Walking Tour And Santa Catalina Monastery

After picking you up from your hotel in the historic center of Arequipa (optional), your walking tour will kick off in the charming neighborhood of San Lazaro, just 5 blocks away from the iconic Plaza de Armas of Arequipa. This colonial district is characterized by its narrow streets and houses constructed from sillar, a volcanic stone.

San Lazaro is one of the oldest areas in the city, offering a picturesque view through its quaint streets, small squares, and pristine white walls. This area was once inhabited by pre-Inca and Inca cultures and became the site for the first buildings during the Spanish conquest and the city's foundation.

This district is part of the Historic Center of Arequipa, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The tour will proceed to the Barrio del Solar, located near the River Chili, where you can stroll through lovely streets lined with traditional colonial architecture. You'll explore various areas known as Tambos, which were lodging centers for merchants during the colonial era.

The first Tambo on the itinerary is Tambo El Matadero, a seventeenth-century structure originally used for animal sacrifice. Today, approximately 30 families reside here.

The walking tour of Arequipa will then lead you to Tambo La Cabezona, a colonial complex of homes with a communal entrance dating back to the sixteenth century, once housing one of the city's first mills.

Enjoy a panoramic view of Plaza de Armas, the main gathering spot for locals and home to the Cathedral of Arequipa. This beautiful square is encircled by elegant portals and features a central bronze fountain.

After a brief walk, you'll arrive at the Santa Catalina Monastery. Founded in 1579, this vast complex spans 20,000 square meters with cloisters, patios, squares, streets, a bell tower, and a church.

During the viceroyalty, Doña Maria de Guzman, a wealthy woman, donated all her properties and chose to live as a cloistered nun. Most women here came from affluent families, and today, the Santa Catalina Convent still houses cloistered nuns.

This historic site is a photographer's dream, offering plenty of opportunities for stunning photos. Wander the ashlar streets and areas with vibrant red walls. Key highlights include the Patio del Silencio, where nuns gathered to pray and read the Bible in silence.

Be captivated by this gem in the city of Arequipa, a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site. Afterward, we will return you to your hotel (optional).