Plaza de Armas of Arequipa
Arequipa
The Plaza de Armas of Arequipa is the main public square and foundational site of Arequipa, Peru. Established in 1540 alongside the city's founding, it serves as a cultural and historic hub surrounded by significant colonial buildings such as the Basilica Cathedral of Arequipa, the Portales de Arequipa, and several historic churches. The cathedral, constructed primarily with white volcanic stone called sillar, features a neoclassical facade with Corinthian columns and has endured multiple earthquakes and volcanic eruptions, leading to several reconstructions. The plaza itself is notable for its large bronze fountain topped with the "Tuturutu" sculpture, a local symbol with legends tied to Incan messengers. The surrounding Portales, originally the colonial town hall, now house municipal offices and display neo-Renaissance granite architecture. The plaza remains a lively center for social gatherings, celebrations, and cultural events, reflecting Arequipa's rich colonial heritage and vibrant community life.
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Consejo: Visit the Plaza de Armas in the early morning or late afternoon to enjoy pleasant light and fewer crowds. Purchasing tickets in advance is recommended for guided tours of the Basilica Cathedral. After major earthquakes, restoration efforts have improved accessibility and safety, but checking current conditions before visiting is advisable. Local vendors and cafes around the plaza offer authentic Arequipeño cuisine and crafts. The plaza is free to enter and offers discounts for students and seniors at nearby attractions.
Datos interesantes
- •The Basilica Cathedral of Arequipa is built from sillar, a white volcanic stone unique to the region.
- •The plaza's central fountain features the "Tuturutu," a copper sculpture of a small man with a trumpet, linked to local legends about Incan messengers.
- •The cathedral has survived multiple significant earthquakes, including those in 1666, 1687, 1784, and 2001, with restoration preserving its neoclassical style.
- •The Portales de Arequipa surrounding the plaza were originally the colonial town hall and now function as municipal offices.
- •The plaza was the site of public events such as bullfights, military announcements, and judicial punishments during colonial times.
Historia
Arequipa was founded on August 15, 1540, with the Plaza de Armas established as the city's central square.
The Basilica Cathedral's construction began that same year, designed initially by architect Pedro Godínez and later rebuilt several times after earthquakes and the 1600 Huaynaputina volcanic eruption.
The plaza witnessed key historical events including the elevation of Arequipa to city status by royal decree in 1541 and a devastating fire in 1844 that led to major reconstructions.
Over centuries, the plaza has evolved but remains the symbolic and administrative heart of Arequipa, reflecting its colonial past and resilience through natural disasters.
Guía del lugar
Basilica Cathedral of Arequipa1540-1656 (initial construction), 19th century (neoclassical facade), restored 2002
This neoclassical cathedral dominates the northern side of the plaza, built from white volcanic sillar stone with a facade featuring seventy Corinthian columns. It has three naves forming a Latin cross floor plan and two bell towers, one of which collapsed in the 2001 earthquake and was restored by 2002. The cathedral is the seat of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Arequipa and a prime example of colonial architecture adapted to seismic challenges.
Portales de ArequipaColonial period, with 19th-century renovations
These three large porticoes border the plaza and were historically the colonial town hall (cabildo). Built in neo-Renaissance style from granite, they now house municipal offices. The portales have served as venues for markets, official ceremonies, and public announcements throughout Arequipa's history.
Plaza Fountain and "Tuturutu" Sculpture
At the center of the plaza stands a bronze fountain topped by a copper sculpture of a small man blowing a trumpet, known locally as "Tuturutu." This figure is steeped in local myth, symbolizing a trusted Incan messenger who announced important news with his trumpet. The fountain is a focal point for visitors and locals alike.
Contacto
Teléfono: (054) 211021