Arequipa, the colonial-era capital cradled by three majestic volcanoes, unfolds a narrative etched in white volcanic stone known as sillar. The #PlazadeArmas, with the 17th-century Basilica Cathedral at its core, reflects the city's rich history.
Also known as the legendary White City and home to over 1,300,000 inhabitants, Arequipa unfolds through the basin of the Chili River and into the western slopes of the Misti volcano.
In 2000, UNESCO recognized Arequipa as a World Heritage Site, honoring its diverse cultural heritage. Arequipa's traditional cuisine, rooted nearly 3,500 years in the past, harks back to an era when various ethnic groups cultivated and exchanged agricultural products in the fertile countryside. Corn, the main crop, was used for the popular local drink "chicha."
In addition to its gastronomic success, Arequipa pulses with vibrancy. Local dances come alive in the Plaza de Armas. Prayers resonate, carrying the hopes and stories of the people beneath the watchful gaze of Misti's volcanic slopes. Street vendors, with their colorful displays and aromatic offerings, add a lively flair to the bustling streets.