Foundation of Arequipa, homeland of illustrious Peruvians

Foundation of Arequipa, homeland of illustrious Peruvians

Ari qepay (“Yes, stay”) in Quechua or ariq qipa (“behind the peak”) in Aimara. Two phrases that historians, etymologists, linguists and translators believe give rise to the name of Arequipa.

A 'White City’ which is known for its historic center, recognized as a Cultural Heritage of Humanity by Unesco; for its traditional food, the imposing Colca Canyon and the majestic Misti volcano. A city where characters from Peruvian history were born: Deán Valdivia and his regionalist momentums; Mariano Melgar and his heartfelt poetry; Even Mario Vargas Llosa and his narrative talent, every citizen who was born –and not in vain- under the foot of the volcano, feels proud on each anniversary.

Since 1540, every August 15th is a cult for all the people of Arequipa. The festivities have changed for almost five centuries and now the city gets paralyzed when the celebrations are near. With the Arequipa carnival song in the background, you can taste the Rocoto Relleno (native chili stuffed with ground meat), Chupe de Camarones (shrimp soup made with milk), a delicious Arequipean Adobo (some pork stew) or an always refreshing Queso Helado (Frozen Cheese), while you breathe party (serenade, mass concerts, parades, among others) in every corner of the city.

But when it comes to history, nature and adventure, you cannot miss the expeditions at the 'City of Lions': from sightings of condors and excursion on the Ruta del Sillar, to being calm in the Campiña Arequipeña (the countryside) and learning more about the Petroglyphs of Toro Muerto.

Towards the 500 years of foundation (in two decades), Arequipa is growing at an accelerated rate as it is considered the second city with the highest economic activity in Peru. So there are plenty of reasons for the people of Arequipa to sing proudly, with greater intonation, every August 15th: "How pretty is my Misti, faithful guardian of my city. Arequipa beautiful, there is no other like you. Long live Arequipa, my native land", composition of Benigno Ballón Farfán, musician and icon of Arequipa history.

Aerial view of the Plaza de Armas in Arequipa, where the activities for its foundation are concentrated. Credit: Juan Manuel Olivera / PromPerú.