Guided in Arequipa and the Monastery of Santa Catalina

Arequipa, Peru’s "White City," captivates visitors with its rich cultural heritage. A guided tour through the city culminates in the renowned Monastery of Santa Catalina, a cloistered nunnery that’s an architectural jewel. Explore its vibrant gardens, intricate cloisters, and uncover the legends and history that lie within these hallowed walls. Prepare to be immersed in the artistic expression and tranquility that make this monastery a truly unforgettable part of Arequipa’s story.

Key Points

• Arequipa is known as the "White City" for its stunning colonial architecture, which blends European and indigenous traditions.
• The Plaza de Armas serves as the heart of Arequipa’s social and cultural life, surrounded by ornate colonial buildings.
• The Arequipa Cathedral is a remarkable example of Spanish colonial architecture, featuring intricate baroque-style decorations.
• The Church and Cloisters of the Company of Jesus showcases stunning Baroque-style architecture and provides insights into the Jesuits’ influence.
• The Monastery of Saint Catherine of Siena offers a glimpse into the rich history and architectural beauty of this cloistered nunnery.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The White City of Arequipa

Though known as the "White City" for its striking colonial architecture, Arequipa is much more than just a visually appealing destination.

This historic Peruvian city boasts a rich cultural heritage, with key sites like the Plaza de Armas, Arequipa Cathedral, and the Church and Cloisters of the Company of Jesus showcasing the influence of Spanish colonial rule.

Visitors can explore the city’s dairy farms, which played a significant role in trade and barter. The tour offers an immersive experience, allowing travelers to explore Arequipa’s unique blend of European and indigenous traditions.

Exploring the Plaza De Armas

As the tour commences, visitors are immediately captivated by the grandeur of the Plaza de Armas, the central square of Arequipa.

Surrounded by impressive colonial architecture, the plaza features the striking Arequipa Cathedral, with its intricate facades and twin bell towers.

Strolling through the square, guests admire the ornate balconies and arcades that line the buildings, showcasing the city’s Spanish heritage.

The guide provides insights into the plaza’s history and significance, highlighting its role as the heart of Arequipa’s social and cultural life.

The guide’s insights into the plaza’s history and significance underscore its pivotal role in Arequipa’s social and cultural landscape.

Exploring this iconic landmark sets the stage for the tour’s deeper dive into the city’s rich past.

The Arequipa Cathedral

Stepping away from the lively Plaza de Armas, the tour group now turns its attention to the magnificent Arequipa Cathedral. Looming over the square, the cathedral’s striking white silhouette captivates onlookers.

As the guide explains, the cathedral is a remarkable example of Spanish colonial architecture, blending European and indigenous Andean influences.

Key features include:

1. The cathedral’s twin bell towers, which soar high above the city.

2. The intricate façade, adorned with baroque-style decorations and statues.

3. The grand interior, featuring ornate altars, stained-glass windows, and a towering central altar.

4. The cathedral’s role as a hub of religious and cultural life in Arequipa.

The Church and Cloisters of the Company of Jesus

After exploring the grandeur of the Arequipa Cathedral, the tour group continues its journey through the city’s architectural wonders.

The next stop is the Church and Cloisters of the Company of Jesus, a stunning example of Baroque-style architecture. Visitors marvel at the intricate carvings and vibrant murals that adorn the interior.

The cloisters, with their serene gardens and peaceful ambiance, offer a glimpse into the lives of the Jesuits who once occupied the space.

The tour guide provides insightful commentary, highlighting the historical significance and cultural influence of this remarkable religious complex.

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Visiting Dairy Farms Bronce and Cabezona

From the Church and Cloisters of the Company of Jesus, the tour group next visits two dairy farms that hold historical significance for trade and barter in Arequipa.

At Bronce and Cabezona farms, visitors learn about their pivotal role in the region’s economy. The farms showcase:

1. Traditional dairy production methods.

2. Historical bartering and trading practices.

3. Architectural elements reflecting Spanish colonial influences.

4. The farms’ evolution from agricultural hubs to modern-day attractions.

These visits provide a unique glimpse into Arequipa’s rich cultural heritage and the enduring importance of its agricultural roots.

The Monastery of Saint Catherine of Siena

The tour group’s final stop is the Monastery of Saint Catherine of Siena, a cloistered nunnery that offers visitors a chance to explore its rich history and stunning architecture.

The tour includes exploration of the monastery’s cloisters, gardens, and an art gallery. Guests can discover the legends and history hidden within the monastery’s walls.

The tour concludes at the group’s hotel or another preferred location in central Arequipa around 1:00 p.m.

Throughout the tour, the live guide provides engaging insights into Arequipa’s architecture and culture in both English and Spanish.

Cloisters, Gardens, and Art Gallery

As visitors step inside the Monastery of Saint Catherine of Siena, they’re immediately immersed in a captivating world of cloisters, gardens, and an art gallery.

The expansive cloisters feature stunning architecture, offering a serene setting for reflection. The lush gardens provide a peaceful respite, showcasing a diverse array of flora.

The on-site art gallery houses a collection of religious artwork, revealing the monastery’s rich cultural heritage. Exploring these spaces offers visitors a deeper understanding of the monastery’s significance:

1. Architectural beauty

2. Tranquil contemplation

3. Artistic expression

4. Historical significance

Legends and History of the Monastery

Within the walls of the Monastery of Saint Catherine of Siena, visitors uncover a tapestry of legends and history that have shaped its enduring legacy. From tales of devoted nuns to architectural marvels, the monastery’s storied past captivates all who enter. To further explore its rich heritage, consider the following insights:

| Legend | History | Architecture |

| — | — | — |

| The ghost of a nun is said to haunt the cloisters. | The monastery was founded in 1579 by a group of Dominican nuns. | The monastery’s ornate facades blend Moorish, Spanish, and indigenous Peruvian influences. |

| Miraculous healing powers are attributed to the monastery’s water sources. | The monastery was closed for over a century before reopening in the 1970s. | The buildings were constructed using the local sillar white volcanic stone. |

| Legends of hidden treasures and secret passages abound. | The monastery has produced many notable figures, including poets and scholars. | The complex features intricate courtyards, gardens, and a renowned art gallery. |

Things To Know

Is the Tour Suitable for Individuals With Mobility Challenges?

The tour may not be fully accessible for individuals with mobility challenges. Some sites have uneven terrain and stairs. However, the tour provider should be contacted to discuss any specific needs or accommodations that can be arranged.

Can the Tour Be Customized to Accommodate Special Dietary Needs?

The tour can accommodate special dietary needs, such as vegetarian or gluten-free, with advance notice. Guests should inform the tour operator of any dietary restrictions when booking to ensure their needs are met during the tour.

What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Tour?

The tour’s maximum group size isn’t specified, but it’s a small-group experience. Guests can inquire about group size when booking to ensure it meets their needs.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Children or Seniors?

The tour doesn’t explicitly mention any discounts for children or seniors. Prices are listed as starting from Kč 692 per person, suggesting a standard rate regardless of age.

Can the Tour Be Booked in Other Languages Besides English and Spanish?

The tour can also be booked in other languages upon request, though English and Spanish are the primary options available. Clients should inquire about language availability when making their reservation.

Sum Up

A guided tour in Arequipa provides a captivating window into the city’s rich cultural heritage, culminating in a visit to the Monastery of Santa Catalina. This cloistered nunnery showcases stunning architecture, vibrant gardens, and intriguing history, offering an immersive experience that highlights the artistic expression and tranquility of this unique blend of European and indigenous traditions.

You can check availability for your dates here: