Day 3 - To Arequipa
Heading to the airport this morning, we board our flight to the
'White City' of Arequipa, nicknamed due to the striking white
volcanic stone known as sillar that was used to construct much of
the city.
We take a guided tour of the city this afternoon, beginning at
the Carmen Alto viewpoint where we take in impressive views across
the city, the volcanic mountains, and the surrounding rural
countryside. We continue to the traditional neighbourhood of
Yanahuara, a tranquil district known for its pearly white buildings
and Spanish-colonial churches.
In the heart of Arequipa, we visit the cathedral as well as the
enormous complex of monastic buildings that make up the Santa
Catalina Convent. Founded in 1580, the complex has a fascinating
history. Behind closed doors, the nuns - daughters of aristocrats -
paid little heed to the vows of poverty and silence. Each had her
own servant and porcelain plates, fine tablecloths, and silver
cutlery. Today, the convent has been beautifully refurbished with
period furniture and paintings, and is home to about 20 nuns who
live much more piously than their predecessors.