The cathedral has been rebuilt multiple times due to frequent seismic activity in the region.
The organ, installed in 1870, was built by the Belgian firm François Bernard Loret.
The bronze pulpit was crafted by the sculptor Rigot in France and features intricate wood and metal work.
The cathedral's foundation incorporates sillar, a porous white volcanic stone unique to the Arequipa region.
It is one of the few cathedrals in the world that remains aligned precisely with the main plaza of its host city.
The museum collection contains silver monstrances dating back to the 18th century.
The cathedral suffered significant damage during the major 2001 earthquake and underwent extensive restoration.
Unlike many colonial churches in Peru, the cathedral facade does not feature the traditional Baroque style, opting for a restrained Neoclassical aesthetic.
The Basilica Cathedral of Arequipa is the primary religious monument in the city, occupying the entire northern side of the Plaza de Armas. Constructed primarily from white volcanic ashlar, known as sillar, it is a prominent example of Neoclassical architecture with Gothic influences. The current structure dates to the 19th century after a devastating fire destroyed the original 17th-century building in 1844. It houses an extensive religious museum featuring colonial-era liturgical artifacts, vestments, and silver religious items. The cathedral features two distinct towers and a front facade that spans the full length of the main plaza. Its interior retains an impressive organ imported from Belgium and a white marble pulpit crafted in France. The structure remains the seat of the Archdiocese of Arequipa. The complex includes a courtyard and access to the roof, providing views of the city and the surrounding Misti, Chachani, and Pichu Pichu volcanoes.
The center of the Plaza de Armas provides the best angle to capture the entire horizontal length of the cathedral facade against the volcanoes.
Access the roof terrace for a unique perspective of the Plaza de Armas and the backdrop of the volcanoes.
Visit the museum portion early to ensure enough time to view the entire collection before the cathedral interior transitions to religious services.
Look for the bronze eagle on the pulpit, which was brought from France.
Do not attempt to enter the cathedral during active Mass services for sightseeing purposes.
The cathedral and museum may restrict tourist access during Sunday religious services and major liturgical holidays.
Maintain a quiet tone inside the sanctuary; shoulders and knees must be covered.
