When planning a trip to Peru, a visit to the ancient city of Arequipa is a must. This beautiful city, nestled in the shadow of the majestic volcano El Misti, is home to many historical and cultural treasures. One of the most striking and unique of these is the Santa Catalina Monastery.
Built in the 16th century, the Santa Catalina Monastery is a stunning example of colonial architecture. The walls of the monastery are constructed from the same white volcanic stone that gives Arequipa its nickname “The White City.” The monastery is a maze of narrow streets, plazas, and brightly colored buildings, all surrounded by high walls.
The Santa Catalina Monastery was founded in 1579 by a wealthy widow named Maria de Guzman. At the time, it was a place for nuns to live, work and pray in seclusion. It was not open to the public for centuries, but in 1970 it was finally opened to visitors.
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One of the most striking features of the monastery is its vibrant colors. The buildings are painted in a variety of hues, from deep blues and greens to bright yellows and oranges. This is in contrast to the traditional monastic architecture, which is usually quite plain and austere.
The monastery is also home to a number of interesting artifacts and works of art, including sculptures, paintings, and frescoes. Many of these date back to the 16th and 17th centuries and offer a glimpse into the lives of the nuns who lived and worked there.
One of the most fascinating aspects of the Santa Catalina Monastery is its history of seclusion. For centuries, the nuns lived in strict isolation, with little contact with the outside world. They were not allowed to leave the monastery grounds and were forbidden from speaking to anyone outside of the community.
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Despite this isolation, the nuns were able to create a thriving community within the monastery walls. They built their own houses, streets, and plazas and even had their own market where they could buy and sell goods.
Today, the Santa Catalina Monastery is a popular tourist destination, drawing visitors from all over the world who come to see its unique architecture and learn about its history. For those planning a trip to Peru, a visit to this fascinating monastery is a must. It is a perfect complement to a visit to Machu Picchu and other Peru vacations destination.
The Santa Catalina Monastery is a striking reminder of the rich cultural heritage of Arequipa and Peru. It is a testament to the strength, resilience, and creativity of the human spirit and a fascinating glimpse into the lives of the nuns who called it home.
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