Cathedral Museum
Explore centuries of history and art within the majestic Arequipa Cathedral, featuring jeweled treasures and breathtaking city views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Cathedral Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore centuries of history and art within the majestic Arequipa Cathedral, featuring jeweled treasures and breathtaking city views.
"The rooftop views are spectacular, and the guided tour is full of information and history about the church and city."
Cash for Tickets! 💰
Tickets are often cash-only (Peruvian Soles). Have small bills ready to avoid delays.
Tip Your Guide! 🗣️
Guided tours are highly recommended and informative. Voluntary contributions are appreciated.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Jeweled Liturgical Objects
Museum Interior
Marvel at fabulous jewelry adorned with precious stones, a dazzling display of faith and artistry.
Devil's Pulpit Legend
Museum Interior
Discover the intriguing legend of the devil's pulpit, a unique and captivating artifact steeped in local lore.
Rooftop City Views
Cathedral Rooftop
Ascend to the rooftop for spectacular panoramic views of Arequipa and the surrounding volcanoes.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Visit in Advance
Cash is King for Tickets
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Cash for Tickets! 💰
Tickets are often cash-only (Peruvian Soles). Have small bills ready to avoid delays.
Tip Your Guide! 🗣️
Guided tours are highly recommended and informative. Voluntary contributions are appreciated.
No Photos in Sacred Areas 🚫
Photography is restricted in certain areas, especially where valuable artifacts are displayed.
Rooftop Views are a Must! 📸
Don't miss the incredible city and volcano views from the cathedral's rooftop.
Tips
from all over the internet
Cash for Tickets! 💰
Tickets are often cash-only (Peruvian Soles). Have small bills ready to avoid delays.
Tip Your Guide! 🗣️
Guided tours are highly recommended and informative. Voluntary contributions are appreciated.
No Photos in Sacred Areas 🚫
Photography is restricted in certain areas, especially where valuable artifacts are displayed.
Rooftop Views are a Must! 📸
Don't miss the incredible city and volcano views from the cathedral's rooftop.
Wear Comfy Shoes! 👟
You'll be doing some walking and climbing, especially to reach the rooftop.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Arequipa Cathedral Museum for its informative guided tours, stunning rooftop views, and fascinating historical artifacts, particularly the jeweled objects and the legend of the devil's pulpit. The reasonable entry fee and passionate guides contribute to a highly recommended experience, though some note cash-only tickets and photography restrictions in certain areas.
"Amazing cathedral and museum to visit.
The jewlery are fabulous with many many precious stones ( can't take photos here)
You climb up the vathedral and can see arequipa from above.
Beautiful tour !"
Horizon Hugo
"Very good tour. Can tell the guide really loved her job, tip at the end. Tour was full of information and history about the church and city.
So many parts of the church and artifacts inside came from all over the world. The devil pulpit was the most interesting I think. They don't know how much the gold and silver pieces are worth, and that's the area where no photos are allowed.
The tour took a bit over 1 hour and guide spoke very good English and Spanish. Tours every 10 minutes or so.
As someone who's not religious, this was the most interesting church visit I've done yet."
Maddi Petro
"Very reasonable/low price entry. Mandatory tour guide that takes 30-60m is very good overall & informative. Extra bonus with this museum tour is the rooftop with spectacular views of the mountains and plaza"
Jason Parmar
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Cathedral Museum is located in the heart of Arequipa's historic center, easily accessible by foot from most hotels in the downtown area. Taxis are also readily available if you're coming from further afield.
Yes, the Arequipa Cathedral is a prominent landmark in the Plaza de Armas, making the museum within it easy to locate. Look for signs directing you to the museum entrance.
The area around the Cathedral Museum is very walkable. For longer distances, taxis are a convenient and affordable option. Many visitors find walking to be the best way to explore the historic center.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the Cathedral Museum is typically around 10 Peruvian Soles per person. It's important to note that tickets are often cash-only, so be sure to have Soles with you.
While not always mandatory, booking in advance or arriving early is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons, to ensure entry and avoid potential queues.
Some sources mention free entry on Wednesdays for certain museums in Copenhagen,
but for the Arequipa Cathedral Museum, it's generally a paid attraction. There might be a free visiting window for the main cathedral itself in the late afternoon.A guided tour is often included or highly recommended with your museum entry. While the tour itself might be free, a voluntary tip for the guide is customary and greatly appreciated.
Opening hours can vary, but the museum is generally open during daylight hours. It's best to check the most current hours closer to your visit, as they can be affected by religious services.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The museum houses a collection of religious artifacts, including jeweled liturgical objects, historical documents, and art. A notable highlight is the 'devil's pulpit' with its intriguing legend.
Photography is generally not allowed in certain areas of the museum, particularly where valuable artifacts and jewelry are displayed. Be mindful of signage and guide instructions.
Yes, guided tours are a significant part of the experience. Guides are typically very knowledgeable and passionate, offering insights into the history of the church and city.
A visit, including the guided tour, usually lasts between 30 to 60 minutes. This allows ample time to appreciate the exhibits and enjoy the rooftop views.
The 'devil's pulpit' is a unique artifact within the museum, associated with a local legend about a demon attempting to destroy the church. It's considered one of the most interesting pieces by visitors.
📸 📸 Photography
The rooftop offers spectacular panoramic views of Arequipa and the surrounding volcanoes, making it an prime photography spot.
Yes, photography is prohibited in certain areas, especially where precious artifacts and jewelry are displayed. Always respect the rules and your guide's instructions.
From the rooftop, you can capture stunning shots of the Plaza de Armas, the city's colonial architecture, and the majestic Misti volcano and other surrounding peaks.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While photography is restricted in some areas, the rooftop views offer a great opportunity for kids to see the city from above and spot the volcanoes. The tour duration is manageable for children, and the historical context can be a valuable educational component of your Arequipa trip. Remember to bring cash for tickets and consider a small tip for the guide if they engage the children well.
💰 Budget Travelers
Opting for the guided tour is highly recommended, as the guides are passionate and informative. Remember that while the tour might be 'free,' a voluntary tip is customary and greatly appreciated by the guides. The rooftop access is a significant bonus, providing incredible photo opportunities without any extra charge.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Arequipa Cathedral: A Historical Marvel
Inside, you'll find artifacts that tell stories of devotion, craftsmanship, and the global connections Arequipa has maintained. The jeweled liturgical objects are particularly breathtaking, showcasing intricate designs and precious stones that speak to the wealth and importance of the church throughout history. The museum's collection provides a unique perspective on the cultural and spiritual heritage of Arequipa, making it a must-visit for history buffs and curious travelers alike.
Beyond the museum's exhibits, the Cathedral Museum tour often includes access to the cathedral's rooftop. This vantage point offers unparalleled views of the Plaza de Armas and the iconic Misti volcano, providing a perfect opportunity for photography and a moment of reflection on the city's beauty. The combination of historical artifacts, architectural grandeur, and stunning vistas makes the Cathedral Museum a truly memorable experience.
Navigating the Cathedral Museum Experience
A key piece of advice from travelers is to tip your guide generously. While the tour might be included in the entry fee, guides often rely on these voluntary contributions, and a good guide can significantly enhance your visit. Having a small group for the tour also makes it more personal and engaging.
Practicalities like cash-only tickets are frequently mentioned, so ensure you have Peruvian Soles on hand. While photography is restricted in some areas, the rooftop views are a fantastic opportunity to capture stunning images of Arequipa. The overall consensus is that the Cathedral Museum offers excellent value for its reasonable entry price, making it a highly recommended activity for anyone visiting Arequipa.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit