The Basilica Cathedral of Arequipa is the crown jewel of the city’s Plaza de Armas, stretching across the entire north side of the square with its twin towers and neoclassical façade. Built from the city’s signature white volcanic stone, it’s one of Peru’s most important religious buildings and a must-see while in Arequipa.

Inside, you’ll find impressive altars, a grand organ imported from Belgium, and religious artifacts housed in the small cathedral museum. One of the best parts of visiting is taking the guided tour, which includes access to the rooftop, offering spectacular views of the Plaza de Armas and the surrounding volcanoes.

We visited both during the day and at night, and loved how different the atmosphere felt. By day, the details of the sillar stone shone in the sunlight; by night, the cathedral glowed golden, anchoring the plaza with a romantic, almost magical presence.

Pro Tip: Take the guided tour in the late afternoon. You’ll finish just in time for sunset from the rooftop, with the plaza bathed in warm light and the volcanoes glowing in the distance.