Arequipa, Peru’s second largest city, is a bustling metropolis located in the south of the country. It is the capital of the Arequipa region and is home to over one million people. Arequipa is known for its stunning architecture, its vibrant culture, and its long and varied history.
Arequipa was founded in 1540 by the Spanish conquistador Francisco Pizarro as the capital of the Spanish Viceroyalty of Peru. The city was designed in a grid pattern, with a central plaza surrounded by government buildings, churches, and homes. The city was built on the site of an ancient Incan settlement, and many of its buildings were built from the stones of the Incan ruins.
Arequipa quickly became an important center of trade and commerce, as well as a cultural hub. It was home to many important universities, libraries, and museums, and was a center of intellectual and cultural activity. The city was also home to many notable figures, including the famous Peruvian poet César Vallejo and the Nobel Prize-winning novelist Mario Vargas Llosa.
Arequipa was also an important military center during the War of the Pacific (1879-1883). The city was the site of the Battle of Arequipa, in which the Chilean forces defeated the Peruvian army. After the war, Arequipa was occupied by the Chilean forces until 1884.
Arequipa has a long history of earthquakes and volcanic eruptions, which have caused significant damage to the city over the years. In 2001, the city was struck by a magnitude 8.2 earthquake, which destroyed many of the city’s buildings and monuments. In 2015, the city was again struck by an earthquake, this time measuring 7.2 on the Richter scale.
Today, Arequipa is a vibrant and modern city, with many attractions for visitors. It is home to some of the most beautiful colonial architecture in Peru, as well as many museums, galleries, and cultural events. It is also a popular destination for outdoor activities, such as hiking, mountain biking, and rock climbing.
Arequipa is a city with a long and fascinating history, and it is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Peru. From its stunning colonial architecture to its vibrant culture and outdoor activities, Arequipa is sure to be an unforgettable experience.