Arequipa Highlights
Arequipa is usually thought of as a good base for excursions into the great outdoors because of the nearby famous Canon del Colca flanked by snow-capped volcanic peaks, and the wild terrain of the Canon del Cotahuasi. The city is also a highlight in itself, with its many beautifully restored colonial mansions. Arequipa highlights include not only fascinating examples of colonial architecture but 17th century cathedrals, monastery and museums. Arequipa is known as the "White City" because its buildings are made out of off-white volcanic rock called sillar that sparkles in the sunlight. The city is a great place to hang out in between excursions. Visitors can enjoy the upbeat atmosphere, a pulsating nightlife, great shopping, and the excellent spicy food of the region.
Plaza de Armas
The main plaza of the city, the Plaza de Armas, is a great place to relax over a coffee or meal and marvel at the gorgeous views over ornate balconies. Nearby is the La Catedral, which dates back to 1656. The cathedral has been rebuilt several times because of damage due to earthquakes, but today its beautiful interior stretches the length of the Plaza, the only one in Peru that fills an entire area of a main plaza. Admission is free and open from 7-11:10am and 5-7:30pm Monday thru Saturday and 7am-1pm and 5-7pm on Sunday.
Museo Santury
Connected to the local University, this museum exhibits the frozen body of Juanita, the Inca Maiden sacrificed on the summit of Nevado Ampato over 500 years ago. Multilingual tours are offered, which consists of a video followed by an examination of burial artifacts.
Website
Monasterio de Santa Catalina
This 20,000 square foot religious complex stretches out like its own citadel of the city. It is one of the most fascinating colonial buildings in Peru. Once behind its huge imposing walls, you'll be transposed to a forgotten time of hidden staircases, narrow twisting streets, and austere living quarters.
Admission: US 10.50.
9am-5pm, the last entry at 4pm.
Colca Trek Website
Colonial Mansions
The Casa de Moral is a beautiful example of colonial architecture using off-white sillar from volcanic rock. Built in 1730, the mansion is located at Moral 318 and is open from 9am-5pm Monday thru Saturday. Another mansion close by is the Casa Ricketts at San Francisco 108. Since it's conception in 1738 it has served as an archbishop's palace, a seminary, and a home to wealthy families. Today it serves as a bank and is open to visitors Monday thru Friday 9:15am-12:45pm and 4:30pm-6:30pm and Saturday 9:30am-12:45pm.
Museo de Arte Virreinal de Santa Teresa
This magnificent 17th century Carmelite convent has just recently been opened up for public viewing. Visitors can enjoy the colonial-era buildings and beautifully restored rooms filled with period pieces and historical relics. Located at Melgar 303, Admission is US 3 dollars and visiting hours are 9am-4:30pm Mon.-Sat. and 9am-12:30pm Sun.
Colca Trek Website
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