador de Yanahuara to pledge eternal love and affection with the Lord of Arequipa (Misti) as a witness.

At the northern end of the cloisters is a chapel adorned with engravings for an example of the gorgeous sillar stone structures. The archways and stone patio have been converted into shops, food stalls, and cafes. Shopping here is a wonderful mixture of handcrafts, textiles, and souvenirs, all within an aesthetically enchanting courtyard. Grab a coffee, people watch and pick up gifts in the heart of Arequipa.

The oldest neighborhood in Arequipa, known for its charming colonial architecture and narrow cobblestone streets. San Lazaro is a trendy and chic neighborhood with great cafés and restaurants. Plaza Campo Redondo is a small square but is just as stunning as the rest of the district. People-watching and dining are great options here, and it is a beautiful place to spend the day admiring the atmosphere of the White City.