Arequipa, the white city
July 30, 2019
After Huacachina we returned to Ica in order to catch the overnight bus to Arequipa. The ride, which was supposed to last 12 hours, turned out to be an epic 15 hours due to traffic problems along the way.
Although we had booked a seat on a luxury bus, we arrived exhausted in Arequipa. It was such a pleasure to check in info a lovely boutique hotel very near to the historic center of the city.
After settling in into our room, we made our way to the Plaza de Armas. Only one word came to our mind: Wow! Historical buildings are arranged around a large, well designed central place overlooked by a majestic cathedral.
The city is so much calmer than Lima or Ica. Cabs are not honking all the time and drivers have more respect for pedestrians. The city seems to have Moorish influences as well as Spanish influences. It is surrounded by volcanos and snow topped mountains.
It is hard to convey the beauty of this city and we hope that our photographs will do it justice.
We have spent most of our fist day in the Convent of Santa Catalina built in the 15th century where cloistered nuns from very wealthy families spent their entire life from the age of 12 until their death.
We can only describe this convent as a village within the city with its own streets, gardens, piazzas and a church. It is just an amazing place with an extraordinary history.
These wealthy nuns, although closeted, had servants and almost palatial accommodations. Their families funded the build of their homes and had to pay large sums of money to keep their daughters well looked after. It was a truly memorable experience and our guide was excellent in explaining the history of the convent, which is an unmissable and unique site to visit. We took close to 150 pictures from the convent citadel and have selected a few for you to enjoy in the gallery.
