Attractions and Places To See in Characato - Top 18
Attractions in Characato, a traditional district southeast of Arequipa City in Peru, offer a blend of historical, cultural, and natural sites. Known for its agricultural landscape and abundant water, Characato maintains a strong local identity. Visitors can explore its main square, historic church, and traditional picanterías. The district also features natural springs and agricultural areas, providing opportunities for outdoor activities.
Best attractions and places to see in Characato
- The most popular attractions is Arequipa's Plaza de Armas and Cathedral, a historical site and religious building that serves as the founding place of the city. It is surrounded by colonial architecture and features the Arequipa Cathedral.
- Another must-see spot is Santa Catalina Monastery, Arequipa, a religious building and historical site. This 20,000-square-meter complex is a city within a city, known for its brightly colored walls and historical significance.
- Visitors also love San Camilo Market, a man-made monument and historical site. This market is the largest and most famous in Arequipa, offering a variety of local products and handicrafts.
- Characato is known for its historical sites, religious buildings, and traditional markets. These attractions offer a diverse range of experiences for visitors to explore.
- The attractions in Characato are appreciated by the komoot community, with 49 upvotes and 159 photos shared.
Last updated: July 17, 2026
Arequipa's Plaza de Armas and Cathedral
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Santa Catalina Monastery, Arequipa
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Santa Catalina is more than a monastery, a melting pot of secrets that the visitor can barely guess through its enclosures, but whose truth will remain forever within its walls.
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Church of the Society of Jesus, Arequipa
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San Francisco Square, Arequipa
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San Camilo Market
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Saint Catherine of Siena is the saint who inspired this monastery, where silence found its voice in the bright colors of its walls and in the cobbled corridors that converge on the beautiful main square. Santa Catalina is more than a monastery, a melting pot of secrets that the visitor can barely guess through its enclosures, but whose truth will remain forever within its walls.
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According to the chronicles, the most important social and religious activities were held in this space. Bullfights were even held. However, until 1868, the square was mainly the home of the city's merchants. After the earthquake (magnitude 9 on the Ritcher scale), a large part of the cathedral was damaged, as were the arches that surround the square. At that time, a process of beautification of the place began. The arcades were unified, the cathedral was improved and the merchants of the area were relocated.
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The current façade is 40 meters high and 107 meters long and, as already mentioned, occupies an entire side of Arequipa's main square. In 1868, the next earthquake destroyed the basilica; the bell towers, the portal, some arches of the façade and the altars were rebuilt faithfully. The cathedral was last damaged by an earthquake in 2001; both towers were severely damaged, but these were repaired just one year later.
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The San Camilo market is the largest and most famous in Arequipa. The "San Camilo de Lelis" monastery and the San Camilo church used to be here, both of which were destroyed by an earthquake. The market was built on this site and inaugurated in 1938. Inside, in addition to all kinds of edible products, handicrafts and various utensils, you can also see the sculptures of San Camilo, Señor del Perdón and San Pedro. The market is considered a historical monument of the city. Today it is one of the most famous tourist attractions.
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The Temple of the Company houses the most valuable paintings of Arequipa from the sixteenth century and the most remarkable Baroque altarpieces of the city. The sixty-six oil paintings form an important collection by two masters who had a significant influence on the painting of the Viceroyalty: the Jesuit monks Bernardo Bitti and Diego de la Puente.
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The Jesuit Church on the main square of the Peruvian city of Arequipa is a true gem from the colonial era. The magnificent Iglesia de la Compañía (literally "Church of the Community") is located in the southeast corner of the palm-lined Plaza de Armas and is one of the most beautiful baroque churches in all of Peru.
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Nice little square in Arequipa's old town next to the Complejo San Francisco with shady trees and benches and steps to sit down. There are also bars, restaurants and souvenir shops.
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The Monastery of Saint Catherine of the Sisters of the Order of Saint Catherine. Catalina de Siena is located in the center of the Peruvian city of Arequipa in the Andes, more than 2300 meters above sea level. The monastery and church are dedicated to St. Dedicated to Catherine of Siena. The twenty nuns who currently live in the monastery live in a side wing that is part of the cloister. You can visit most of the monastery building.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What cultural and historical sites can I explore in Characato?
