Peru is one of the countries in South America that receives the most tourists. Much of this flow is explained by the natural beauties of the Andes and the secular culture of indigenous peoples. In addition to Cusco and Machu Picchu, the most famous destinations, it is worth visiting the city of Arequipa.
Known as the “White City”, due to the color of most of its buildings, Arequipa is home to a large part of the Peruvian elite, being one of the richest cities in the country. In addition, it is a World Heritage Site according to UNESCO and has several attractions. Check out everything about the city in this text!
History of Arequipa
The city was founded in the year 1540 by the Spanish colonizer Francisco Pizarro. It is worth noting that there was an ancient Inca city on the site. Surrounded by three volcanoes, the city has a unique skyline, with a view of three large mountains.
Furthermore, as it is located in an unstable region, the city has already suffered some major earthquakes in the 19th century. However, the city has never suffered a similar phenomenon since then. Most of the constructions were rebuilt in order to resist the natural phenomena mentioned above.
How To Go To Arequipa
Lima is the main point of arrival for anyone wishing to visit any city in Peru. From Lima, you can travel to other cities by car, bus or train.
However, for Arequipa, it is not recommended that you use these options, considering that the distance from one city to another is approximately 1,000 km.
Thus, the most convenient way to get to Arequipa is by plane, departing from Lima, which has several direct flights to the city. Rodriguez Ballon Airport is located just 8 km from the center of Arequipa and is the main point of arrival.
Viewpoint of Carmen Alto
The Mirador is located at a great height. Thus, it is ideal for those who enjoy looking at the landscape and the horizon. It is also important to better observe the landscape of the city’s volcanoes. In addition, the offer of natural fruits and juices are a strong point of the place.
Thus, the place is much appreciated by tourists during the late afternoon, as a space for contemplation.
Archaeological Museum of the University San Agustín
Despite the Inca Empire being the most important and historically relevant in Peru, other peoples developed in the region. Among the main ones, we can highlight the Tiwanaku, Naza and Wari, in addition to the Incas.
Thus, the Archaeological Museum of the San Agustín University stands out for storing artifacts from all the civilizations mentioned above, as well as precious metal objects from the colonial period.
Monastery of Santa Catalina
The Monastery of Santa Catalina is one of the main buildings in the city of Arequipa. Built in the 16th century, it is one of the oldest buildings in the city. Despite being just a monastery, the building has a large constructive area, resembling a village in size.
In addition, the strong red tones of its structures call attention. Another interesting point to be pointed out is the opening to visitation, which only took place in 1970, after the pope’s visit to the place.
Plaza de Armas
Thus, like Cusco, the city of Arequipa has its “plaza mayor”, surrounded by the most important buildings in the city, such as public buildings and the Cathedral. In addition, it has an excellent landscaping work, with beautiful flowers and plants typical of the Andes region.
Therefore, Peru is an essential destination for those who want to get to know South America more deeply. Cradle of one of the greatest pre-Columbian civilizations, the country has many attractions and Arequipa, both for its architecture and its geography, stands out.
And you, what are you waiting for to discover Arequipa, the White City of Peru?
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