Plaza de Armas (Arms Square), Arequipa (must see)
The Plaza de Armas, or Main Square, is the historic heart of Arequipa, founded alongside the city itself in 1540. From its beginnings as the centerpiece of Spanish colonial planning, it has remained the stage for civic, religious, and cultural life. Over the centuries, the plaza has undergone many changes, including the addition of a second level of arcades in 1915 and reconstruction after earthquakes in 1958 and 1960. Despite these transformations, the square has preserved its role as a place where history and community converge.
Framed by elegant arches and grand buildings, the Plaza de Armas reflects the unique character of Arequipa, often called the 鈥淲hite City鈥� for its use of sillar, a white volcanic stone. This material gives the square its luminous appearance, especially striking in the soft evening light. The cobblestone paths and ornate fa莽ades combine Spanish colonial design with Andean influences, creating a harmonious blend of styles that speaks to the city鈥檚 cultural heritage.
Dominating the square is the Arequipa Cathedral, whose imposing twin towers and sillar fa莽ade showcase the artistry of colonial builders. Completed in 1656, it is one of the city鈥檚 most iconic monuments. Nearby, the Church of the Company of Jesus, built in the 17th century, is admired for its intricate baroque fa莽ade, while the Church of La Merced, with its 18th-century towers, adds to the ensemble鈥檚 richness. Each building contributes to the plaza鈥檚 atmosphere, making it both an architectural showcase and a living gathering space.
Today, the Plaza de Armas remains the city鈥檚 main meeting point, alive with festivals, parades, and daily social life. From the celebrations of Arequipa鈥檚 anniversary to the colorful Carnival, the square continues to be where the community comes together. For visitors, it offers not only a glimpse into the past but also a vibrant introduction to the traditions that shape Arequipa today.
Framed by elegant arches and grand buildings, the Plaza de Armas reflects the unique character of Arequipa, often called the 鈥淲hite City鈥� for its use of sillar, a white volcanic stone. This material gives the square its luminous appearance, especially striking in the soft evening light. The cobblestone paths and ornate fa莽ades combine Spanish colonial design with Andean influences, creating a harmonious blend of styles that speaks to the city鈥檚 cultural heritage.
Dominating the square is the Arequipa Cathedral, whose imposing twin towers and sillar fa莽ade showcase the artistry of colonial builders. Completed in 1656, it is one of the city鈥檚 most iconic monuments. Nearby, the Church of the Company of Jesus, built in the 17th century, is admired for its intricate baroque fa莽ade, while the Church of La Merced, with its 18th-century towers, adds to the ensemble鈥檚 richness. Each building contributes to the plaza鈥檚 atmosphere, making it both an architectural showcase and a living gathering space.
Today, the Plaza de Armas remains the city鈥檚 main meeting point, alive with festivals, parades, and daily social life. From the celebrations of Arequipa鈥檚 anniversary to the colorful Carnival, the square continues to be where the community comes together. For visitors, it offers not only a glimpse into the past but also a vibrant introduction to the traditions that shape Arequipa today.
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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Plaza de Armas (Arms Square) on Map
Sight Name: Plaza de Armas (Arms Square)
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