In the heart of Characato, you can visit the traditional Plaza de Characato and the historic Iglesia San Juan Bautista, a colonial church dedicated to the district's patron saint. Characato is also an integral part of the "Ruta del Loncco," a cultural initiative preserving old Arequipa's traditions.
Where can I experience traditional Arequipeñan cuisine in Characato?
Characato is renowned for its traditional Arequipeñan cuisine, especially its "picanterías." These countryside restaurants offer authentic local flavors. Notable establishments include La Guardiana de Characato and La Benita de Characato.
Are there any natural attractions or outdoor activities in Characato?
Yes, Characato offers several natural attractions. You can visit the significant natural spring known as the Ojo del Milagro (Miracle Eye). Beyond this, you'll find a beautiful waterfall that joins the Canchi Mayo river. The surrounding traditional countryside and agricultural areas, with their lush vegetation and plentiful water, are ideal for hiking and enjoying the fresh air.
What kind of outdoor activities are available near Characato's attractions?
Near Characato, you can find various outdoor activities. For cycling enthusiasts, there are routes like the Ojo del Milagro loop. Hikers can explore routes such as the San Francisco Square, Arequipa – San Camilo Market loop. Mountain biking trails are also available, including the Gruta de la virgen loop.
Are there family-friendly attractions in Characato?
While Characato itself offers a tranquil, traditional experience, the wider Arequipa area, often associated with Characato in broader guides, has several family-friendly options. For instance, the Plaza de Armas and Cathedral and the San Camilo Market are popular spots for families to explore.
What is the "Ruta del Loncco" and how does Characato relate to it?
The "Ruta del Loncco" is a cultural initiative aimed at preserving the essence and local traditions of old Arequipa. Characato is an integral part of this route, highlighting its significant cultural identity and its role in maintaining the region's heritage.
What is the significance of the Ojo del Milagro?
The Ojo del Milagro (Miracle Eye) is a significant natural spring located very close to Characato. Local legend suggests its appearance is linked to a miracle involving the Virgin Mary during a severe water scarcity in 1686, making it a site of both natural beauty and local folklore.
Are there any unique scientific facilities in Characato?
Yes, Characato was chosen as the location for a Meteorological, Geophysical and Teleseismic Observatory, and an Artificial Satellite Tracking Station. This indicates its unique geographical advantages for scientific research.
What do visitors enjoy about the Santa Catalina Monastery in Arequipa?
Visitors highly recommend a guided tour of the Santa Catalina Monastery. This 20,000-square-meter complex is described as a city within a city, known for its brightly colored walls and rich history. It offers a fascinating glimpse into the lives of nuns isolated from the outside world since its founding in 1580.
What makes Arequipa's Plaza de Armas and Cathedral a must-see?
The Plaza de Armas of Arequipa is the city's founding place and one of its most important public squares. It's surrounded by colonial architecture, including the impressive Arequipa Cathedral, which has been rebuilt after earthquakes. Visitors appreciate its historical significance and the beautiful setting.
What can I find at the San Camilo Market?
The San Camilo Market is the largest and most famous market in Arequipa. It offers a wide variety of local products, handicrafts, and various utensils. It's also considered a historical monument, and you can see sculptures of San Camilo, Señor del Perdón, and San Pedro inside.
What is special about the Church of the Society of Jesus in Arequipa?
The Church of the Society of Jesus in Arequipa is considered a true gem of the colonial era. It features a magnificent carved façade, a beautiful wooden pulpit, and an old sacristy known as the 'Sixtine Chapel of Arequipa' due to its valuable paintings and remarkable Baroque altarpieces.
Is there a nice place to relax in Arequipa's old town?
Yes, San Francisco Square in Arequipa's old town is a very beautiful and inviting place to linger. It's located next to the Church of San Francisco, offering shady trees, benches, and steps to sit down, making it perfect for reading or simply watching time pass.
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