Historic Centre of Arequipa

Historical Centre of the City of Arequipa

UNESCO World Heritage Site
Cathedral of Arequipa
Location	Arequipa, Arequipa Province, Arequipa Region, Peru
Criteria	Cultural: (i), (iv)
Reference	1016
Inscription	2000 (24th Session)
Area	166.52 ha (411.5 acres)
Buffer zone	165.47 ha (408.9 acres)
Coordinates	16°24′S 71°32′W
Location of Historic Centre of Arequipa in Peru

In December 2000, UNESCO declared the historical center of Arequipa a World Heritage Site, stating the following:

"The historical center of Arequipa is an example of ornamented architecture, represents a masterpiece of the creative coalition of European and native characteristics. A colonial town challenged by the conditions of nature, the indigenous influences, the conquest process and evangelism as well as for a spectacular natural scenario."

Map of the historical centre

Description

The historic centre of Arequipa, built in volcanic sillar rock, represents an integration of European and native building techniques and characteristics, expressed in the admirable work of colonial masters and Criollo and Indian masons. This combination of influences is illustrated by the city's robust walls, archways and vaults, courtyards and open spaces, and the intricate Baroque decoration of its facades.

Monastery of Santa Catalina