Religious, Spiritual sights in Arequipa
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A
Monasterio de Santa Catalina
Even if you’ve already overdosed on colonial edifices, this convent shouldn’t be missed. Occupying a whole block and guarded by imposing high walls, it is one of the most fascinating religious buildings in Peru. Nor is it just a religious building – this 20,000-sq-meter complex is almost a citadel within the city. It is a disorienting place with twisting passageways, ascetic living quarters, period furnishings and religious art – a photographer’s paradise.
reviewed
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B
Iglesia de la Compañía
Just off the southeast corner of the Plaza de Armas, this Jesuit church, one of the oldest in Arequipa, is noted for its ornate main facade and main altar, which is carved in the churrigueresque style (an intricate decorative motif popular during the late Spanish baroque period) and completely covered in gold leaf. To the left of the altar is the San Ignacio chapel, with a polychrome cupola smothered in junglelike murals of tropical flowers, fruit and birds, among which mingle warriors and angels.
reviewed
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Iglesia de San Miguel Arcángel
In the inner suburb of Cayma you’ll find the eye-catching Iglesia de San Miguel Arcángel, dating from 1730. For a tip, the church warden may take you up the small tower, which has panoramic views. To reach Cayma from Yanahuara, walk along San Vicente and then take Av León Velarde, or catch one of the regular combis (minibuses) marked ‘Cayma’ from Av Puente Grau (S1, 15 minutes).
reviewed
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Iglesia San Juan Batista
Turn right on Av Lima and walk five blocks to a small plaza, where you’ll find the Iglesia San Juan Batista, which dates from 1750. The popular Fiesta de la Virgen de Chapi is held on May 1. At the side of the plaza there’s a mirador (lookout) with excellent views of Arequipa and El Misti.
reviewed
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C
Iglesia de San Francisco
Originally built in the 16th century, Iglesia de San Francisco has been badly damaged by several earthquakes. It still stands, however, and visitors can see a large crack in the cupola – testimony to the power of quakes.
reviewed
