Location: Main Square of Arequipa, District of El Cercado, Province and Region of  Arequipa.

Distance from Arequipa Downtown: It is next to the main square - 0 kilometers - 0 minutes by private transportation

• Building of the first church began in 1544, but the structure was completely destroyed by an earthquake in 1604. A new building was built between 1621 and 1656, but it was destroyed in 1868 by another earthquake. The current building dates from the late 1800s and was made out of a whitish volcanic stone known as "Sillar." The towers were rebuilt in 2001 due to structural damage caused by an earthquake.
• The Basilica and the Bell Tower can be visited during the opening hours. The Cathedral is a piece of art in itself and it by many the most beatiful chatedral built in Peru. All of the ornaments and paintings only add more fine art to this beautiful structure.
• It is a pleasure to enjoy the sunset in a coffee shop or restaurant in one of the Main Square balconies facing the Main Square and the Cathedral of Arequipa.

Restrictions:

• Flash photography is not allowed.
• It is not allowed to enter the church as a tourist during Mass hours.