We have spent two full days in Arequipa, which is a UNESCO heritage site and about 2335 meters in altitude. Population, around one million, it is the second largest city in Peru next to Lima. The City was founded by the Spanish in 1540, but because of the amount of earthquakes suffered over the years, a lot of the colonial architecture is not original. The last earthquake was in 2001 and damaged the beautiful cathedral in the main square. When Arequipa was founded, it was the main centre where silver from Potosi was transported to the port on the coast for shipment to Spain. Arequipa is the capital of the region, and sits in a valley surrounded by the extinct volcanoes Chachani, Misty, and Pichupichu. It is also known as the "White City" because many of its churches, convents, and mansions are built out of the white ash rock from the volcanoes.
Yesterday, we spent about 3 hours in the Santa Catalina Monestery. This is a fabulous colonial building which has been restored to demonstrate the life of the Dominican nuns over the years. Apparently, there are still 30 nuns living in the convent. Today, we took a 4 hour tour in and around the city. This included a visit to the Founder´s house outside the city, and old mill which has been operating for over 300 years, and various miradors and other interesting sights. The main square, Plaza des Aramas is quite beautiful with the white cathedral at one end and arches around the other 3 sides.
Arequipa seems like quite a nice town. It has a bustling street life which seems to close down around 11 p.m. Food is generally good and there are many restaurants. People are friendly, but you do have to watch yourself from the point of view of theft - much like any other city.
Tomorrow we leave here and head for the Nazca Lines, Huacachina, and Lima on May 19, 20, 21. Since we are camping for a couple of nights, we may not be in touch until we hit Lima.
Yesterday, we spent about 3 hours in the Santa Catalina Monestery. This is a fabulous colonial building which has been restored to demonstrate the life of the Dominican nuns over the years. Apparently, there are still 30 nuns living in the convent. Today, we took a 4 hour tour in and around the city. This included a visit to the Founder´s house outside the city, and old mill which has been operating for over 300 years, and various miradors and other interesting sights. The main square, Plaza des Aramas is quite beautiful with the white cathedral at one end and arches around the other 3 sides.
Arequipa seems like quite a nice town. It has a bustling street life which seems to close down around 11 p.m. Food is generally good and there are many restaurants. People are friendly, but you do have to watch yourself from the point of view of theft - much like any other city.
Tomorrow we leave here and head for the Nazca Lines, Huacachina, and Lima on May 19, 20, 21. Since we are camping for a couple of nights, we may not be in touch until we hit Lima.
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