AREQUIPA - MONASTERIO DE SANTA CATALINA

The Monastery of Santa Catalina (Monasterio de Santa Catalina) in Arequipa, Peru, is one of the most iconic landmarks in the city, often referred to as the "White City" due to its many buildings made from sillar, a white volcanic stone. The monastery, founded in 1579, is an architectural masterpiece that combines Spanish colonial style with indigenous influences.
The monastery covers an area of approximately 20,000 square meters and is often described as a "city within a city." It features a labyrinth of narrow streets, cloisters, plazas, and private cells.
Built using the region's distinctive sillar stone, the monastery exhibits stunning white walls contrasted with bright colors such as blues, oranges, and reds that decorate its interior spaces. The vivid hues and arches lend an artistic and serene atmosphere to the site.
Originally intended as a secluded space for nuns from wealthy Spanish families, Santa Catalina was a strict, closed-off community for centuries. It only opened its doors to the public in 1970, revealing its historical and artistic treasures.
The monastery is home to various religious paintings, sculptures, and artifacts that reflect the Baroque style prevalent during the Spanish colonial era. Many pieces were crafted by local indigenous artists, making it an important site for understanding the fusion of Spanish and Andean cultures.
The monastery boasts charming courtyards filled with blooming flowers, fountains, and tranquil seating areas. These spaces offer a peaceful escape and reflect the contemplative life of its former inhabitants.
Visitors often highlight the beautiful Calle Cordoba and Calle Toledo (small streets named after Spanish cities), the orange-hued Patio del Silencio, and the bell tower, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding city and nearby volcanoes like El Misti. ( visit my channel for more vides)
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