Sister cities of Arequipa

Arequipa is the capital and largest city of the province of Arequipa and the seat of the Constitutional Court. Also known as the White City, it is the second most populous city in Peru, with 844,407 inhabitants according to INEI projections.

Arequipa is an important commercial center of Peru and is the second most industrialized city in the country. Its industrial activity includes manufacturing and the exporting of high quality wool. The city has close trade ties with Chile, Bolivia and Brazil.

The city was founded on the 15th of August, 1540, under the name of 'Villa Hermosa de Nuestra Señora de la Asunción" in the name of the Marquis Don Francisco Pizarro. In the Royal Decree of September 22, 1541, King Charles V of Spain ordered that it be called the "City of Arequipa."

In the Colonial period it became important for its economic role and it was noted for its faithfulness to the Spanish Crown.;

In the Republican history of Peru the city acquired greater prominence in politics, being the focus of popular rebellions. Many Peruvian intellectual, political, and religious figures became prominent in this era. During this time it was awarded the title of "Heroica ciudad de los libres de Arequipa".

Its historic center is spread over an area of 332 hectares and was declared by UNESCO a "World Cultural Heritage". Its historic heritage, along with its many scenic and cultural sites, make the city a national and international tourist destination. Its religious, colonial, and republican architecture blends European and native characteristics into a unique style called "Escuela Arequipeña".