Arequipa Travel Guide
Arequipa is located in the south of Peru and is the second most populous city of the country. The city is made up of several buildings built of sillar, a pearly white volcanic rock. It is these white buildings that gave Arequipa its nickname of The White City.
Arequipa is situated at the foot of the El Misti volcano. Although this volcano is considered dormant, El Misti had huge eruptions between the years 1438 and 1471. The city is surrounded by more than 80 volcanoes, (known as the Valley of the Volcanoes) which resulted in the destruction of the city during the 17th century.
The modern city of Arequipa was founded on 15th August 1540 by Garci Manuel de Carbajal. Shortly after this, King Charles V of Spain gave it city status and a coat of arms. The years following this proved particularly fruitful regarding architecture, with many of the citys buildings were built shortly after.
Arequipa has become a city of great economic growth and is a significant producer of milk in Peru. This has resulted in an influx of immigration from the mountain areas, giving Arequipas diverse population.
The location of Arequipa, surrounded by volcanoes and mountains, gives the city an intimate secluded beauty. When visiting Peru, be sure to go to Arequipa and see the wonderful white buildings against the backdrop of the El Misti volcano.