Arequipa Origen

There are two theories about the origin of the name Arequipa. Long ago the Aymara founded this place where they built a settlement. In their language, Aymara, "ARI" means "summit" and "QUIP" put back. In fact, the majestic volcano "El Misti" is from Arequipa. The second theory says the name comes from the Inca language, Quechua. The legend tells the story of Inca Mayta Capac, the fourth Inca,traveling through the valley. A column of militaries, sacred virgins and nobles accompanied the Sapa Inca. Mayta Capac saw the establishment that was never before visited by an Inca. The beauty of this place and surprised the strategic importance as a link between the ocean and Cusco in the heart of the Andes. He said: "Ari, quipay!" translated as "Yes, stay!" This was the response to the desire ofsome of the companions to settle in this place and to develop the area as a major city in the Inca empire. Arequipa was completely destroyed in 1600 by an earthquake and volcanic eruption.
The Spanish reestablished the city on August 15, 1540. This date is still remembered by festivities in and around Arequipa with carnivals and fairs. The holidays take a week. The climax of the festival is Aug.14 with a splendid firework on the Plaza de Armas.
El Misti (the Knight) is not the only volcano around Arequipa, but the most famous and elegant in the center of two smaller volcanoes, the "Chanchani" (the Dear) and "Picchu Picchu" (the top cover ). The pressure between the tectonic plates of the Pacific Latin America and created some memorable dates in Arequipa. The earthquakes of 1687 and1868 destroyed almost every building in town. Also, the Cathedral and the Church of San Francisco were too damaged. The more of these churches are construito after 1868. The renovation of the Cathedral finished in 1898. This is perhaps the reason why the church has few frills compared to other cathedrals in Peru. The exterior of the cathedral is impressive in the Baroque style so beloved in Peru.-------------------------------------------------
Buildings in Arequipa
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the Company
A church that offered enough resistance against earthquakes is the "Company". It is unknown when this building was established. At the entrance we read 1698, but other parts of this churchare construito Jesuiata from 1654. Because of its odd style recommend a visit to this church. Do not forget to also visit Ignacio chapel is located on Plaza de Armas (see picture above, in the background is seen the volcano Chachani). The opening hours vary, the best time to visit "the Company" in the morning or afternoon.
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a city within a city:Santa Catalina
Residents and tourists can freely visit the rest of the complex, with or without a guide. Everything was beautifully renovated and the small streets and squares are full of colorful flowers and the walls are painted in fresh ink. The narrow streets brings you to the various parts of the convent passed picturesque square rooms with original furnishings. You can still smell theatmosphere of the average EDED many places, the location where the nuns were washing their clothes and extensive library with an incredible collection of books. Unfortunately the library is always open to the public.
Some visitors stay all day and melt away in the still life beyond the convent or walk in the streets and lose their way. Take time to visit this wonderful place, he will give you way tooinspiring. The convent of Santa Catalina is located on the street with the same name and is near the Plaza de Armas.
You can enjoy the hotels in Arequipa will be an unforgettable trip!
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La Recoleta
Next to Rio Chile is find the Franciscan convent of Recoleta. The original part was built from 1648 and was completely rebuilt after the earthquake...