Arequipa Cathedral
A magnificent Neorenaissance Baroque cathedral, crafted from white sillar stone, dominating Arequipa's Plaza de Armas.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere
Arequipa Cathedral
Best Time
Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A magnificent Neorenaissance Baroque cathedral, crafted from white sillar stone, dominating Arequipa's Plaza de Armas.
"This is one of the most beautiful cathedrals in the world. I must say the architecture is unique."
🎯 Book Guided Tour in Advance
Tours are often mandatory for museum/rooftop access. Wait times can occur. :ticket:
☀️ Catch the Golden Hour
Visit late afternoon for stunning light on the white sillar stone. :camerawithflash:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Devil of Arequipa
Inside the Cathedral
Discover the intriguing legend of a devil sculpted into the cathedral's pulpit, a unique and chilling detail.
Rooftop Views
Cathedral Rooftop
Ascend to the rooftop for breathtaking panoramic views of the Plaza de Armas and the Misti volcano.
White Sillar Architecture
Exterior and Interior
Marvel at the stunning architecture crafted entirely from white volcanic sillar stone, a signature of Arequipa.
+1
Religious Art Museum
Cathedral Museum
Explore a collection of religious artifacts and artwork, offering insight into the cathedral's history and faith.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit
+1Entry & Tours
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Guided Tour in Advance
Tours are often mandatory for museum/rooftop access. Wait times can occur. :ticket:
☀️ Catch the Golden Hour
Visit late afternoon for stunning light on the white sillar stone.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking, especially if you explore the Plaza de Armas. :athletic_shoe:
🗣️ Spanish is Common for Tours
Guides primarily speak Spanish. If you don't, consider a translation app or focus on the visual aspects.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Guided Tour in Advance
Tours are often mandatory for museum/rooftop access. Wait times can occur. :ticket:
☀️ Catch the Golden Hour
Visit late afternoon for stunning light on the white sillar stone.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking, especially if you explore the Plaza de Armas. :athletic_shoe:
🗣️ Spanish is Common for Tours
Guides primarily speak Spanish. If you don't, consider a translation app or focus on the visual aspects.
💰 Consider Ticket Transparency
Some visitors prefer a fixed ticket price including the guide. :moneywithwings:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Arequipa Cathedral as an architectural marvel and a spiritual heart of the city. Its stunning white sillar construction and prominent location on the Plaza de Armas are frequently highlighted. While the mandatory guided tours for museum access are noted, many find them informative and worthwhile, especially for the rooftop views and unique legends.
"The Basílica Catedral de Arequipa is not just an architectural marvel — it’s a living monument to the city’s resilience, faith, and cultural identity. Whether you're a history lover, architecture enthusiast, or just wandering through Arequipa's beautiful center, this cathedral demands your time and admiration.
It’s the heart of the White City — and it absolutely feels like it."
Andreas Nielsen
"Beautiful church and plaza in the area. Recommend to go inside if you have the possibility."
Theo Maylen
"This is one of the most beautiful cathedrals in the world. I must say the architecture is unique. All made in white volcano lava stone. I did not pay any money to enter but I just went to pray. I must say you can take a private tour and walk further down into the convent, I adore the sculpture of Lucifer."
Ljubica Banic
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Arequipa Cathedral is centrally located in the Plaza de Armas, the main square of Arequipa. It's easily accessible by foot from most hotels in the city center. Taxis and local buses also frequent the area. +1
Yes, the cathedral is the centerpiece of the Plaza de Armas, surrounded by arcades, restaurants, and shops. Nearby attractions include the Santa Catalina Monastery and the historic center of Arequipa. +1
Walking around the Plaza de Armas is the best way to soak in the atmosphere. Many visitors enjoy exploring the surrounding streets and arcades after visiting the cathedral.
Yes, local buses and colectivos (shared vans) run frequently to the city center and the Plaza de Armas. It's a budget-friendly way to get around Arequipa. +1
The Arequipa Cathedral's towers are prominent landmarks visible from many parts of the city, especially from elevated viewpoints or surrounding hills.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the cathedral for prayer is often free. However, to access the museum and rooftop, a ticket is required, typically around 10 soles, which includes a mandatory guided tour. +1
While not always strictly necessary, booking in advance or arriving early can help avoid long waits for the guided tour, especially during peak season.
Opening hours can vary, but generally, the cathedral is open during daylight hours. The museum and rooftop tours have specific schedules, often starting in the morning and concluding in the late afternoon. It's best to check on-site or with local tourist information.
As a place of worship, modest dress is recommended. Shoulders and knees should be covered.
Photography is generally allowed in the main cathedral area, but it is strictly prohibited inside the museum.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
A popular legend tells of a demon who tried to destroy the cathedral but was trapped within its pulpit. You can see a sculpture of the devil there. +1
The rooftop offers spectacular panoramic views of the Plaza de Armas, the city's white sillar architecture, and the majestic Misti volcano in the background.
Many visitors find the guided tour valuable for understanding the cathedral's history, architecture, and the unique 'Devil' sculpture. Guides are often friendly and knowledgeable. +1
The cathedral is a prime example of Neorenaissance Baroque architecture, constructed almost entirely from white volcanic sillar stone, giving Arequipa its 'White City' nickname.
The cathedral is an active place of worship and often hosts special events, especially during religious holidays and Arequipa's anniversary celebrations in August.
📸 📸 Photography
The 'golden hour' around sunrise and sunset offers beautiful lighting on the white sillar stone.
The Plaza de Armas provides excellent vantage points. Rooftop terraces around the square offer iconic shots with the cathedral and Misti volcano.
Drone usage is generally restricted in urban areas and around historical monuments. It's advisable to check local regulations before flying a drone.
Its striking white sillar stone construction, intricate Baroque details, and its prominent location on the Plaza de Armas, often with the Misti volcano as a backdrop, make it highly photogenic.
Look for the unique 'Devil' sculpture, the ornate facades, the bell towers, and the grand interior arches.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1 The rooftop views from surrounding terraces are essential for iconic compositions featuring the cathedral, plaza, and Misti volcano. +1 Don't miss the intricate details of the facade and the unique 'Devil' sculpture. Remember the no-photography rule in the museum. 🏛️ History & Architecture Buffs
+1 Delve into its history through the guided tours, which offer insights into its construction, resilience, and cultural importance. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The White City's Heart: Arequipa Cathedral's Architecture
+1 The sheer scale of the cathedral, with its imposing facade and twin bell towers, dominates the Plaza de Armas, serving as a constant reminder of the city's rich history and enduring faith.Inside, the cathedral continues to impress with its grand nave, intricate carvings, and the unique 'Devil of Arequipa' sculpture nestled within a pulpit.
Visitors often highlight the rooftop access as a must-do.
+1 This panoramic view, especially during the golden hour, is a truly unforgettable sight and a prime spot for photography. +1Legends and Lore: The Devil of Arequipa
This unique detail has become a significant point of interest for visitors, drawing them to seek out the sculpture and learn more about the stories woven into the fabric of Arequipa.
Capturing Arequipa: Photography Tips
+1 The warm light accentuates the textures and details of the architecture, creating a magical atmosphere. Many visitors recommend heading to one of the rooftop terraces overlooking the plaza for the most iconic shots, often capturing the cathedral with the imposing Misti volcano in the background. +1For a different perspective, consider visiting at night. The cathedral is beautifully illuminated, offering a dramatic and romantic ambiance.
While photography is generally permitted in the main cathedral area, remember that photos are strictly prohibited inside the museum.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit