Arequipa is Peru's second largest city and one of the country's most important tourist centers. Located on the edge of the Altiplano plateau, at an altitude of approx. 2300 m above sea level, it offers dazzling views of the three volcanoes el Misti, Chachani and Pichu Pichu, its historic center, built in the colonial era, is inscribed on the UNESCO list.
The city was founded by the Spaniards in 1540 on the site of an Inca settlement. Its remarkable historic center is built of white volcanic stone called sillar. Thanks to its color, Arequipa is often called the "White City".
A visit to the historic center of Arequipa includes a visit to the local churches. The most important of these are the Basilica of Arequipa with the Cathedral Museum, the Compania Church, the Church of La Merced, the Church of San Augustin and the Monastery of St. Catherine. There are also colonial houses and palaces. The main social life is concentrated in the Main Square surrounded by cafes and restaurants.
Among the attractions of Arequipa is also the viewpoint el Mirador de Yanahuara, which offers a postcard view of the city. Many tourists also make the city a starting point for the famous Colca and Cotahuasi canyons. From here you can also go to the cultivated terraces of Andenes de Sabandía, where there are, among others, historic stone Młun Sabandia.