Arequipa Travel Guide, Peru

Arequipa, Peru - Overview

It is one of the most populous cities in Peru.  The city of Arequipa is surrounded by a snow-capped volcano El Misti. It is a 5822 meters high mountain overlooking the whole city. There are many historical building and monuments in this city including the colonial-era Spanish buildings.

Arequipa was named by UNESCO as one of the most historical and heritage sites of the world.  It is believed by most of the people that the name of the city is derived from Quechua phrase.

Arequipa was destroyed by a deadly earthquake and then rebuilt by the Spanish. Another disastrous earthquake of 7.9 magnitudes destroyed the city once again. Archeological and historical findings indicate that this city has been inhabited from 5000 - 6000 BCE.  

The city was once occupied by Aymara Indians.  Modern Arequipa was founded in 1540 by Spanish conquistador Francisco Pizarro. Juan de la Torre y Díaz Chacón was one of the founders of Arequipa and the first mayor of the city.  

Arequipa was awarded the status of a city by King Charles V. The city has many architectures and relics of the Spanish style. Most of the times, Arequipa remained isolated. In 1870, a great coastal port Mollendo was established in Arequipa, which made it a great trading center between Peru and other countries of the South America.

Arequipa is a greatly influenced by the Spanish colonial architecture. There are a large number of tourism spots of historical and cultural importance.  Some of the most popular touristic sites in Arequipa include the Goyeneche Palace, Colca Canyon, Jose Luis Bustamante y Rivero, Cathedral of Arequipa, Santa Catalina Monastery, Compañia de Jesus, Historic centre of Arequipa and Andean Condor.

Every year a large number of tourists from South America and other parts of the world come explore to explore the tourist resources and wonders.

The city of Arequipa is home to well known educational institutes of Peru. Some of the most popular educational institutes are the Universidad Nacional de San Agustín de Arequipa, the Universidad católica de San Pablo and the local state university. There are also many private educational and technical institutes in the city.

Arequipa is served by all the major transportation options including buses, railway and air transportation. Arequipa has Rodríguez Ballón International Airport, which is served for the local and international flights throughout the year.

Exploring Arequipa can be a great fun for those who love Arequipa’s history and colonial architecture.