The city of Arequipa in southern Peru is considered one of the most beautiful in the country. At the end of the 18th century it was built up by the Spaniards with very colorful colonial-style buildings made of white volcanic stone. In the 19th century the city was almost destroyed by the earthquake, but it was completely restored almost to its original form.
According to timedictionary, Arequipa is considered the cultural capital of Peru, there are many beautiful cathedrals and parks. In addition, this city is a real paradise for gourmets. It is in Arequipa that Peruvian cuisine is presented in all its diversity, and here is the largest number of restaurants in the city per capita.
How to get there
The plane is the most convenient form of transport, as is almost everywhere in mountainous Peru: the local airport regularly receives flights from Lima, Cusco and other cities. You can get from the airport to the city center by taxi for about 25-35 PEN.
Another option is to arrive in Arequipa by intercity bus from Lima (16-18 hours on the way), Cusco (9 hours), Puno (5-6 hours) or Pisco (12-14 hours).
Shops and souvenirs
According to ejinhua, Arequipa is the world capital of alpaca wool production: it would be a crime not to buy something here made from this valuable and unusually warm fiber. Wool, yarn, and finished products are on sale: from decorative napkins to mittens, socks and scarves. The product is very expensive, but fully justifies its price.
Entertainment and attractions of Arequipa
The main attractions of the city are ancient monasteries and graceful churches: the convent of the Convento de Santa Catalina (16th century), the cathedral, the Jesuit church of La Campania, the churches of San Francisco and Santo Domingo.
Among the secular buildings of interest are the former mint of Casa de la Moneda and the Casa Moral mansion, as well as the cozy central square of Plaza de Armas, rebuilt in a characteristic colonial style. More than 250 local mansions are included in the architectural heritage of mankind. A separate point are the picturesque bridges of Arequipa – Puente Bolognese and Puente Fierro (by the way, designed by Eiffel himself).
You can get acquainted with the life of wealthy colonizers at the Mansion del Fundador Museum. And 180 km from Arequipa there is a unique natural site – the Colca Canyon, which is considered the deepest in the world.
