Arequipa (1)

Packed full of stunning colonial architecture set around picturesque parks and plazas, Arequipa is undoubtedly among the most beautiful cities in Peru. And much like the capital Lima, there is a story behind how this colonial gem got its name, and why it was given the moniker, “The White City”.
Long before the arrival of the Spanish in the 16th century, the site was inhabited by indigenous settlers. One theory is that the Aymara were first to lay claim to the land, naming the site Ari (summit) Quipa (lies beyond). The theory holds some credibility when you consider the imposing summit of the El Misti volcano does indeed lie just beyond the city.
The other possibility is that the name came from the Inca who were known to have settled in the region. Upon assessing its fertile land and strategic location between Cusco and the sea, the fourth Inca emperor Mayta Cápac is thought to have exclaimed in his native Quechua language, “Ari qhipay” (Let’s stay here).
No one knows for sure which of these versions is true, although we do know the Spanish took a liking to the name as they decided to keep it when they founded the city in 1540.Read more