The arches are carved from 'sillar,' a porous, white volcanic stone formed by the eruptions of the surrounding volcanoes.
The inscriptions on the arches, known as 'portales,' were added in the 20th century to honor the literary heritage of Arequipa.
The lookout sits at an elevation of approximately 2,300 meters above sea level.
It is a protected historical urban space within the Yanahuara district, which retains its status as a traditional Arequipan quarter despite urban expansion.
The Yanahuara Scenic Overlook is a historic viewing platform framed by a series of 19th-century sillar arches. Constructed from volcanic white stone, these arches provide a structured foreground for panoramas of Arequipa and the Misti, Chachani, and Pichu Pichu volcanoes. The site is situated within the traditional district of Yanahuara, known for its colonial architecture and narrow cobblestone streets. It serves as a central vantage point for observing the urban layout of the 'White City' against its high-altitude Andean backdrop. Inscribed into the stone arches are excerpts of prose and poetry from prominent Arequipan writers. The overlook is adjacent to the San Juan Bautista Church, which features an ornate Baroque-mestizo facade.
From the center of the arched corridor, framing the Misti volcano through the largest arch.
Visit the small plaza immediately surrounding the viewpoint to find local vendors selling traditional Arequipan cheese ice cream, known as 'queso helado'.
Explore the side streets behind the church for well-preserved examples of colonial-era Arequipan houses with traditional courtyards.
Allow time to visit the adjacent San Juan Bautista Church to observe its 18th-century stone carvings.
Do not mistake the viewpoint for a commercial center; it is a public historic space, so avoid blocking the view for others while taking photos.
