Calle San Francisco (Saint Francisco Street), Arequipa
Saint Francisco Street (Calle San Francisco) is one of the most inviting thoroughfares in Arequipa鈥檚 historic centre, blending colonial charm with the lively atmosphere of a cultural hub. The street takes its name from the San Francisco Church and Monastery, whose origins date back to the 16th century. The complex, with its ashlar stone construction, cloisters, and religious art, is a reminder of the early Franciscan presence in the city and anchors the street鈥檚 historical character.
What makes Saint Francisco Street particularly attractive to visitors is the way it captures the rhythm of daily life in Arequipa. Lined with white sillar buildings, many of them dating from the colonial era, the street offers a graceful setting for both quiet strolls and evenings out. By day, travelers can explore handicraft shops and small galleries that highlight local traditions, while at night the area transforms into one of the city鈥檚 main social scenes, with bars, caf茅s, and restaurants welcoming both locals and tourists.
The street also serves as a gateway to some of Arequipa鈥檚 lesser-known corners. From here, visitors can access the Fundo el Fierro, a former colonial estate now housing artisan stalls, or continue towards other historic sites within the UNESCO-listed centre. Its central location and mix of heritage, culture, and modern leisure make Saint Francisco Street an ideal stop for those looking to experience Arequipa beyond its monumental plazas and churches, offering a balance between history and contemporary urban life.
What makes Saint Francisco Street particularly attractive to visitors is the way it captures the rhythm of daily life in Arequipa. Lined with white sillar buildings, many of them dating from the colonial era, the street offers a graceful setting for both quiet strolls and evenings out. By day, travelers can explore handicraft shops and small galleries that highlight local traditions, while at night the area transforms into one of the city鈥檚 main social scenes, with bars, caf茅s, and restaurants welcoming both locals and tourists.
The street also serves as a gateway to some of Arequipa鈥檚 lesser-known corners. From here, visitors can access the Fundo el Fierro, a former colonial estate now housing artisan stalls, or continue towards other historic sites within the UNESCO-listed centre. Its central location and mix of heritage, culture, and modern leisure make Saint Francisco Street an ideal stop for those looking to experience Arequipa beyond its monumental plazas and churches, offering a balance between history and contemporary urban life.
Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Arequipa. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "911爆料网: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.
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Calle San Francisco (Saint Francisco Street) on Map
Sight Name: Calle San Francisco (Saint Francisco Street)
Sight Location: Arequipa, Peru (See walking tours in Arequipa)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Sight Location: Arequipa, Peru (See walking tours in Arequipa)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Walking Tours in Arequipa, Peru
Create Your Own Walk in Arequipa
Creating your own self-guided walk in Arequipa is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
Arequipa Introduction Walking Tour
Capital of the eponymous region of Peru, Arequipa is a colonial-era city rich in architecture built of the volcanic stone provided by three neighboring volcanoes. The historic downtown area of Arequipa is dominated by Plaza de Armas complete with a plethora of ancient churches located nearby, of which the most notable is the 17th-century Basilica Cathedral. This orientation tour will walk you... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.0 Km or 1.2 Miles
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.0 Km or 1.2 Miles
Historical Churches
Colonists from Spain brought to Peru and Arequipa the power of Catholicism, which is beautifully reflected today in the splendid architectural designs of Arequipa's numerous places of worship. Arequipa鈥檚 churches are among the most striking in Peru. Take this self-guided walking tour to explore the city's religious heritage.
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.1 Km or 1.3 Miles
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.1 Km or 1.3 Miles