Historical Centre of the City of Arequipa
Location: Arequipa, Peru
Year of Inscription: 2000
Criteria: (i)to represent a masterpiece of human creative genius;
(iv)to be an outstanding example of a type of building, architectural or technological ensemble or landscape which illustrates (a) significant stage(s) in human history;
Overview: The Historical Centre of the City of Arequipa is renowned for its well-preserved colonial architecture, including beautiful churches, mansions, and squares.
Prominent Features:
History: Arequipa was founded in 1540 by Spanish conquistadors and became an important colonial city due to its strategic location on the trade route between Lima and Cusco. The Historical Centre of Arequipa reflects the blending of Spanish and indigenous architectural styles.
Family-Friendly Activities:
Fun Fact: Arequipa is known as the "White City" due to the extensive use of sillar, a white volcanic stone, in the construction of its buildings.
Entry Fees: The entry fees for specific attractions within the Historical Centre of Arequipa may vary.
How to Reach it: Arequipa has an international airport, Rodríguez Ballón International Airport, with regular flights from Lima and other major cities in Peru. It is also well-connected by bus services from various destinations in Peru.
From Lima:
From Nasca:
From Cuzco:
Where to Stay: Arequipa offers a range of accommodation options, including hotels, hostels, and guesthouses. The historic center has several hotels that provide a convenient location for exploring the city's attractions.
Next Stop: Qhapaq Ñan, Andean Road System
Year of Inscription: 2000
Criteria: (i)to represent a masterpiece of human creative genius;
(iv)to be an outstanding example of a type of building, architectural or technological ensemble or landscape which illustrates (a) significant stage(s) in human history;
Overview: The Historical Centre of the City of Arequipa is renowned for its well-preserved colonial architecture, including beautiful churches, mansions, and squares.
Prominent Features:
- Plaza de Armas: The central square of Arequipa, surrounded by impressive colonial buildings, including the Cathedral of Arequipa.
- Santa Catalina Monastery: A fascinating monastery that resembles a small town with its colorful walls, narrow streets, and beautiful gardens.
- Church of the Society of Jesus: A magnificent Baroque-style church adorned with intricate carvings and artwork.
- Casa del Moral: An elegant mansion showcasing Spanish colonial architecture and housing a museum that offers insights into Arequipa's history.
- Yanahuara District: Known for its picturesque plaza and its viewpoint, providing stunning panoramic views of the city and the surrounding volcanoes.
History: Arequipa was founded in 1540 by Spanish conquistadors and became an important colonial city due to its strategic location on the trade route between Lima and Cusco. The Historical Centre of Arequipa reflects the blending of Spanish and indigenous architectural styles.
Family-Friendly Activities:
- Santa Catalina Monastery: Explore the vibrant alleys, beautiful courtyards, and chapels of the monastery, offering a unique experience for the whole family.
- Mundo Alpaca: Visit this interactive museum and learn about the alpaca and textile traditions of the region through engaging exhibits.
- Sabandía Mill: A charming water mill located just outside the city, where you can witness the traditional milling process and enjoy the surrounding gardens.
Fun Fact: Arequipa is known as the "White City" due to the extensive use of sillar, a white volcanic stone, in the construction of its buildings.
Entry Fees: The entry fees for specific attractions within the Historical Centre of Arequipa may vary.
- Santa Catalina Monastery: The entrance fee for adults is around 40 PEN (Peruvian Nuevo Sol), while students and children may receive discounted rates. Audio guides are available for an additional fee.
- Casa del Moral: Admission to Casa del Moral is typically around 10 PEN for adults, with reduced rates for students and children.
- Church of the Society of Jesus: There is usually no entry fee to visit the church. However, if you wish to enter the museum located inside the church, a small fee of around 10 PEN is charged.
- Yanahuara District: The viewpoint in Yanahuara is open to the public, and there is no entry fee to enjoy the panoramic views of Arequipa. However, if you choose to visit the nearby Yanahuara Church, a voluntary donation is appreciated.
How to Reach it: Arequipa has an international airport, Rodríguez Ballón International Airport, with regular flights from Lima and other major cities in Peru. It is also well-connected by bus services from various destinations in Peru.
From Lima:
- Bus: There are several bus companies that offer direct services from Lima to Arequipa. The journey takes approximately 14-16 hours, depending on the bus type and route.
- Flight: The quickest way to reach Arequipa from Lima is by air. There are frequent flights operated by various airlines, and the flight duration is around 1 hour and 30 minutes.
From Nasca:
- Bus: There are bus services available from Nasca to Arequipa. The journey takes approximately 10-12 hours, depending on the bus route and stops.
- There are no direct flights between Nasca and Arequipa. It's best to travel by bus or consider traveling via Lima.
From Cuzco:
- Bus: There are bus services that operate between Cuzco and Arequipa. The journey takes approximately 10-12 hours, depending on the bus route and stops.
- Flight: Another option is to take a domestic flight from Cuzco to Arequipa. Several airlines offer direct flights, and the flight duration is approximately 1 hour.
- Bus: There are bus services that operate between La Paz and Arequipa. The journey takes approximately 10-12 hours, depending on the route and border crossing procedures.
- Flight: It's also possible to take a flight from La Paz to Arequipa, although there are no direct flights. You may need to make a connecting flight in Lima or another city.
Where to Stay: Arequipa offers a range of accommodation options, including hotels, hostels, and guesthouses. The historic center has several hotels that provide a convenient location for exploring the city's attractions.
Next Stop: Qhapaq Ñan, Andean Road System