Best attractions and places to see in Mollebaya include a blend of local charm, cultural sites, and historical remnants. This district near Arequipa, Peru, features traditional architecture built from sillar volcanic stone and an agricultural landscape. Mollebaya also serves as a gateway to some of the renowned attractions of Arequipa city, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The area offers diverse points of interest for visitors.
Last updated: July 17, 2026
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This is the main square of the old town of Arequipa, with the Cathedral on one side and the Jesuit Church (the oldest church) on the opposite corner. The atmosphere is particularly beautiful in the early evening hours.
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The highlight of this museum is the body of "Juanita, the girl from Ampato". To begin with, you can see a film about the discovery and preservation of the mummy in the Andes. The first room is the introductory room, where texts and presentations about the Andean sanctuary project and the chronology of the Incas are shown. The next five rooms exhibit ceramics, metals, textiles and organic materials.
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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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The Iglesia de la Compañía is one of the numerous churches located in the Historic Center of Arequipa. It is located between the Municipality Portal and the Flores Portal. Temple erected by the Company of Jesus in the Peruvian city of Arequipa, one of the most outstanding examples of the so-called Andean baroque architecture.
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In Mollebaya, you can visit the traditional
Plaza de Armas de Mollebaya and its Church, the Iglesia Santa Ana de Mollebaya, known for its sillar stone architecture. A significant archaeological site nearby is the Petroglifos de Mollebaya Chico, featuring pre-Inca rock art from the Wari culture, depicting various motifs on large sillar rocks.
Mollebaya is part of the broader Arequipa countryside, characterized by its agricultural landscapes (Campiña Arequipeña). The district also features natural ecosystems including hills (cerros), ravines (quebradas), and pampas, which are used for recreation. For panoramic views, consider visiting Mirador de Sachaca, which offers a wonderful vista over Arequipa and its volcanoes.
The Mollebaya area is excellent for outdoor enthusiasts. You can find various cycling and mountain biking routes. For example, there are challenging MTB trails like the 'Mirador de Yanahuara loop from Arequipa' or more moderate options such as the 'Gruta de la virgen loop from Arequipa'. Cyclists can explore routes like the 'Bike loop from Arequipa' or the 'Ojo del Milagro loop'. You can find more details on these activities in the MTB Trails in Mollebaya and Cycling in Mollebaya guides.
Yes, several attractions in the wider Mollebaya and Arequipa region are suitable for families. The Arequipa's Plaza de Armas and Cathedral is a great place for a stroll and to admire colonial architecture. The San Camilo Market offers a vibrant cultural experience with various products and handicrafts. For a unique educational experience, the Museo Santuarios Andinos, home to 'Mummy Juanita', provides insights into Inca culture.
To experience local culture, visit the
Plaza de Armas de Mollebaya and its church, which showcase traditional sillar architecture. Mollebaya is also home to what is considered the largest grinding stone (batán) in Arequipa, reflecting traditional practices. Exploring the agricultural landscape (Campiña Arequipeña) offers a glimpse into rural life. For a broader cultural immersion, the San Camilo Market in Arequipa is a bustling hub of local products and crafts.
The Iglesia Santa Ana de Mollebaya at the district's Plaza de Armas is a beautiful and antique structure built with sillar stone. In nearby Arequipa, the Church of the Society of Jesus is considered one of Peru's most beautiful Baroque churches, known for its carved façade and valuable 16th-century paintings. The Arequipa Cathedral, located on the main square, is also a prominent religious landmark.
For a deep dive into the region's history, visit the Petroglifos de Mollebaya Chico, which are pre-Inca rock art dating back around 1500 years, offering a glimpse into the Wari culture. In Arequipa, the Museo Santuarios Andinos houses significant Inca artifacts and mummies, including the famous 'Mummy Juanita', providing insights into ancient Andean rituals and life.
Mollebaya is known for its traditional houses built with sillar stone and its well-maintained Plaza de Armas. It is also home to what is considered the largest grinding stone (batán) in Arequipa, a unique feature reflecting traditional agricultural practices in the region.
Many visitors to Mollebaya also explore the historic center of Arequipa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Key attractions include the Arequipa's Plaza de Armas and Cathedral, the vibrant Church of the Society of Jesus, and the impressive Santa Catalina Monastery. Other popular spots are the Yanahuara Scenic Overlook and the San Camilo Market.
Visitors appreciate the blend of local charm and historical significance. The traditional sillar architecture, the ancient petroglyphs, and the peaceful agricultural landscapes are often highlighted. The proximity to Arequipa's UNESCO World Heritage sites, with their stunning colonial buildings and vibrant cultural life, also adds to the appeal, offering a diverse range of experiences from historical exploration to scenic views.
Yes, you can visit the Molino de Sabandia, an antique water-powered mill located in the Sabandia District, which offers a glimpse into traditional engineering. For local crafts and products, the San Camilo Market in Arequipa is a large and famous market known for its variety of handicrafts and sculptures, making it a historical monument in itself.
You can visit Mundo Alpaca, a museum and breeding farm dedicated to South American camelids such as alpacas, llamas, and vicuñas. Here, visitors can learn about their wool, observe the animals, and understand their significance in the Andean culture.


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