Arequipa is the colonial-era capital of Peru’s Arequipa Region.It's Peru's second most important city (afterLima), and the second most popular among tourists (afterCuzco).The city was founded on August 15, 1540 byGarcí Manuel de Carbajalas "Villa Hermosa de Nuestra Señora de la Asunción". During the Colonial period, Arequipa became highly important for its economic prosperityand for its loyalty to theSpanish Crown.
The historic center of Arequipa spans an area of 332 hectaresand is aUNESCOWorld Heritage Site.Its historic heritage, natural scenery and cultural sites make the city a major tourist destination. Its religious, colonial, and republican architectural styles blend European and native characteristicsinto a unique style called "Escuela Arequipeña".