Why is Arequipa the White City? 🏛️ History and Architecture

If you’ve ever dreamed of visiting a destination in Peru full of history, culture, and unique landscapes, Arequipa should be on your list. But you may be wondering: why is Arequipa known as the White City?

In this article, we’ll reveal the origin of this curious nickname by exploring its history, colonial architecture, and some of the mysteries surrounding this gem in southern Peru.

The origin of the name: Why “White City”?

The answer lies in its streets. Arequipa gets its name from the predominant use of a very particular white volcanic stone: sillar. This material, extracted from nearby quarries, has been used since colonial times to build churches, convents, colonial houses, and monuments that today make up the historic center of Arequipa, declared a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site in 2000.

As you walk through its streets, you’ll see buildings that shine under the sun, as if carved from marble. This unique feature is what inspired the nickname “White City.”

History behind the White City

Arequipa was officially founded on August 15, 1540 by the Spaniard Garcí Manuel de Carbajal, although indigenous settlements had existed long before the arrival of the Spanish.

The use of sillar was no coincidence. The region is rich in volcanoes, and this material resistant to time and earthquakes became the ideal choice for building a lasting city. Thus was born a city that combined European influences with local techniques, resulting in a truly unique architectural style.

For centuries, Arequipa was an important religious, cultural, and economic center of southern Peru. Its wealth is reflected in iconic buildings such as:

All of them built from that white stone that glows under the Andean sky..

Mystery and legends of the White City

But Arequipa isn’t just known for its architectural beauty. Behind its white walls lie intriguing stories and mysteries passed down through generations.

One of the most famous is that of the Santa Catalina Monastery, where for centuries, nuns lived completely secluded from the outside world. Stories tell of forbidden loves, lives cut short, and spirits still roaming its cloisters.

Some also speak of secret tunnels connecting ancient buildings, or legendary creatures said to dwell near Misti Volcano, the giant that watches over the city from the horizon.

Colonial architecture and natural landscapes

In addition to the white sillar, another feature that makes Arequipa special is its natural setting. Surrounded by three volcanoes Misti, Chachani, and Pichu Pichu the city offers spectacular scenery both inside and outside its walls.

You can’t miss a visit to the Colca Canyon, one of the deepest canyons in the world, where you can observe condors flying free. Also nearby are the Volcanic Valleys, the Sillustani chullpas (if you’re curious about the Collagua civilization), and the charming town of Chivay, the main hub of the Colca tourist circuit.

Plan your trip to the White City

Visiting Arequipa means diving into a unique experience full of contrasts: between old and new, earthly and mystical, history and nature.

Here are some recommendations to make the most of your visit:

And if you want to discover all these places in comfort and safety, we offer guided tours of Arequipa specially designed for travelers like you. Just click here to explore our Arequipa tour options.

Ready to discover the magic of the White City?

Arequipa is not just another stop on your journey through southern Peru. It’s a sensory, historical, and emotional experience that will stay with you forever. Whether it’s for its colonial architecture, its rich history, or those mysteries that still spark curiosity, the White City has something special for every traveler.

Pack your backpack, jot down these tips, and get ready to explore one of Peru’s most beautiful destinations!