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The Misti volcano may be dormant, but Arequipa
wakens every morning amidst a flurry of activity. And although
the summit of the volcano is often wreathed by small clouds
of smoke, the Arequipa townsfolk -proud of their land- do
not fail to invite visitors to stroll through the streets
of white stone and traditional squares. The lordly city
of Arequipa owes the characteristic hue of its houses and
other constructions to the white sillar stone quarried in
the region.
Founded as the Villa Hermosa de Nuestra Señora de
Asunta (the Beautiful Villa of Our Lady of Asunta), Arequipa
was recognized as a city in 1541. Throughout its history,
Arequipa has also been the cradle of leading thinkers and
politicians. Today, the visitor can take in the spectacular
neo-Renaissance Cathedral, the impressive Santa Catalina
Convent, colonial mansions and museums, all of which are
reason enough to visit Arequipa. On the outskirts of the
city one can find many other attractions. The Colca Valley
is without a doubt the best-known both in Peru and abroad.
Just four hours northeast of the city, the Colca boasts
some of the most breath-taking landscapes in Peru: superb
terracing, snow-capped peaks, dizzying canyons and towns
dating back to the sixteenth century. There are 14 villages
that have been preserved in the valley since those early
colonial times, which the Spaniards used to settle the ancient
Collagua and Cabana tribes, who had previously been scattered
around the region. The visitor to the Colca Valley will
surely be fascinated by the narrow streets and richly decorated
churches. The Colca is also a haven for adventure sports
fans.
Other sites in Arequipa include the ancient Toro Muerto
rock paintings, the Imata natural stone formations and the
Cotahuasi Canyon, believed to be the world's deepest. But
what truly unites the different parts of Arequipa is without
a doubt its exquisite cuisine. Visitors should not fail
to try the local rocoto relleno (stuffed hot chili pepper),
adobo (marinated roast beef) and the spicy chupe stews,
which are simply irresistible. |
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